KTT Laurel vs. Outemu Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the Outemu Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Laurel and the Outemu Milk Tea mechanical keyboard switches, we can see distinct differences in their design and features. The Laurel is a linear switch, known for its medium-light actuation force and full POM housing, providing a responsive yet comfortable typing experience. It also boasts a short travel distance and a long pole design, striking the perfect balance between responsiveness and comfort. On the other hand, the Milk Tea is a tactile switch, with a lack of specific features mentioned in the information provided. While the Laurel offers a low-pitched sound profile and snappy feel, the Milk Tea's characteristics remain a mystery. When considering which switch to choose, these general pointers may guide your decision-making process; 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22m spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Laurel and Outemu Milk Tea switches offer distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile and feel of the switches. The POM top housing of the Laurel creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Ly top housing of the Milk Tea produces a brighter and resonant clack when typing. In contrast, the POM bottom housing of the Laurel contributes to a pleasing and unique sound profile, similar to the top housing, whereas the nylon bottom housing of the Milk Tea results in a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer and sound-absorbing nature.
While both switches have different top and bottom housing materials, the impact of each material is felt in different aspects of the typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing material, whether it be POM for the Laurel or nylon for the Milk Tea, influence the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed. On the other hand, the top housing material, whether it be POM or Ly, plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite the differences in sound profiles and feel between the two switches, they both offer a unique typing experience based on the combination of their top and bottom housing materials.
In terms of housing materials, the KTT Laurel and Outemu Milk Tea switches showcase the versatility and impact that different materials can have on the sound and feel of a switch. While the POM and Ly housings create distinct sound profiles for the Laurel and Milk Tea respectively, the nylon bottom housing in the Milk Tea provides a deeper and fuller sound compared to the POM bottom housing in the Laurel. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the combination of top and bottom housing materials, with each material contributing to the overall sound and feel when typing on the switches.
Weight
The KTT Laurel linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch with an actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force, with the Laurel requiring 50 grams and the Milk Tea not having a specified value. The Laurel switch provides a lighter typing experience, making it suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the Milk Tea switch offers a slightly heavier actuation force for those looking for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The KTT Laurel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Milk Tea has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Laurel. A 0.5 mm difference may not seem like much, but it can impact the feel and response of the switch. For those who prefer a faster response time, the Laurel with its shorter travel distance may be the preferred option. On the other hand, for users who enjoy a more substantial keypress and feel, the Milk Tea with its longer travel distance could be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the typing experience desired.
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 Outemu Milk Tea comes in at $3.10 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
When it comes to the sound produced by the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, we can observe a stark difference. The Laurel switch offers a subtly low-pitched sound profile, which typically results in a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Milk Tea switch is unknown, so it is difficult to directly compare the two in terms of sound. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the KTT Laurel linear switch is described as snappy, providing a super responsive typing experience. This attribute is often attributed to the longer or dual-staged springs present in the switch, making typing feel more alive and engaging. Unfortunately, the tactile feel of the Outemu Milk Tea switch is unknown, so it is challenging to make a direct comparison in terms of feel.
In conclusion, the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Laurel switch delivers a low-pitched sound profile and a snappy typing experience, creating a balance of responsiveness and comfort. While the sound and feel of the Milk Tea switch remain unknown, it is important for newcomers to consider various factors such as personal preferences, typing style, and desired keyboard aesthetics when selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch for their setup. Ultimately, whether choosing the Laurel or Milk Tea switch, both options are sure to provide a unique and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, consider your preference for switch type and feel. If you prioritize a light linear switch with a medium-bottom out force and a low-pitched sound profile, the Laurel may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a unique name and unavailable bottom out force information, the Milk Tea could be the switch for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference in terms of switch type, sound, and feel.
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