PH Studio Milk Tea vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Gateron Type A both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Milk Tea is renowned for its high-pitched yet muted sound profile, making it a popular choice for those who want a blend of presence and subtlety in their typing experience. With a light bottom-out force and smooth stem material, it is designed for extended typing sessions with ease. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" stands out for its medium-weight feel and deeper sound signature, appealing to users looking for a more subdued typing experience. Each switch has its own set of qualities that make it suitable for various preferences, but diving deeper into their specific characteristics will help you make the best choice for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37.5g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The PH Studio Milk Tea and the Gateron Type A switches both utilize unique housing materials to create a distinctive typing experience. The Milk Tea features a POM top housing, known for producing a pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper and more muted side. In contrast, the Type A utilizes a nylon top housing which also creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. While POM is praised for its sound characteristics, nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Milk Tea and the Type A switches continue to showcase the unique properties of their respective materials. The Milk Tea incorporates a POM bottom housing, which complements the top housing's sound profile by contributing to the deeper and more muted tones. Similarly, the Type A's nylon bottom housing adds to the switch's overall sound profile by further enhancing the deeper and fuller sound. This demonstrates how different housing materials can work together to create a cohesive typing experience that emphasizes certain sound qualities.
When considering how the top and bottom housings interact with each other in a switch, it is important to recognize the impact each material has on the overall sound and feel of the typing experience. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound produced when a key is released. While the Milk Tea and Type A switches may have different housing materials for their top and bottom, the combination of POM and nylon allows for a well-rounded typing experience that showcases the unique characteristics of each material.
Weight
In comparing the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it is evident that the Milk Tea switch is the lighter option while the Type A switch falls on the heavier side. The actuation force of the Milk Tea is 37.5 grams, lighter than the Type A's 50 grams. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Milk Tea is 43.5 grams, lighter than the Type A's 55 grams. This means that the Milk Tea switch offers a lighter and more effortless typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a gentler touch or need to type for extended periods without fatigue. Conversely, the Type A switch provides a more substantial and tactile typing experience, suitable for users who prefer a stronger push feel for precision typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the Gateron Type A linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Milk Tea switch allows for a slightly quicker key press compared to the Type A switch. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Milk Tea switch due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may find the Type A switch with a longer travel distance to be more satisfying. Both switches offer their own advantages based on personal preference, with the Milk Tea being on the shorter end while the Type A provides a slightly longer travel distance for a different 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 Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70 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 Milk Tea linear switch is distinguished by its high-pitched and clacky nature, providing a sharp yet muted auditory experience that remains crisp and percussive. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound profile, making it a versatile choice suitable for various purposes. The sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by external factors such as keyboard construction and keycaps, so it's essential to consider these components when selecting a switch based on sound preferences.
Moving on to feel, the Milk Tea linear switch stands out for its polished and silky typing experience, boasting a smooth and refined finish that enhances key travel and minimizes friction. This ensures a sleek and effortless typing feel that is well-suited for prolonged use. Unfortunately, information regarding the tactile feel of the Gateron Type A linear switch is not available, making it difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect.
Overall, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offers a unique auditory blend with a focus on high-pitched and clacky sound profile, complemented by a polished and silky typing feel designed for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch provides a more neutral and subdued sound profile, although details on its tactile feel are lacking. In terms of sound, users can expect contrasting experiences between the two switches, while the typing feel of the Milk Tea is characterized by smoothness and refinement. For those seeking similar results in sound or feel, careful consideration of additional factors such as keyboard build and keycap selection will play a crucial role in achieving the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch or the Gateron Type A linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences for typing experience. If you value a lighter bottom-out force of 43.5 grams, a high-pitched but muted sound profile, and a polished and silky typing feel, then the Milk Tea switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force of 55 grams, a deeper sound signature, and a neutral and subdued typing feel, then the Type A switch may be the better option. It all depends on what you prioritize in your mechanical keyboard switches, whether it be for extended typing sessions or a balanced sound profile. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on your individual preferences.
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