PH Studio Milk Tea vs. Cherry MX Orange
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Cherry MX Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly impact your typing experience, and the PH Studio Milk Tea and Cherry MX Orange linear switches are two noteworthy options each bringing their own unique characteristics to the table. The PH Studio Milk Tea, manufactured by BSUN, is celebrated for its distinct auditory profile, offering a high-pitched yet muted sound that strikes a harmonious balance for users who appreciate a subtle auditory feedback while typing. Its Ly stem material ensures a smooth keystroke feel, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a silky and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Orange switches, which are a revival of the original sought-after MX Orange switches, embody a trusted reputation with enhancements that cater to the demands of today’s users. Though more understated in sound and feedback, they are designed to provide reliability and performance, appealing to users who favor consistent and responsive keystrokes. Both switches have their merits depending on your typing preferences and environment. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37.5g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The PH Studio Milk Tea switches utilize POM (Polyoxymethylene) for both their top and bottom housings, while the Cherry MX Orange switches feature nylon for the same housings. One of the key distinguishing factors between these materials is their inherent acoustic properties. POM is known for creating a distinctly pleasing sound profile that leans towards a deeper and more muted tone. On the other hand, nylon, while also generating a deeper sound, contributes to a full-bodied acoustic signature that is characterized by a rounder and duller quality. Despite these differences, the overall sound produced by both switch types remains quite similar, primarily due to their mutual capability in absorbing sound effectively.
In terms of sound absorption, both POM and nylon exhibit properties that enhance the acoustic experience when typing. The POM material used in the Milk Tea's housing absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a pleasantly subdued auditory experience. Similarly, the softer nylon used in the Cherry MX Orange serves to diminish the sharpness of the sound generated during keystrokes, thus leading to a more muted and resonant auditory feedback. Therefore, while the materials differ in composition, the resultant sound experiences share common roots in their ability to create a deeper sound, which can lead to similar keystroke acoustics when typing on both switches.
It is important to note that the way sound is affected by these housings also relates to the physical interactions involved in typing. In the case of the Milk Tea switches, the combined advantages of POM in both the top and bottom housings amplify the qualities of the sound produced with each keystroke, contributing to a cohesive auditory experience. Conversely, the Cherry MX Orange switches exhibit a split between the material properties of their top and bottom housings, with the nylon material excelling in creating a fuller sound that is predominantly felt during bottoming out. Consequently, whether through the uniformity of POM or the distinct characteristics of nylon, the end results can lead to comparable typing sounds, creating an enjoyable experience regardless of the material.
Weight
The PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch demonstrate distinct differences in their actuation forces. The Milk Tea switch has a notably lighter actuation force of 37.5 grams, making it suitable for users seeking a less strenuous typing experience during long sessions, whether for work or gaming. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange linear switch requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial tactile feel. While the bottom out force for the Milk Tea switch is measured at 43.5 grams, the bottom out force for the MX Orange switch is not specified, which raises some questions about its overall performance. Nevertheless, the PH Studio switch is lighter overall, providing ease of use, while the Cherry MX Orange offers a firmer action for individuals who enjoy a stronger push during input. Therefore, users' preferences will largely dictate which switch better suits their typing or gaming style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, we find a clear distinction between the two. The Milk Tea switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cherry MX Orange measures 4.0 mm. This makes the Milk Tea switch the shorter option, catering to users who favor a more responsive feel, ideal for fast-paced gaming. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Orange with its longer travel distance of 4.0 mm provides a more pronounced depth, which some users may find offers a more satisfying typing experience. Therefore, if you're looking for quicker responsiveness, the Milk Tea is the preferable choice, but if you appreciate a more hearty depth, the Cherry MX Orange would be the way to go.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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 auditory characteristics of the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch create a distinctive experience for the typist. It produces a fairly high-pitched sound that strikes a balance between being prominent and subtle, making it enjoyable for those who prefer a more refined auditory feedback without being overly loud. This switch also encapsulates a clacky and marbly quality, which adds a crispness and depth to each keystroke, reminiscent of high-frequency sounds resonating in a clean and sharp manner. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switches do not have specific sound characteristics disclosed, leaving their auditory profile more ambiguous and perhaps more traditional compared to the Milk Tea's unique high-pitched resonance.
In terms of tactile feedback, the Milk Tea switch stands out for its polished and silky feel, indicating a smooth and refined typing experience. This enhanced smoothness is achieved through careful design and material use, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience with minimal resistance. The lack of defined tactile properties for the Cherry MX Orange leaves a gap in comparison, suggesting that while it may still provide a satisfying typing experience, the level of smoothness and refinement may not be as pronounced as with the Milk Tea.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offers a harmonious blend of both sound and feel, creating an engaging typing experience characterized by high-pitched auditory feedback and a polished, silky touch. Meanwhile, the Cherry MX Orange switches evoke a more traditional sound experience that remains undefined but may still provide satisfactory performance for many users. For those seeking a unique auditory and tactile experience, the Milk Tea stands out, while the MX Orange may appeal to users looking for familiar, albeit less specified, options. If users prioritize a crisp sound and smooth keystrokes, they’ll find the Milk Tea more appealing, but the MX Orange could still meet their basic typing needs comfortably.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange comes down to your personal preferences in typing experience and sound. If you prefer a lightweight switch that offers a smooth, effortless feel along with a unique auditory experience characterized by a crisp, high-pitched, and resonant sound, the Milk Tea switch is an excellent choice. It's particularly well-suited for those who value a polished and silky typing experience, making it ideal for both gaming and day-to-day typing tasks where feedback and sound play a significant role. On the other hand, if you're looking for a classic and highly reliable switch with a rich history, the Cherry MX Orange would be more to your liking. Its reissued lineage brings together a blend of nostalgia and modern enhancements, making it a solid option for users who appreciate the traits that longtime MX fans cherish. Ultimately, your choice should reflect how you prioritize the auditory profile and tactile feel in your typing, ensuring that your mechanical keyboard experience aligns perfectly with your needs and preferences.
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