Durock Light Tactile vs. PH Studio Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Durock Light Tactile and the PH Studio Milk Tea. The Light Tactile switch from Durock is known for its gentle tactility, offering a unique typing experience with a soft and smooth feel. On the other hand, the Milk Tea linear switch from PH Studio boasts a high-pitched sound combined with a muted essence, providing a delicate balance between presence and subtlety. While the Light Tactile switch is ideal for those who prefer a softer tactile feedback, the Milk Tea switch is perfect for users looking for a quieter 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
52g
Actuation force
37.5g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and PH Studio Milk Tea switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different sound profiles. The Light Tactile's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, thanks to its relatively stiff nature. In contrast, the Milk Tea's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. However, both switches prioritize sound quality with their top housings, making them ideal choices for users who value acoustics in their typing experience.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Light Tactile features a nylon bottom housing that creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature. Similarly, the Milk Tea's POM bottom housing contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile. Despite using different materials, both switches aim to enhance typing sound by absorbing more sound with their softer plastic bottom housings. This shared focus on creating a rich and immersive typing experience demonstrates a commitment to quality and user satisfaction in both switches.
Overall, while the Durock Light Tactile and PH Studio Milk Tea switches differ in their housing materials, they both offer unique advantages that cater to distinct sound preferences. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound profile from the Light Tactile's polycarbonate housing or a deeper, muted sound from the Milk Tea's POM housing, both switches strive to deliver a premium typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual sound preferences and the desired typing feel, as each housing material brings its own set of characteristics to the table.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, it is evident that the Milk Tea switch is lighter in both aspects. The Light Tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy in comparison. In contrast, the Milk Tea switch boasts a lighter actuation force of 37.5 grams and a bottom out force of 43.5 grams, providing a more gentle typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Milk Tea switch would be the more suitable option. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial push feel, the Light Tactile switch would be the better choice. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches would depend on personal preference and typing style, with the lighter Milk Tea switch offering a more effortless typing experience in comparison to the heavier Light Tactile switch.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Light Tactile switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea switch, it is evident that the Light Tactile has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Milk Tea's 3.6 mm. The Light Tactile offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a deeper key press sensation, which may be preferred by those looking for a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Milk Tea's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers or individuals seeking quicker response times. Both switches offer unique advantages, with the Light Tactile catering to those who enjoy a deeper key press and the Milk Tea catering to those who prefer a quicker and more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and typing needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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 Durock Light Tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offers a unique combination of a clacky, high-pitched, marbly, and resonant sound, creating a sharp and crisp auditory experience. The sound produced by each switch is influenced not only by the switch itself but also by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Light Tactile switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with gentle tactility that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone of typing characteristics. Similarly, the Milk Tea switch also provides a polished and silky feel, ensuring smooth key travel and reduced friction during typing. The use of high-quality materials and factory lubing contribute to the overall refined typing experience of both switches.
Overall, while the Durock Light Tactile and PH Studio Milk Tea switches have distinct sound and feel profiles, they both offer a premium typing experience with attention to detail in their design and construction. Whether you prefer a gentle tactility with a neutral sound or a more unique auditory blend with a high-pitched and clacky sound, both switches are excellent choices for enthusiasts looking for a top-notch typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the Light Tactile and Milk Tea switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Light Tactile switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prefer a gentle tactility and a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Light Tactile switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a gentle balance between presence and subtlety, with a light bottom-out force and a unique auditory blend, the Milk Tea switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you are looking for, whether it be a soothing and angelic tactility or a smooth and refined typing feel.
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