KTT Matcha vs. Outemu Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the Outemu Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Matcha and the Outemu Milk Tea both offer tactile feedback for a satisfying typing experience. The KTT Matcha is praised for its comfortable and snappy tactility, providing a clean bottom-out sound with its long pole stem. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Tea offers a tactile typing experience without any specific standout features. While the Matcha is described as 'Stepped', 'Snappy', 'Accented', 'Clacky', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle', the Milk Tea lacks specific characteristics. Deciding between the two switches may depend on whether you prefer a switch with defined qualities like the Matcha or a more straightforward option like the Milk Tea. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Ly
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Matcha and Outemu Milk Tea switches offer distinct characteristics that impact the overall sound profile and feel of the switches. In terms of the top housing, the Matcha utilizes polycarbonate, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is also ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Milk Tea incorporates a new material called Ly, which produces a bright sound signature with resonant clacks during typing. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate top housing of the Matcha may provide a clearer and higher-pitched sound compared to the Milk Tea's Ly top housing.
The bottom housing of the switches also plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. The Matcha features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound profile. Similar to the top housing, the bottom housing's stiffness impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. On the other hand, the Milk Tea utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Matcha.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in both the KTT Matcha and Outemu Milk Tea switches influences the sound profile and typing experience. While the Matcha's polycarbonate top and bottom housings create a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, the Milk Tea's Ly and nylon housings offer a bright and resonant sound with deeper tones. Whether you prefer a crisper sound with clearer resonance or a fuller, rounder sound with resonant clacks, both switches provide distinct typing experiences based on their housing materials. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, it's evident that the Matcha is lighter in terms of force required. The Matcha has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Milk Tea has an actuation force of 45 grams. The bottom out force for the Milk Tea is unknown. The Matcha provides a lighter typing experience compared to the Milk Tea. Some users may appreciate the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Matcha for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Milk Tea may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4mm, which means that they both offer a similar typing experience in terms of key travel. This means that whether you choose the Matcha or Milk Tea switch, you can expect to feel a consistent level of key travel when typing. Both switches provide a medium travel distance, striking a balance between shallow and deep key presses. This makes them suitable for users who prefer a standard typing experience without extreme key travel lengths. In conclusion, the travel distance of both the KTT Matcha and Outemu Milk Tea tactile switches are equal, providing a similar typing experience for users.
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 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 sound, the KTT Matcha is known for its clacky nature, producing a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, there is no specific sound description available for the Outemu Milk Tea switch. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
Regarding feel, the Matcha switch offers a stepped sensation, providing a tactile experience with two stages during the keystroke. It is also described as snappy, meaning it is highly responsive and lively to type on. Additionally, the Matcha switch is seen as accented, striking a balance between tactility and smoothness, making it suitable for various typing tasks. The switch is also noted to have a feathery feel, requiring minimal finger exertion and reducing fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. In contrast, there is no specific feel description available for the Outemu Milk Tea switch.
In conclusion, the KTT Matcha tactile switch stands out for its clacky sound profile, stepped and snappy feel, as well as its accented and feathery tactility. While specific descriptions for the Outemu Milk Tea switch are unavailable, based on the given information, it can be inferred that the Matcha switch offers a unique and enjoyable typing experience with its combination of distinct tactile feedback and sound characteristics. If seeking similar results to the Matcha, the Outemu Milk Tea switch may also provide a satisfying typing experience, but individual preferences may vary based on personal preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a light actuation force and a snappy, clean bottom-out sound, the Matcha may be the choice for you. Its stepped, snappy, and feathery feel can enhance your typing experience, especially for extended sessions. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a different bottom-out force and sound profile, the Milk Tea may be worth trying out. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what feels best for your typing needs.