KTT Laurel vs. PH Studio Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Laurel and PH Studio Milk Tea mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features and benefits to cater to different preferences. The KTT Laurel is praised for its medium-light linear switch design with a full POM housing, providing a balance of responsiveness and comfort. It offers a subtly low-pitched sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea switch, made by BSUN, stands out with its high-pitched yet muted sound profile, creating a harmonious blend of presence and subtlety. With a bottom-out force of just 43.5g and the use of Ly for the stem material, the Milk Tea switch is geared towards prolonged typing sessions with effortless keystrokes. While both switches offer their own unique qualities, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile, typing experience, and design. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22m spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
The KTT Laurel and the PH Studio Milk Tea both feature POM top and bottom housings, which are known to create a pleasing and unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted. This similarity suggests that the overall sound experience of typing on these switches may be quite comparable. However, if the top and bottom housings differ for a specific switch, it is likely that the qualities of each housing material will be distributed between the top and bottom of the switch, impacting the overall typing experience differently.
In terms of the individual characteristics of the POM housing material, both the Laurel and the Milk Tea offer a sound profile that is distinctive and satisfying to many users. The deeper sound produced by POM housings can provide a more mellow and muted typing experience, which may be preferred by those looking for a quieter switch option. Additionally, the unique acoustic properties of POM can contribute to a more pleasant typing sound overall, enhancing the overall user experience.
While both the Laurel and the Milk Tea utilize POM top and bottom housings in their construction, it is important to note that the specific design and manufacturing processes of each switch may still result in slight variations in sound and feel. It is likely that the bottom housing will have a more pronounced impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing may influence the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel, sound profile, and overall user experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Laurel linear switch and PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, it is evident that both switches are on the lighter side in terms of force required. The Laurel has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Milk Tea has an actuation force of 37.5 grams and a bottom out force of 43.5 grams. Both switches provide a relatively light typing experience, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing for extended periods. This lighter weight can be beneficial for reducing fatigue during long typing sessions or gaming marathons. However, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, these switches may not provide enough resistance. In such cases, it may be advisable to consider switches with heavier actuation and bottom out forces to meet their preferences.
Travel distance
The KTT Laurel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Milk Tea switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Laurel switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for their faster response times. However, if you prefer a switch with a bit more depth and tactile feedback, the Milk Tea switch might be a better option for you. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness or a more substantial key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Laurel linear switch is known for its subtly low-pitched profile, providing a more mellow and bass-heavy tone. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offers a unique auditory blend with a higher-pitched sound that still maintains a muted essence. This creates a gentle balance between presence and subtlety. So, if you prefer a low-pitched sound profile, the Laurel switch would be the better choice, whereas if you prefer a more clacky and high-pitched sound, the Milk Tea switch would be more suitable.
In terms of feel, the KTT Laurel linear switch is described as snappy, offering a super responsive typing experience. This is likely due to its longer pole design and full POM housing, providing a more lively feel while typing. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch is described as polished and silky, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. If you prefer a snappy and responsive typing experience, the Laurel switch would be the way to go. However, if you prioritize smoothness and minimal resistance when pressing keys, the Milk Tea switch would be the better option.
Overall, the KTT Laurel linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Laurel switch provides a low-pitched sound profile and a snappy typing experience, while the Milk Tea switch offers a higher-pitched sound and a polished, silky feel. Depending on your preference for sound and typing feel, you can choose between the two switches to customize your mechanical keyboard to your liking. Ultimately, both switches are high-quality choices that will provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the KTT Laurel linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you prefer a low-pitched sound profile and a snappy feel, the Laurel switch may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a high-pitched, clacky sound with a polished and silky feel, the Milk Tea switch could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire. Whether you prioritize comfort, responsiveness, or auditory experience, both switches offer unique qualities to enhance your mechanical keyboard setup.
Mentioned in this article
