PH Studio Milk Tea vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Milk Tea and the Outemu Blue are two distinct mechanical keyboard switches with unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Milk Tea, a linear switch, stands out for its high-pitched yet muted sound, making it a great choice for those who value a balance between presence and subtlety during prolonged typing sessions. With a light bottom-out force and the use of Ly for the stem material, it provides effortless keystrokes, ideal for extensive typists. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue, a clicky switch, offers a completely different typing experience with its tactile feedback and audible click sound. This makes it a preferred choice for those who enjoy the satisfying clicky sound and precise tactile response while typing. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Outemu Blue switches offer contrasting sound profiles due to their different composition. The Milk Tea's POM top housing provides a deeper and more muted sound, while the Blue's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This difference in sound can affect the overall typing experience, as some may prefer a softer and more subtle sound, while others may prefer a more pronounced and crisp sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding a visual element to the auditory experience.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the POM bottom housing of the Milk Tea switch also produces a deep and muted sound, in contrast to the nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Blue, which creates a fuller and rounder sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller yet more satisfying typing sound. This difference in bottom housing material can impact the overall typing feel, as the bottom-out sound and feel are influenced by the qualities of the bottom housing.
While the housing materials of the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Outemu Blue switches offer distinct sound profiles, they ultimately work together to create a unique typing experience. The top and bottom housings play different roles in sound production, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in material composition, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience through their unique sound profiles, catering to the preferences of different users. Whether you prefer a deeper, muted sound or a sharper, crisper sound, these switches offer a range of options to suit your typing style.
Weight
The PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Blue clicky switch. The Milk Tea requires 37.5 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 43.5 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option. In contrast, the Outemu Blue switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams, however, the bottom out force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Milk Tea would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if a stronger push feel is desired for a more substantial typing experience, the Outemu Blue switch would be more suitable. Both switches offer different levels of actuation and bottom out forces, providing users with options based on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch have different travel distances, with the Milk Tea measuring at 3.6 mm and the Blue at 4 mm. The Milk Tea offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Blue, which may result in a faster response time for users who prefer a more reactive typing experience. On the other hand, the Blue switch's longer travel distance might provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who enjoy a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding the travel distance and how it impacts typing or gaming performance.
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 Outemu 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
When it comes to sound, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offers a unique blend of high-pitched and muted tones, creating a balance between presence and subtlety. This switch is known for its clacky and resonant qualities, providing a sharp and crisp sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch does not have any specific sound descriptions available. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Milk Tea is praised for its polished and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and refined finish that enhances the overall typing feel. With a bottom-out force of 43.5g and a stem material made of Ly, this switch ensures effortless keystrokes for prolonged typing sessions. Unfortunately, there is no information available on the feel of the Outemu Blue switch.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch stands out for its unique sound profile that combines high-pitched tones with a muted essence, as well as its polished and silky feel that provides a smooth typing experience. While the sound and feel of the Outemu Blue clicky switch are unknown, it is safe to assume that it will offer a different experience compared to the Milk Tea linear switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, consider your typing preferences. If you value a smooth and refined typing experience with a gentle balance between presence and subtlety, opt for the Milk Tea linear switch. With its light bottom-out force and high-pitched sound profile, it is designed for prolonged typing sessions and a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a sharp and snappy auditory feedback and a tactile typing feel, the Outemu Blue clicky switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to your personal typing style and preferences.
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