PH Studio Milk Tea vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Milk Tea and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the PH Studio Milk Tea and the KTT Orange mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note that both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Milk Tea linear switch stands out for its high-pitched yet muted sound, with a bottom-out force of 43.5g designed for prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch features a bouncy feel with a polycarbonate milky top housing and factory-lubed smoothness for a frictionless typing experience. Both switches have their strengths – the Milk Tea for its balanced auditory blend and comfortable typing experience, and the KTT Orange for its bouncy feel and smooth key travel. 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
37.5g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the PH Studio Milk Tea and the KTT Orange lies in the type of plastic used. The Milk Tea features a POM top and bottom housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Orange utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This difference in sound profile is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound overall. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting for added visual appeal.
While both the Milk Tea and the Orange have unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, they both excel in providing a pleasant typing experience. The POM housing of the Milk Tea creates a soothing and deep sound when typing, while the polycarbonate housing of the Orange offers a sharper and more distinct typing sound. Despite these differences, both switches aim to enhance the overall typing experience for users. Additionally, the choice of housing material can impact the aesthetic appeal of the switch, with the translucent polycarbonate of the Orange allowing for customizable RGB lighting options that can add a visually appealing touch to the keyboard.
Overall, the choice between the POM housing of the Milk Tea and the polycarbonate housing of the Orange comes down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics. Both housing materials have their own unique qualities that contribute to the overall typing experience. The POM housing of the Milk Tea offers a deeper and more muted sound, while the polycarbonate housing of the Orange provides a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for more customization options with RGB lighting. Whether you prefer a softer typing sound or a sharper one, both switches offer quality performance and comfort for users seeking a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, it is evident that the Milk Tea is lighter in both aspects. The Milk Tea has an actuation force of 37.5 grams, while the Orange has an actuation force of 46 grams, making the Milk Tea easier to trigger keystrokes with. Additionally, the Milk Tea has a bottom out force of 43.5 grams, compared to the Orange's 53 grams, indicating that the Milk Tea requires less force to fully press down the key. This lighter weight of the Milk Tea may appeal to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience for longer durations, such as for work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Orange switch's slightly heavier forces may cater to individuals who desire a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the difference in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches allows for users to choose the option that best suits their preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Orange linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the category of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for gamers seeking faster response times. The difference of 0.1 mm between the two may not be significant to most users, as both switches offer a relatively quick key press experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two would come down to personal preference in terms of how the switch feels when typing or gaming.
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 KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
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
In terms of sound, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch is described as having a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy auditory experience. On the other hand, the KTT Orange linear switch offers a low-pitched sound that is more bass-heavy and mellow in comparison. The Milk Tea switch creates a resonant and marbly sound, while the Orange switch delivers a smooth and frictionless typing experience with its factory-lubed components. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Milk Tea leaning towards a sharper sound and the Orange offering a mellower tone.
When it comes to feel, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch is described as polished and silky, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and effortless key travel. In contrast, the KTT Orange linear switch offers a bouncy and frictionless feel, giving users a spring-like feedback sensation and a fluid key travel that minimizes resistance. Both switches prioritize smoothness in typing, with the Milk Tea emphasizing a sleek finish and the Orange focusing on a lively rebound when keys are pressed. Overall, users can expect a comfortable and effortless typing experience with either switch option.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Milk Tea switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound along with a polished and silky typing feel, catering to those who prefer a sharp auditory experience and a refined key travel. On the other hand, the Orange switch delivers a low-pitched sound profile and a bouncy, frictionless feel, appealing to users seeking a mellower tone and a spring-like feedback sensation. Both switches excel in providing a smooth and effortless typing experience, making them ideal choices for different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. Regardless of the choice between the two, users can expect top-notch quality and performance in their typing endeavors.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a light bottom-out force and a high-pitched, polished sound profile, the Milk Tea switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom-out force with a low-pitched, bouncy feel and a frictionless typing experience, the KTT Orange switch could be the better option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that best aligns with your typing style and sound preferences.
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