PH Studio Milk Tea vs. Outemu Dustproof Red
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Milk Tea and the Outemu Dustproof Red are both linear mechanical keyboard switches with their own unique characteristics and advantages. The Milk Tea, manufactured by BSUN, boasts a high-pitched yet muted auditory profile, providing a perfect balance between presence and subtlety. With a bottom-out force of just 43.5g and a stem material made of Ly, it is designed for extended typing sessions and offers a smooth and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red switch lacks distinct features in its description but is known for its durability and reliability. Each switch has its own strengths and considerations to keep in mind when choosing the right one for your needs. 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
60g
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
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 Dustproof Red switches offer unique characteristics and sound profiles. The Milk Tea's POM top housing creates a deeper and relatively muted sound, while the Dustproof Red's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound due to its stiffness. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing is ideal for RGB lighting thanks to its translucency. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the Milk Tea also contributes to a deep and pleasing sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Red provides a fuller sound due to its softer nature.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Milk Tea and Dustproof Red switches differ, they each contribute distinct qualities to the overall sound and feel of the switch. The split between the top and bottom housings means that when pressed down, the bottom housing's characteristics impact the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. The POM top housing of the Milk Tea and the polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Red offer unique sound profiles, with the former being deeper and the latter sharper. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the Milk Tea and the nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Red provide different sound experiences, with the former being more muted and the latter fuller.
Both the Milk Tea and Dustproof Red switches showcase the importance of housing materials in influencing sound quality. While the POM and polycarbonate top housings offer contrasting sound profiles, the POM bottom housing and nylon bottom housing also provide unique characteristics. Despite differences in material, both switches demonstrate the impact of housing materials on sound and feel. Whether you prefer a deeper, muted sound profile from POM or a sharper, crisper sound profile from polycarbonate, both switches offer distinct experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, we can see that the Milk Tea has a lighter actuation force of 37.5 grams compared to the Dustproof Red's 45 grams. The bottom out force of the Milk Tea is also lighter at 43.5 grams, while the Dustproof Red has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Milk Tea will provide a lighter typing experience overall, which could be preferable for individuals who type for long periods or engage in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red offers a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches provide different levels of resistance, allowing users to choose based on their preference for a lighter or heavier feel when typing.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, we find that the Milk Tea has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dustproof Red has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Milk Tea offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers who prioritize speed. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for either a shorter or longer travel distance.
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 Red 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
The PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, offering a sharp and snappy auditory experience that is crisp and resonant. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch's sound qualities are unknown, so it is unclear how it compares in terms of sound. When it comes to feel, the Milk Tea switch is noted for its polished and silky typing experience, providing a smooth and refined keypress that minimizes resistance. The feel of the Dustproof Red switch is not specified, leaving a gap in comparison. Overall, if you prefer a linear switch with a high-pitched and clacky sound as well as a polished and silky feel, you will likely enjoy the PH Studio Milk Tea switch. However, for those seeking a different sound or feel experience, further information on the Outemu Dustproof Red switch would be necessary for a comprehensive comparison.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, consider the specific needs and preferences for your typing experience. If you value a light bottom out force of 43.5 grams and enjoy a unique auditory blend with a high-pitched yet muted sound profile, the Milk Tea switch would be a suitable choice, especially for prolonged typing sessions. Additionally, if you prefer a polished and silky typing feel, the Milk Tea switch offers a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and prioritize durability with dustproof capabilities, the Dustproof Red switch may be the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your individual typing style and preferences.
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