PH Studio Milk Tea vs. HMX Vintage Citrus
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Milk Tea and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the nuances between options can greatly influence your typing or gaming experience. The PH Studio Milk Tea switch from BSUN stands out with its unique auditory profile—a high-pitched yet muted sound that balances presence and subtlety, providing a polished feel that makes each keystroke effortless. With its silky and resonant qualities, this linear switch is perfect for those who appreciate a more refined auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch is specifically designed for gamers, featuring a remarkably low actuation force of just 1mm, which allows for lightning-fast inputs during intense gaming sessions. Its bright, clacky sound profile and smooth push feel make it an exhilarating choice for competitive play. Each switch caters to different preferences: the Milk Tea for a sophisticated typing experience, and the Vintage Citrus for rapid-fire action. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.00 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
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The PH Studio Milk Tea and HMX Vintage Citrus both utilize materials that contribute to a deeper and more muted sound profile; however, the specific materials differ significantly in their composition. The Milk Tea features both a POM top and bottom housing, known for creating a unique sound that is generally more subdued. POM, or polyoxymethylene, is a harder plastic which results in a distinctive sound signature that combines a dampened auditory experience with a relatively stable feel. Consequently, the Milk Tea gives users a consistent and pleasing sound when typing, characterized by a unique timbre due to the uniform material throughout both housings.
In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus opts for nylon in both its top and bottom housings, a classic choice that also aims for a deeper sound profile. However, nylon is a softer plastic than POM, which grants the Vintage Citrus a fuller sound during use. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, contributing to a duller and rounder acoustic experience compared to the more rigid characteristics of the POM material. This fundamental difference means that while both switches produce a deeper sound profile, the means by which they achieve this effect vary; the Vintage Citrus’s sound is enriched by the properties of nylon, creating a distinct tactile experience when typing.
Despite the differences in materials, users can achieve similar auditory experiences with both switches. While the PH Studio Milk Tea provides a nuanced, unique sound through the combination of its POM housings, the HMX Vintage Citrus delivers a richer, fuller sound profile through its nylon composition. If one were to use these switches in a keyboard, the Milk Tea might excel in a more nuanced sound profile suitable for an isolated environment, while the Vintage Citrus could shine in a space where echoes and surrounding noise would complement its rounded acoustics. Ultimately, the choice between these switches can depend on personal preference, as both deliver satisfying results in their unique ways.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, notable differences arise. The Milk Tea switch features a lighter actuation force of 37.5 grams and a bottom out force of 43.5 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer less resistance for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus switch has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, which offers a medium-light resistance that some users might find provides a more substantial typing experience. Therefore, while both switches cater to different preferences, the Milk Tea is the lighter option, appealing to users who prioritize a softer touch, whereas the Vintage Citrus caters to those who enjoy a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, there is a clear distinction. The Milk Tea switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Vintage Citrus measures a shorter 3.0 mm. This difference highlights the Milk Tea's more pronounced feel, appealing to those who appreciate a bit of depth in their keystrokes, as it provides a more tactile experience. Conversely, the Vintage Citrus, with its shorter travel distance, caters to gamers looking for quicker response times and more immediate feedback, though some users might find it too abrupt. Ultimately, if you're looking for a heartier feedback sensation, the Milk Tea would be the better choice, while for fast-paced gameplay, the Vintage Citrus would be more suitable.
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 HMX Vintage Citrus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vintage Citrus for $2.79.
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 comparing the auditory experiences of the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, the Milk Tea takes the lead with its distinctively high-pitched sound profile that displays a muted essence, striking a balance between clear presence and subtlety. The auditory characteristics of the Milk Tea can be categorized as clacky, resonant, and marbly, offering a crisp and bright typing sound that many users find pleasant. On the other hand, the Vintage Citrus switch lacks detailed sound descriptions, making it harder to gauge its auditory appeal; however, its designation as a gaming switch implies a potentially sharper auditory experience that could also cater to fast-paced typing scenarios.
In terms of tactile feel, the Milk Tea switch excels with its polished and silky characteristics, promoting a smooth and refined typing experience that minimizes resistance. This quality is likely attributed to the materials used in the switch and potential factory lubing, leading to a reduced friction and a seamless key travel experience. The Vintage Citrus switch, while designed for rapid actuation, does not provide specific details on its tactile quality, leaving its feel somewhat ambiguous. However, its low actuation force of just 1mm suggests it could also provide a desirable typing experience for those who prioritize speed.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch stands out with its unique sound and smooth feel, making it a versatile choice for various typing demands. The lower actuation force of the Vintage Citrus indicates a focus on quick responsiveness, although it lacks comprehensive details concerning its auditory and tactile characteristics. Ultimately, while both switches cater to slightly different user needs, the Milk Tea may deliver a more refined overall experience, while the Vintage Citrus remains an intriguing option for those seeking fast-paced typing with potential unknown attributes.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch largely depends on your specific typing and gaming preferences. If you prefer a lighter keystroke with a unique auditory experience that balances a gentle presence with a high-pitched, muted sound, the Milk Tea switch may be the ideal option for you. It's particularly well-suited for those who value a smooth and polished feel in their keystrokes, allowing for effortless typing and general use. On the other hand, if your focus is on gaming, especially for quick, rapid-fire inputs, the Vintage Citrus switch would be more advantageous due to its low actuation force and enhanced responsiveness. The distinct clacky sound and smooth push feel can enhance your gaming performance and provide auditory feedback that gamers often appreciate. Thus, consider your primary use case—whether casual typing or competitive gaming—as this will help you make the best choice between these two appealing linear switches.
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