PH Studio Milk Tea vs. Gateron Type L

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options stand out - the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch. The Milk Tea switch, known for its unique auditory blend of high-pitched yet muted sound, offers a gentle balance between presence and subtlety. With a light bottom-out force of just 43.5g, it is perfect for prolonged typing sessions and effortless keystrokes. On the other hand, the Type L switch from Gateron is part of Sillyworks' innovative "Project Rehash," featuring classic travel distances with modern factory lubrication. It is the lightest in its series, requiring only 45g to bottom out and producing a sound signature leaning towards the deeper end of the spectrum. While the Milk Tea switch is characterized as 'Clacky' and 'Marbly', the Type L is labeled as 'Neutral' and 'Feathery'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

PH Studio Milk Tea Linear

Gateron Type L Linear

$4.50

$4.00 per 10

$4.70 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Gateron Type L differ in terms of their compositions and the resulting sound profiles. The Milk Tea features a POM top housing, which produces a unique and pleasing sound that is deep and relatively muted. In contrast, the Type L utilizes a nylon top housing, known for creating a fuller and deeper sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While both materials offer a deep sound, the POM top housing of the Milk Tea may deliver a more unique and pleasing tone compared to the nylon top housing of the Type L.

Similarly, the bottom housings of the Milk Tea and Type L also showcase differences in material and sound characteristics. The POM bottom housing of the Milk Tea contributes to a deep and muted sound profile, similar to its top housing counterpart. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Type L brings about a fuller and deeper sound profile, thanks to the softer plastic material that absorbs more sound. These contrasting qualities between the bottom housings of the two switches further emphasize the distinct sound experiences they offer to users.

In situations where the top and bottom housings of a switch are different, the qualities of each housing material are divided between the two parts of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing's characteristics will impact the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing's qualities will influence the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in housing materials between the Milk Tea and the Type L, users can expect similar results in terms of the overall sound experience, with variations in tone and depth based on the specific properties of POM and nylon.

Weight

The PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch both fall under the category of light switches, with the Milk Tea being slightly lighter in terms of actuation force at 37.5 grams compared to the Type L's 38 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Milk Tea requires 43.5 grams to fully press down, whereas the Type L needs 45 grams. Both switches offer a relatively light typing experience, making them ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. While the difference in force between the two switches is minimal, users may notice a slightly softer feel with the Milk Tea and a slightly firmer feel with the Type L. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches boils down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.

Travel distance

The PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Type L linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Gateron Type L has a longer travel distance compared to the Milk Tea switch. The Milk Tea switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance which may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Type L switch provides a bit more depth in its travel distance, which may be more suitable for users who prefer a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a shorter or longer travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offers a unique blend of high-pitched and muted tones, creating a gentle balance between presence and subtlety. Its Clacky and High-pitched sound profile makes it suitable for those who prefer a sharp and crisp auditory experience during typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch presents a Neutral and Subdued sound signature with a deeper tone that leans towards the lower end of the acoustic spectrum. Both switches offer different sound profiles that cater to individual preferences, with the Milk Tea providing a more vivid and resonant auditory experience compared to the Type L's more subdued and dampened sound.

Moving on to feel, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch is designed to offer a polished and silky typing experience, characterized by a smooth and refined finish that enhances the overall typing feel. The use of Ly for the stem material contributes to reduced friction and smooth key travel, providing an effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Type L linear switch offers a feathery and easy-to-press feel, requiring minimal exertion from the fingers and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches prioritize comfort and smoothness in typing, with the Milk Tea focusing on a polished and refined typing experience, while the Type L prioritizes lightness and ease of key presses.

In conclusion, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch each offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Milk Tea excels in providing a unique blend of high-pitched tones and a polished typing experience, catering to those who prefer a sharp and refined auditory and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Type L stands out with its deeper sound profile and feathery feel, offering a more subdued auditory experience and requiring minimal force during key presses. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound and feel, with both options providing a satisfactory typing experience tailored to different needs and preferences.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, consider the unique qualities each switch offers. Opt for the Milk Tea if you value a high-pitched yet muted sound profile, paired with a light bottom-out force of 43.5 grams, perfect for prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, choose the Type L if you prefer a deeper sound profile and a slightly higher bottom-out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for a variety of typing needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.

Mentioned in this article

PH Studio Milk Tea Linear

$4.50

$4.00 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Type L Linear

$4.70 per 10

Learn more