TKC Kiwi vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the TKC Kiwi and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TKC Kiwi, a tactile switch, to the Outemu Milk Blue, a clicky switch, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard users. The Kiwi Switches are well-regarded for their tactile feedback, offering a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, enhancing the typing experience for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile response. Additionally, the Kiwi switches provide a satisfyingly snappy sound profile that adds to the immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue switches are clicky switches that deliver a distinctive clicking sound with each keystroke, which can be appealing to users who prefer auditory feedback while typing. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that make them desirable in different scenarios. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TKC Kiwi and the Outemu Milk Blue, it is clear that they each offer unique characteristics that impact the sound and feel of the switch. The Kiwi features a UHWMPE top housing, which provides a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks during typing. In contrast, the Milk Blue utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials offer a clear and resonant sound, the UHWMPE may provide a slightly different tone than the polycarbonate due to their inherent properties.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Kiwi and Milk Blue again diverge in their material choices. The Kiwi utilizes UHWMPE for its bottom housing, mirroring the qualities of the top housing with a bright and resonant sound signature during typing. On the other hand, the Milk Blue employs a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption compared to the UHWMPE, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall.
Overall, while the housing materials used in the TKC Kiwi and Outemu Milk Blue switches differ, they both contribute to creating a unique typing experience. The UHWMPE and polycarbonate top housings offer distinct sound profiles, with the UHWMPE potentially providing a slightly brighter tone compared to the sharper sound of polycarbonate. Similarly, the UHWMPE and nylon bottom housings affect the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, with the UHWMPE providing a bright and resonant sound while the nylon delivers a deeper and fuller sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer high-quality materials that enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Kiwi is lighter with an actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Milk Blue's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Kiwi is heavier at 67 grams, while the Milk Blue's bottom out force is unknown. The actuation force of the Kiwi is lighter, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Milk Blue offers a slightly heavier actuation force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who enjoy a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing force and experience.
Travel distance
Both the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance between the two switches ensures that users can expect consistent keypress experiences in terms of how far each key travels when activated. While other differences may exist between the two switches, their travel distance remains the same.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00, whereas the Outemu Milk Blue comes in at $3.10.
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 Kiwi tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a satisfyingly snappy and immersive typing experience. On the other hand, information on the sound quality of the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is unknown. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Kiwi tactile switch is described as stepped, accented, and polished, providing a medium-strong bump at the top of each key press for a smooth and refined typing experience. The Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch's feel is unknown. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience with their tactile feedback, but the specific feel of the Milk Blue switch remains undisclosed.
Overall, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch offers a satisfyingly snappy sound profile and a smooth and refined typing experience with its medium-strong bump and stepped, accented, and polished feel. While details on the sound and feel of the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch are unknown, it's important to consider personal preferences and intended use when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, selecting a switch that aligns with your typing preferences and needs will result in an optimal typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, the choice ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with a satisfying bump and a smooth typing experience right out of the box, then the Kiwi switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy clicky switches with a lighter actuation force and a distinct audible feedback, the Milk Blue switch may be more to your liking. Consider the sound and feel descriptions provided to further guide you in making the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so choose based on what suits your typing style and preferences best.
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