PH Studio Milk Tea vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch stand out for their unique characteristics. The Milk Tea switch, with its high-pitched but muted sound and a light bottom-out of 43.5g, is perfect for prolonged typing sessions and offers a smooth and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Quinn switch provides a crisp and light tactility with a deep, resonant sound profile, giving users a rich and immersive typing experience. While the Milk Tea switch is ideal for those looking for a gentle balance between presence and subtlety, the Quinn switch appeals to users who prefer a touch of character and precision in their 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
59g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
The PH Studio Milk Tea and the Gateron Quinn both use different materials for their top and bottom housings, with the Milk Tea featuring POM housings and the Quinn featuring nylon housings. While both POM and nylon are known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, they achieve this in slightly different ways. POM housings are described as creating a more muted sound due to their softer plastic, while nylon housings absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite these differences, both housing materials ultimately contribute to a pleasing and unique sound experience.
The impact of the housing material on the overall typing experience is split between the top and bottom housings for both the Milk Tea and the Quinn switches. The bottom housing plays a larger role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing has more influence on the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities allows for a more dynamic typing experience, with different aspects of the sound profile being influenced by each housing material. Whether it is the POM or nylon housing, users can expect a satisfying and nuanced sound when using these switches.
In terms of performance, the POM and nylon housings used in the Milk Tea and Quinn switches offer similar results in creating a deep and full sound profile. While the specific characteristics of each material may differ, such as the muted sound of POM versus the round sound of nylon, both housing materials ultimately contribute to an overall pleasant typing experience. Whether one prefers the unique sound profile of POM or the classic feel of nylon, both the Milk Tea and Quinn switches offer high-quality housing materials that enhance the tactile feel and sound of typing on a mechanical keyboard.
Weight
The PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37.5 grams compared to the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Milk Tea requires 43.5 grams to bottom out, while the Quinn needs 67 grams, making it a heavier option. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may favor the Milk Tea for longer typing sessions or gaming, while users looking for a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Quinn switch. Both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces in their respective light and medium-heavy categories. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, we can see that the Milk Tea has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Quinn has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Milk Tea has a slightly longer distance to travel compared to the Quinn. Generally, a shorter travel distance can provide faster response times, making it a preferred choice for gamers. On the other hand, a longer travel distance can offer a more tactile and immersive typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether you prioritize speed or depth in your typing experience. Both switches offer their own unique benefits, so it's important to consider which factors are most important to you in selecting the right switch for your needs.
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 Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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 offers a high-pitched and somewhat muted auditory experience, creating a balanced presence that is gentle yet noticeable. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch provides a deep, resonant sound profile with crisp tactile feedback, adding character to the typing experience. While the Milk Tea switch leans towards a higher-pitched and clacky sound, the Quinn switch boasts a bassy and resonant tone. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal sound preferences and the overall setup of the keyboard, including the board and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Milk Tea switch is described as offering a polished and silky typing experience, with smooth key travel and reduced friction. In contrast, the Quinn switch is known for being snappy, polished, bouncy, and accented, providing a lively and responsive typing sensation with a medium level of tactility. Both switches offer a unique feel that caters to different typing styles and preferences, so users can select based on their desired level of tactile feedback and keypress response.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch each bring their own distinct qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the Milk Tea switch leans towards a higher-pitched and polished sound with a smooth typing experience, the Quinn switch offers a deep, resonant sound profile and a snappy, bouncy feel with medium tactility. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing needs, so users can expect a quality typing experience with either option, tailored to their individual preferences and requirements. Ultimately, users can expect reliable performance and a satisfying typing experience with either the Milk Tea or Quinn switch, depending on their sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you value a lightweight switch with a high-pitched and muted sound profile, smooth key travel, and effortless keystrokes, the Milk Tea linear switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a deep, resonant sound, crisp tactile feedback, and a bouncy and lively typing sensation, the Quinn tactile switch could be the perfect fit for your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for your typing experience.
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