Zuoce Lavender vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Lavender and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Zuoce Lavender and the Outemu Milk Blue provide contrasting options for different preferences. The Zuoce Lavender is a linear switch that stands out for its exceptional smoothness and crisp, clacky sound signature, making typing a satisfying experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue is a clicky switch that offers a different tactile feedback. While the Lavender switch is categorized as 'easy-to-press' and 'clacky', the Milk Blue switch does not fall into any specific category. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, but beyond these generalities, it's important to delve deeper into the specific characteristics of each switch to determine which one would best suit your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
48g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Zuoce Lavender and the Outemu Milk Blue both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Lavender features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Milk Blue's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, the clear polycarbonate top housing of the Milk Blue is especially useful for showcasing RGB lighting, whereas the opaque POM top housing of the Lavender may not offer the same visual appeal. Although the top housings differ, both switches offer a pleasing and unique sound experience, catering to different preferences.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Zuoce Lavender and the Outemu Milk Blue also differ in material composition. The Lavender's POM bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Milk Blue's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The choice of bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience, as the bottom-out sound and feel are influenced by the qualities of the bottom housing. Despite the differences in material, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience through their unique sound profiles.
When considering how the top and bottom housings interact within a switch, it becomes clear that each material brings its own set of qualities to the overall typing experience. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. By leveraging the different characteristics of POM, polycarbonate, and nylon, the Zuoce Lavender and the Outemu Milk Blue are able to offer users a variety of tactile and auditory sensations. Whether you prefer a deeper, more muted sound or a sharper, crisper sound, both switches have something unique to offer in terms of housing materials.
Weight
The actuation force of the Zuoce Lavender linear switch is slightly lighter at 48 grams compared to the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch at 50 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Lavender is also lighter at 53 grams compared to the unknown bottom out force of the Milk Blue. This means that the Lavender switch offers a smoother typing experience with a lighter touch compared to the Milk Blue switch, which may require a bit more force to type on. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Lavender switch may be the better option. On the other hand, if a more substantial typing feel is desired, the Milk Blue switch, with its slightly heavier actuation force, may be the preferred choice. Overall, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Lavender's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the Milk Blue's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth for some users. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their respective travel distances, catering to the preferences of different individuals. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prioritize a shorter, quicker keypress or a longer, more deliberate keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
The Outemu Milk Blue 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 sound, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch offers a unique clacky sound profile that is crisp and satisfying. This sharp and snappy sound adds a tactile element to each keystroke, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch's sound qualities are unknown, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison. However, both switches offer the potential to provide an audible typing experience that can vary based on the keyboard and keycap setup chosen by the user.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Lavender linear switch boasts an easy-to-press nature that is gentle on the fingers and requires minimal force for activation. This light actuation force contributes to effortless typing and reduces fatigue during long typing sessions. The responsive and low-impact typing feel of the Lavender switch enhances the overall comfort and ease of use. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch remains unknown, making it challenging to compare directly with the Lavender switch in terms of typing experience.
In conclusion, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch stands out for its smoothness, clacky sound profile, and easy-to-press feel, delivering a satisfying typing experience. While information on the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is lacking in sound and feel descriptions, it is important to note that individual preferences play a significant role in determining the ideal switch for each user. Ultimately, both switches have the potential to provide a unique and enjoyable typing experience depending on personal preferences and setup choices.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you value a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a distinct clacky sound, then the Lavender switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky sound and a more tactile typing feel, the Milk Blue switch may be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you as you type.
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