PH Studio Milk Tea vs. Huano Sakura
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Huano Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Huano Sakura linear switches offers a fascinating exploration of tactile experience and auditory characteristics. The Milk Tea switch, crafted by BSUN, is celebrated for its unique auditory signature—striking a harmonious balance between a fairly high-pitched sound and a muted undertone, making it an attractive option for those who appreciate a lively, yet subtly refined keystroke. With its silky smoothness and polished feel, the Milk Tea is ideal for gamers and typists who enjoy auditory feedback without overwhelming noise. In contrast, the Huano Sakura switch provides a feather-light touch with medium acoustics, perfect for users who prefer a softer keystroke during long typing sessions. This switch is particularly suited for those seeking comfort over extended use without sacrificing performance. Each switch has its distinct charm, catering to various preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
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
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Huano Sakura switches, one can observe notable differences that influence their sound profiles and performance. The Milk Tea's top housing is made from POM (Polyoxymethylene), which is known for producing a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Huano Sakura utilizes POK (Polyketone) for its top housing, which boasts a higher coefficient of friction, contributing to a smoother operation. This variance is essential as it means that while both switches aim for pleasant auditory feedback, their sound signatures will differ, with the Sakura potentially yielding a clackier sound due to its material properties, despite the muted characteristics of the Milk Tea.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Milk Tea maintains the use of POM, which resonates with its philosophy of creating a deep, rich sound. This material's characteristics allow the switch to have a more muted bottom-out sound, which is ideal for users seeking quiet operation. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura employs nylon for its bottom housing, a traditional material that excels in absorbing sound. The softness of nylon enhances the overall sound dampening effect, creating a fuller and rounder sound profile when the key is bottomed out. While both switches can achieve pleasing acoustics, the Milk Tea may be better suited for those seeking depth, whereas the Sakura could appeal to those who prefer a more robust and absorbing sound experience.
Overall, while the PH Studio Milk Tea and Huano Sakura have different materials for their housings, their contrasting properties can lead to similar user experiences depending on personal preference. The POM and nylon combination in the Milk Tea emphasizes muted deep sounds, while the combination of POK and nylon in the Sakura provides a more responsive tactile feel with a brighter auditory feedback. Ultimately, despite the differences in materials, both switches can cater to users who appreciate a thoughtfully curated auditory profile, and with the right setup, one can adapt almost similarly to either switch based on their individual sound and feel preferences.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch to the Huano Sakura linear switch, we find some interesting similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Milk Tea switch features a light actuation force of 37.5 grams, while the Sakura switch is slightly lighter at 35 grams. This means that typists who prefer a lighter touch may favor the Sakura for its easier actuation. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Milk Tea's 43.5 grams is lighter than the Sakura's 45 grams, indicating that both switches provide a generally light typing experience, although the Milk Tea may feel less strenuous when fully depressed. Overall, both switches cater to users who enjoy lighter actuation and typing, but those who prefer a more pronounced bottoming out sensation might lean towards the Milk Tea switch due to its slightly lower bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning they provide the same distance from the top to the bottom when engaged. This similarity ensures that users will experience an equivalent feel when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. As a result, both switches are likely to produce similar typing experiences in terms of actuation distance, which can be beneficial for those seeking consistency in their keyboard setups.
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 Huano Sakura comes in at $3.50 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 with its distinct high-pitched character that amalgamates a clacky and resonant profile. This switch produces a crisp and bright auditory experience, reminiscent of a gentle percussive clarity that can enhance typing enjoyment. The term "marbly" effectively captures the unique resonance of these switches, suggesting a clean and sharp sound that is nicely complemented by the muted essence that contributes to its overall subtlety. In contrast, while specific sound descriptors for the Huano Sakura linear switch are not provided, its intention for a feather-light touch coupled with medium acoustics suggests a more balanced sound that would likely veer towards a smooth experience without overt distraction. However, the precise auditory qualities remain unknown.
In terms of feel, the Milk Tea switch excels with its polished and silky characteristics, allowing for an exceptionally smooth typing experience. The meticulous design and use of premium materials enable it to deliver reduced friction during key travel, making each keystroke a joy to execute. This seamless interaction not only promotes comfort but also enhances typing efficiency, especially during prolonged sessions. Conversely, there is no available information regarding the tactile feel of the Huano Sakura switch, meaning its performance in this aspect remains ambiguous. Therefore, newcomers may have less insight into what to expect from that particular switch compared to the well-defined qualities of the Milk Tea.
In summary, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch is characterized by its unique high-pitched sound and exceptionally smooth feel, making it an appealing choice for those who value both auditory and tactile experiences. While the Sakura switch may offer a good balance and comfort for extensive typing sessions, specifics regarding its sound and feel are undefined, leaving potential users with a mystery to unravel. For those who lean towards a more defined sound and tactile response, the Milk Tea switch will likely provide a satisfying experience. Ultimately, if you prefer a clearly defined auditory signing-off with a silky touch, the Milk Tea is undoubtedly the frontrunner between the two.
Conclusion
To conclude, the decision between the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you value a lighter bottom-out force combined with a unique auditory experience, the Milk Tea switch could be the perfect choice for you. Its high-pitched, clacky sound and silky feel make it ideal for those who enjoy a more expressive typing experience while still preferring a muted essence. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that emphasizes a feather-light touch with a balanced medium acoustic profile, the Sakura might suit you better. This switch is particularly well-suited for extended typing sessions, providing a smooth yet slightly more restrained sound that can help maintain focus during long work or gaming marathons. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your sensory preferences and the overall typing experience you desire, whether it be the lively and polished Milk Tea or the comfortable and subtle Sakura.
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