PH Studio Milk Tea vs. Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie

Overview

When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, two standout options are the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, both of which are linear switches offering distinct characteristics. The Milk Tea, produced by BSUN, is celebrated for its unique auditory blend that produces a fairly high-pitched sound while maintaining a muted essence, resulting in an intricate balance that appeals to those who appreciate a refined acoustic profile. Its use of Ly for the stem material contributes to a smooth and effortless keystroke experience, making it a favorite among users looking for both performance and subtlety. On the other hand, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, known for its medium-weight and all-POM construction, emphasizes durability and affordability without compromising quality. It delivers a satisfying thocky sound profile that many find desirable, particularly for typing and gaming alike. Both switches cater to different preferences—whether you lean towards the Milk Tea's polished, marbly feel or the Sea Salt Smoothie's smoothness and budget-friendly nature. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

PH Studio Milk Tea Linear

Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie Linear

$4.50

$4.00 per 10

$3.00

$2.70 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the PH Studio Milk Tea and Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switches are both constructed from POM, which stands for polyoxymethylene, a thermoplastic that is known for its durability and low friction. The use of POM in both the top and bottom housings significantly contributes to the unique sound profile these switches are designed to deliver. Both switches offer a deeper and relatively muted sound experience due to this material, making them an attractive option for enthusiasts who prioritize acoustic qualities in their mechanical switches. As a result, users of either switch can expect a pleasing auditory feedback regardless of which option they choose.

While both the Milk Tea and Sea Salt Smoothie employ POM housing, the sound characteristics—especially the bottom-out sensations—can be subtly influenced by the housing structure. Both switches possess POM bottom housings that similarly contribute to the deeper sound produced when the keys are pressed down. This shared material means the tactile experience is less likely to differ significantly between the two switches, allowing users to feel that satisfying bottom-out sensation that many mechanical keyboard users cherish. Thus, both models will deliver comparable performance in terms of sound and feel.

In terms of the top housing, since both models utilize POM, the characteristics extending beyond the material itself, such as design and engineering, will determine the overall user experience. While the sound profiles are the same, any variations in actuation or tactile feedback that may arise from design differences won't stem from the housing material. Consequently, users looking for a seamless acoustic experience can expect similar results from both the Milk Tea and the Sea Salt Smoothie. Ultimately, the uniformity of POM in both switches ensures that their acoustic qualities harmonize, providing a distinctly rounded and enjoyable typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch to the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, we see a notable difference in actuation force. The Milk Tea switch features a lighter actuation force of 37.5 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer extended typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie requires a heavier actuation force of 48 grams, catering to users who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. However, the bottom out force for the Sea Salt Smoothie is unavailable, making a direct comparison in that regard impossible. Nevertheless, based on the known specifications, the Milk Tea switch is the lighter option, while the Sea Salt Smoothie provides a heavier experience. If the bottom out force were known for the Sea Salt Smoothie, it could offer further insight into the overall typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, we find that the Milk Tea has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sea Salt Smoothie measures slightly longer at 3.7 mm. This indicates that the Sea Salt Smoothie offers a more pronounced depth when pressed, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Milk Tea could be preferred by gamers or those who enjoy rapid response times, making it more responsive in fast-paced scenarios. While both switches are relatively close in distance, the Sea Salt Smoothie stands as the longer option, whereas the Milk Tea serves as the shorter choice, catering to distinct preferences in typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch is intriguing, characterized by a fairly high-pitched and clacky demeanor that offers a vibrant auditory experience. This crisp, bright sound, complemented by a muted essence, strikes a balance that can be both engaging and non-intrusive. The resonant qualities lend an immersive element to the keystrokes, making it ideal for those who appreciate a distinct yet refined sound. Conversely, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switch presents a thocky sound profile that diverges from the high-pitched clarity of the Milk Tea. This difference may cater to users looking for a deeper, more robust auditory experience rather than the bright sharpness found in the Milk Tea switch. Due to the absence of detailed descriptors for the Sea Salt Smoothie’s sound profile, making a direct comparison here leaves room for personal interpretation based on overall typing setup.

When it comes to feel, the Milk Tea switch excels with its polished and silky characteristics, presenting a smooth and refined typing experience. The well-crafted design ensures reduced friction and an effortless keypress, offering a sleek feel that enhances user comfort during extended typing sessions. The Sea Salt Smoothie switch's tactile properties remain unidentified in this comparison, leaving a gap in understanding how it feels beneath the fingers. Without specific descriptors, one can’t ascertain whether it would rival the refined texture of the Milk Tea; however, it does promise smoothness typical of POM switches, which might provide a different yet satisfying experience.

In summary, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch distinguishes itself through its high-pitched, clean, and polished sound and feel, making it a great choice for those who prefer an articulate auditory and tactile experience. The Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie offers a contrasting thocky sound, adding depth, but without specific insights into its feel, its overall performance remains uncertain in that regard. Overall, while both switches offer unique qualities, the Milk Tea stands out for its auditory clarity and refined touch, while the Sea Salt Smoothie could appeal to those seeking a different sound profile, albeit with unknown tactile attributes.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and intended use. If you value a light touch and appreciate a typing experience that blends both a gentle auditory quality and a polished, silky feel, the Milk Tea switch will likely better suit your needs. Its unique high-pitched resonance offers a tactile delight, perfect for both gaming and long typing sessions, while its light actuation force makes it less fatiguing over time. Conversely, if you're someone who prefers a more solid, thocky sound profile that conveys a sense of quality and durability, you may lean towards the Sea Salt Smoothie. Even though the bottom-out force isn't specified, the medium-weight characteristics of this all-POM switch will likely provide a satisfying feedback with each press, ideal for those who enjoy a more deliberate typing experience. Thus, the choice between these two switches hinges on whether you prioritize auditory presence and ease of keystrokes or a heavier, more resonant feel paired with exceptional smoothness.

Mentioned in this article

PH Studio Milk Tea Linear

$4.50

$4.00 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie Linear

$3.00

$2.70 per 10

Learn more