KTT Matcha vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Matcha and Outemu Milk Blue offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences. The KTT Matcha stands out as a tactile switch that provides a comfortable and snappy typing experience, with a clean bottom-out sound thanks to its long pole stem. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue is a clicky switch that offers a distinct audible feedback with every key press. While the Matcha is praised for its stepped, snappy, and accented feel, the Milk Blue lacks specific descriptors. Each switch has its own strengths and appeals, making it important to consider your typing preferences before making a choice. 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
40g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Matcha and the Outemu Milk Blue switches share similarities in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic that results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows for a clear and resonant sound profile. However, the Matcha also features a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Milk Blue incorporates a nylon bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Milk Blue creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Matcha's polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of sound profile, the nylon bottom housing of the Milk Blue offers a distinct typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound compared to the crisper and sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the KTT Matcha. This difference is due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound and creates a rounder sound profile. On the other hand, both switches benefit from using polycarbonate top housings, which enhance the overall sound profile with their stiffness and clarity. The impact of the housing materials is felt differently depending on whether you are pressing down on a key, where the bottom housing's qualities come into play, or releasing a key, where the top housing's qualities are more pronounced.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Matcha and the Outemu Milk Blue hinges on the desired sound profile and typing experience. The Matcha's polycarbonate top and bottom housings offer a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. Conversely, the Milk Blue's combination of a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, making it a preferred choice for those seeking a rounder sound with more sound absorption. Both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in creating a unique typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Matcha is the lighter of the two switches. The Matcha has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a relatively light switch. On the other hand, the Milk Blue has an actuation force of 50 grams, which is heavier than the Matcha. However, the bottom out force of the Milk Blue is unknown, so a direct comparison cannot be made in this aspect. For users who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Matcha would be the better option, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may gravitate towards the heavier actuation force of the Milk Blue. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either switch, you will experience a similar amount of travel from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance allows for consistent typing experiences regardless of which switch is being used. Overall, both switches offer a standard travel distance, providing a familiar feel for users who prefer a 4mm travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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
Overall, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is known for its comfortable, snappy tactility and clean bottom-out sound, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a responsive typing experience with a distinct sound profile. On the other hand, not much is known about the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch in terms of sound and feel. However, based on the available information, it appears that the Matcha may offer a more nuanced tactile experience with various descriptors such as stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle, catering to different preferences in typing feel. As for sound, the Matcha is described as clacky, providing a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. In comparison, the sound profile of the Milk Blue remains unknown. In conclusion, while the Matcha offers a well-rounded tactile experience with a unique sound profile, the Milk Blue may also provide similar results to those seeking a clicky switch option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and sound characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, consider your typing preference and environment. If you enjoy a comfortable, snappy tactility with a clean bottom-out sound and a light actuation force, the Matcha may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a sharp and percussive sound, the Milk Blue could be a better fit. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics, so the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference in typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
