PH Studio Milk Tea vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Milk Tea and the Outemu Lotus are both linear mechanical keyboard switches, but they offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Milk Tea, manufactured by BSUN, is renowned for its high-pitched yet muted sound profile, providing a delicate balance between presence and subtlety. With an actuation force of just 43.5g and a stem material made of Ly, it is designed for extended typing sessions with ease and comfort. On the other hand, the Lotus does not have specific standout features mentioned, providing a mysterious allure for those seeking an understated switch. While the Milk Tea is described as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Marbly', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Resonant', the Lotus remains undefined in its characteristics. Ultimately, each switch offers its own unique qualities, catering to different typing 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
35g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
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 Lotus have distinct differences when it comes to their top and bottom components. The Milk Tea features a POM top and bottom housing, which results in a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Lotus utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, providing a fuller and rounder sound due to the softer plastic's sound-absorbing properties. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the materials used in their housings contribute to their individual characteristics.
Despite the varying top and bottom housing materials, both the Milk Tea and the Lotus switches aim to create a pleasing and unique sound experience for users. The POM and nylon housings in the Milk Tea and Lotus respectively each play a role in enhancing the depth and overall tone of the sound produced by the switches. While the POM housings in the Milk Tea offer a relatively more muted sound profile, the nylon housings in the Lotus provide a fuller and deeper sound that is distinct in its own right. This showcases how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the auditory experience of typing on these switches.
When it comes to the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the typing experience, the qualities brought by each material become apparent. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing affects the sound when letting go of the key. This split of qualities between the top and bottom housings allows for a balanced and dynamic typing experience, with each component contributing to the overall sound profile of the switch. In the case of the Milk Tea and Lotus switches, the unique characteristics of their housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the sound and tactile feedback users can expect from each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, it is clear that both switches are on the lighter side. The Milk Tea has an actuation force of 37.5 grams and a bottom out force of 43.5 grams, while the Lotus has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches provide a light typing experience, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. The slight difference in bottom out force between the two switches may result in a slightly more substantial typing experience with the Lotus. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for a slightly lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Milk Tea switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lotus switch. The difference may not be significant, but those who prefer a bit more depth when typing or gaming may lean towards the Milk Tea switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular for gamers looking for quick response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Lotus 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
In terms of sound, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch is known for its high-pitched and clacky sound profile, providing a crisp and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the Outemu Lotus linear switch are unknown. When comparing the two switches based on sound alone, it's clear that the Milk Tea switch offers a unique blend of high-pitched tones and muted qualities that may be preferred by those who enjoy a sharper sound profile.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Milk Tea linear switch is often described as polished and silky, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and effortless key travel. Unfortunately, the tactile feel of the Outemu Lotus linear switch is unknown. Since the Lotus linear switch lacks available information on its tactile characteristics, it can be assumed that users may not experience the same level of smoothness and refinement as they would with the Milk Tea switch.
Overall, when considering the subjective qualities of sound and feel, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch appears to offer a more distinctive and refined typing experience compared to the Outemu Lotus linear switch. With its unique auditory blend and smooth key travel, the Milk Tea switch is an excellent choice for users seeking a balance between presence and subtlety during prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, while the qualities of the Lotus switch remain unknown, it is advisable to opt for the Milk Tea switch if a similar typing experience is desired.
Conclusion
In summary, when selecting between the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences and needs. If you prioritize a light bottom-out force and a unique auditory experience with a balance of high-pitched sound and muted essence, the Milk Tea switch may be the ideal choice for you. Additionally, if you value a polished and silky typing feel for prolonged typing sessions, the Milk Tea switch could offer a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher bottom-out force and are looking for a specific sound profile or typing feel, the Lotus switch may better suit your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing style and preferences to ensure the best keyboard switch for your needs.
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