PH Studio Milk Tea vs. Outemu Purple
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Outemu Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch offer distinct characteristics for different typing preferences. The Milk Tea switch, with its unique auditory blend of high-pitched yet muted sound, provides a gentle balance between presence and subtlety. Designed for prolonged typing sessions with a light bottom-out force of 43.5g, it offers effortless keystrokes. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple switch lacks specific defining qualities but falls under the tactile category. While the Milk Tea switch is ideal for those who enjoy a clacky, high-pitched typing experience, the Purple switch offers a tactile feedback that some users may prefer. 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
2.00 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
In comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Outemu Purple, the key difference lies in the material used for their bottom housings. The Milk Tea utilizes a POM bottom housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Purple features a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a fuller and rounder sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a dulled sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the stiffer POM material.
On the other hand, both switches share a commonality in their use of POM for the top housing. POM is known for creating a pleasing and unique sound profile, albeit on the deeper side and relatively muted. This leads to a similar experience in terms of sound when pressing down on the keys of both switches. However, where they differ is in the aesthetic aspect, as the Purple's polycarbonate top housing allows for the use of RGB lighting due to its translucency, which is not found in the Milk Tea.
Overall, the choice between the Milk Tea and the Purple housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetic appeal. While the Milk Tea offers a more muted and deeper sound with its POM bottom housing, the Purple provides a fuller and rounder sound thanks to its nylon bottom housing. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the Purple top housing allows for RGB lighting, a feature not available in the Milk Tea. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37.5 grams compared to the Outemu Purple tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 50 grams, making the Milk Tea easier to type with for longer periods of time. The bottom out force of the Milk Tea is also lighter at 43.5 grams, providing a softer typing experience overall. In contrast, the bottom out force of the Purple switch is unknown, but the higher actuation force suggests that it may require more force to bottom out, resulting in a more substantial typing feel. For those who prefer a stronger push feel, the Outemu Purple switch may be the better choice. Ultimately, the actuation force and bottom out force of a switch play a significant role in the typing experience, with lighter forces being preferred for extended typing sessions and heavier forces for a more substantial feel.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Purple tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Milk Tea has a shorter travel distance compared to the Purple switch. The difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall typing or gaming experience. Those who prefer faster response times may lean towards the Milk Tea switch due to its slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the Outemu Purple switch. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their travel distance, so the choice ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style.
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 Purple 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 Milk Tea switch offers a unique auditory experience with a blend of high-pitched yet muted sound, making it ideal for those who prefer a gentle balance between presence and subtlety. Its accessible bottom-out and use of Ly for the stem material contribute to a smooth and effortless typing feel, perfect for prolonged typing sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Purple switch lacks specific descriptions of sound and feel, but based on its tactile nature, it may offer a different typing experience compared to the linear Milk Tea switch.
When it comes to sound, the Milk Tea switch is known for its clacky, high-pitched, marbly, and resonant characteristics, providing a sharp, crisp, and clean sound profile when pressed. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Purple switch remains unknown, suggesting that the auditory experience may vary between the two switches. Additionally, factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps can further impact the sound produced by these switches.
In terms of feel, the Milk Tea switch is described as polished and silky, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Although the tactile nature of the Outemu Purple switch implies a different tactile feel compared to the linear Milk Tea switch, the specific tactile qualities remain unspecified. Therefore, it is important for users to consider their preferences for sound and feel when choosing between these two switches.
Overall, the Milk Tea linear switch by PH Studio presents a unique combination of sound and feel, catering to those who value a delicate balance between auditory feedback and typing comfort. While the Outemu Purple switch lacks specific descriptions of sound and feel, users can expect a potentially different typing experience with its tactile nature. Ultimately, considering individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style will help newcomers determine the most suitable switch for their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and typing needs. If you're looking for a switch with a light bottom-out force and a unique auditory blend that is ideal for prolonged typing sessions, the Milk Tea may be the perfect choice for you. Its polished and silky feel, along with its high-pitched and clacky sound, offers a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with an unspecified bottom-out force, the Purple may be more suitable for your needs. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and desired feel when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your typing experience.
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