Everglide Lightning Silver V3 vs. PH Studio Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the PH Studio Milk Tea mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Lightning Silver V3 is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, providing a distinct typing experience that is silky and seamless. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch offers a unique auditory blend with a high-pitched sound accompanied by a muted essence, striking a gentle balance between presence and subtlety. The Milk Tea switch is designed with prolonged typing sessions in mind, featuring a lightweight bottom-out force and ease-enhancing stem material. 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
48g
Actuation force
37.5g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
Overall, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and PH Studio Milk Tea switches differ in their housing materials. The Lightning Silver V3 boasts a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Milk Tea features a POM top and bottom housing, producing a deeper and more muted sound. These different materials result in distinct sound qualities and tactile experiences when typing or gaming.
Despite their differences, both switches offer unique advantages based on their housing materials. The polycarbonate housing of the Lightning Silver V3 provides a clear and resonant sound profile, especially beneficial for users wanting to showcase RGB lighting. On the other hand, the POM housing of the Milk Tea gives a more pleasing and unique sound experience, leaning towards deeper tones. While they may have varying sound profiles, both switches offer high-quality construction and performance for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
In terms of feel and sound distribution, the impact of the housing material is felt differently in each switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when a key is released. This highlights how the choice of housing material can not only affect the overall sound profile but also impact the typing or gaming experience for users of mechanical keyboards such as the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and PH Studio Milk Tea.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch to the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, there are noticeable differences in the actuation force and bottom out force. The Lightning Silver V3 has a higher actuation force of 48 grams and a higher bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more medium resistance compared to the Milk Tea. In contrast, the Milk Tea has a lower actuation force of 37.5 grams and a lower bottom out force of 43.5 grams, making it a lighter option overall. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Milk Tea would be the better choice, as it allows for longer periods of typing without as much fatigue. However, for users who enjoy a more substantial push feel, the Lightning Silver V3 would provide a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, it can be seen that the Lightning Silver V3 has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Milk Tea has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for their faster response times. However, the difference of 0.2 mm between the two may be noticeable to some users. For those seeking a more responsive feel, the Lightning Silver V3 may be the preferable option, while those who prefer a slightly deeper press may lean towards the Milk Tea. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preference for travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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
The Lightning Silver V3 by Everglide is recognized for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Milk Tea linear switch from PH Studio offers a unique blend of high-pitched sound with a muted essence, creating a gentle balance between presence and subtlety. While both switches share a clacky sound characteristic, the Lightning Silver V3 tends to lean towards a crisper and brighter sound, while the Milk Tea offers a more nuanced and refined auditory experience with elements of marbly and resonant tones.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Lightning Silver V3 is described as silky, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimized resistance during key presses. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch is praised for its polished feel, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in sleek key travel and reduced friction. Both switches offer a premium typing experience with a focus on smoothness and ease of typing, catering to users who value a comfortable and effortless typing feel during prolonged use.
Overall, if you are looking for a linear switch with a distinct high-pitched and clacky sound profile, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more balanced auditory experience with a touch of elegance and muted tones, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch might be the ideal option for you. Both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when considering whether to choose the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch or the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, you should consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound with a medium bottom out force, then the Lightning Silver V3 may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique auditory blend with a lighter bottom out force and a polished, silky feel, then the Milk Tea switch could be more suitable for your needs. Both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style.
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