TKC Kiwi vs. PH Studio Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the TKC Kiwi and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the TKC Kiwi, a tactile switch, and the PH Studio Milk Tea, a linear switch. The Kiwi switches are known for their tactile feedback, offering a medium to medium-strong bump with a satisfyingly snappy sound profile. They come lightly factory lubed, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switches offer a unique auditory experience with a high-pitched yet muted sound, creating a gentle balance between presence and subtlety. The accessible bottom-out weight of 43.5g and the use of Ly stem material make it ideal for prolonged typing sessions, ensuring every keystroke feels effortless. While the Kiwi switch excels in tactile feedback, the Milk Tea switch prioritizes a smooth and effortless typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
37.5g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TKC Kiwi and the PH Studio Milk Tea both offer unique sound profiles, but with distinct differences. The Kiwi features UHWMPE top and bottom housings, known for their bright sound signature and resonant clacks when typing. In contrast, the Milk Tea utilizes POM top and bottom housings, creating a deeper and more muted sound profile. This contrast in sound characteristics can greatly influence the overall typing experience for users of each switch.
Despite the differences in sound profiles, both the Kiwi and the Milk Tea share a commonality in their utilization of newer materials for switch housings. This modern approach to switch construction allows for enhanced sound quality and performance compared to traditional materials. While the UHWMPE top and bottom housings of the Kiwi produce a bright and resonant sound, the POM top and bottom housings of the Milk Tea offer a unique and pleasing typing experience with deeper tones. Overall, the use of these newer materials elevates the performance of both switches.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to note that each component plays a distinct role. The bottom housing material has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings can result in a more nuanced and dynamic typing experience for users of both the TKC Kiwi and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preferences in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The TKC Kiwi tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 43 grams and a higher bottom out force of 67 grams compared to the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 37.5 grams and a bottom out force of 43.5 grams. The Kiwi provides a more substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy forces, while the Milk Tea offers a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to users who prefer either a heavier or lighter feel. The actuation and bottom out forces play a crucial role in determining the typing experience and feel of the switches, allowing users to customize their keyboard to suit their preferences.
Travel distance
The TKC Kiwi tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. While both switches fall within the range of standard travel distances, the Kiwi offers a slightly deeper press compared to the Milk Tea. For those who prefer a more responsive feel and faster response times, the Milk Tea may be the preferred option due to its shorter travel distance. However, individuals who enjoy a deeper and more satisfying keypress may lean towards the Kiwi with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Milk Tea has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milk Tea for $4.00.
The TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral tone, providing a bass-heavy and mellow sound that is suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch features a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, with a sharp and crisp tone that adds a touch of brightness to each keystroke. The Milk Tea switch also has a marbly and resonant quality, creating a clean and sharp auditory experience. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Kiwi switch has a stepped and accented tactility, offering a medium bump at the top of each key press for a satisfying typing experience. The polished finish of the switch contributes to a smooth and refined keystroke, reducing friction and enhancing key travel. Similarly, the Milk Tea switch is described as polished and silky, providing an exceptionally smooth typing feel with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This characteristic makes the Milk Tea switch ideal for extended typing sessions, catering to users who prioritize comfort and ease of use.
Considering all the available information, both the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Kiwi switch delivers a low-pitched and neutral sound with stepped and accented tactility, the Milk Tea switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound alongside a polished and silky typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and tactile feel, ensuring that users can find the perfect match for their typing needs.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when considering whether to choose the TKC Kiwi tactile switch or the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, you should keep in mind your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a medium to medium-strong tactile bump with a snappy sound profile, then the Kiwi switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force with a unique auditory blend and easy typing experience, the Milk Tea switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and sound profile (Kiwi) or a smooth and effortless typing experience (Milk Tea). Both switches offer their own distinct characteristics, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in choosing the one that best suits your typing style.
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