PH Studio Milk Tea vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, there are distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Milk Tea switch is praised for its unique auditory blend, with a high-pitched yet muted sound that strikes a balance between presence and subtlety. With a light actuation force and a stem material that enhances typing ease, this switch is perfect for prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown switch does not have a standout feature but provides a tactile feedback that some users prefer. Both switches have their own set of strengths and appeal to different preferences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Outemu Dustproof Brown, we can see that the Milk Tea features POM housings for both the top and bottom, creating a deeper and more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown utilizes polycarbonate for the top housing, yielding a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This contrast in sound profiles is mainly due to the stiffness of polycarbonate compared to the softer nature of POM.
Another point of comparison is the aesthetics of the housing materials. The Milk Tea's POM top and bottom housings do not offer the translucency that polycarbonate provides. The Dustproof Brown's polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visual element to the switch. This difference in appearance can play a significant role for users who value customizing their keyboards with vibrant lighting effects.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, it's important to note that the bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. The nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Brown offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, contrasting with the POM bottom housing of the Milk Tea, which also produces a deep sound but with a more muted quality. Overall, the choice between these two housing materials can greatly affect the auditory and tactile experience of typing on a mechanical keyboard.
Weight
The PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Milk Tea has a lighter actuation force of 37.5 grams and a bottom out force of 43.5 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. This means that the Milk Tea is lighter in terms of force required, while the Dustproof Brown is heavier. For those looking for a similar typing experience, choosing either switch based on their preference for a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force will provide similar results in terms of keypress feel.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Milk Tea offers a shorter travel distance, which may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown provides a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, with the Milk Tea being the shorter option and the Dustproof Brown being the longer option.
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 Dustproof Brown 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 stands out for its unique blend of high-pitched yet muted tones, creating a balance between presence and subtlety. The tactile feedback of this switch is described as crisp and sharp, ideal for those who enjoy a distinctive auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch is unknown, leaving it a bit of a mystery in comparison. However, it is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Milk Tea switch is praised for its polished and silky typing experience, providing a smooth and refined key travel that minimizes resistance. This makes it a favorable choice for users seeking a comfortable and effortless typing feel. On the contrary, the tactile feel of the Dustproof Brown switch is unknown, leaving a gap in comparison with the Milk Tea. However, based on the description of a tactile switch, users can expect a tactile bump and feedback upon actuation.
Taking all available information into consideration, the Milk Tea linear switch shines for its distinct sound profile and smooth typing feel, making it a preferred choice for users who prioritize both auditory and tactile experiences. While the Dustproof Brown switch lacks detailed information regarding sound and feel, users can expect a tactile feedback similar to other tactile switches available in the market. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches would depend on the individual's preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when making a decision between the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prioritize a light bottom-out force, a high-pitched and clacky sound profile, and a polished and silky typing feel, the Milk Tea switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force and are looking for a tactile switch without a defined sound or feel description, the Dustproof Brown switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision boils down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
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