PH Studio Milk Tea vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Milk Tea and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Milk Tea and the KTT Wine Red both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Milk Tea, a linear switch manufactured by BSUN, boasts a high-pitched yet muted sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a gentle balance between presence and subtlety during typing sessions. With an accessible bottom-out weight of 43.5g and a stem material made of Ly, every keystroke feels effortless, perfect for prolonged typing needs. On the other hand, the Wine Red linear switch provides a pillowy light type feel and a deep, rich sound profile, appealing to those who enjoy a more bassy and low-pitched typing experience. 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
44g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Milk Tea and the KTT Wine Red, it is evident that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Milk Tea features a POM top and bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Wine Red incorporates a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch, the POM housing of the Milk Tea provides a more subdued sound compared to the more pronounced sound produced by the polycarbonate housing of the Wine Red.
Aesthetically, the choice of housing material also plays a significant role in the design of these switches. The translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for the integration of RGB lighting, making the Wine Red a visually appealing option for those who prioritize customizable lighting effects. In contrast, the opaque nature of POM used in the Milk Tea provides a more understated appearance without the same level of customization. This difference in material choice not only impacts the visual appeal of the switches but also influences the overall sound profile they produce, with the polycarbonate housing of the Wine Red offering a crisper and more resonant sound compared to the muted sound of the POM housing in the Milk Tea.
While the top and bottom housings of the Milk Tea and Wine Red offer distinct sound profiles due to their different materials, both switches share the commonality of prioritizing the tactile and auditory experience of the user. Despite the differences in sound produced by the POM and polycarbonate housings, both materials are chosen for their unique properties that enhance the overall typing experience. Whether it be the deeper and more muted sound of the POM housing in the Milk Tea or the sharper and crisper sound of the polycarbonate housing in the Wine Red, both switches are designed to cater to the preferences of users seeking a tactile and acoustically pleasing typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, we can see that the Milk Tea is lighter with an actuation force of 37.5 grams and a bottom out force of 43.5 grams. On the other hand, the Wine Red is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 44 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience, but the Milk Tea offers a lighter touch ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Wine Red provides a slightly stronger push for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for typing force and experience desired.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which makes it slightly shorter than the KTT Wine Red linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Milk Tea switch falls into the category of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. On the other hand, the Wine Red switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a deeper and more deliberate press for those who prefer a more substantial feel. Both switches have their advantages depending on personal preference, with the Milk Tea offering quick responsiveness while the Wine Red provides a more traditional typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual typing style and preference.
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 KTT Wine Red comes in at $2.71 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
In terms of sound, the Milk Tea linear switch offers a unique blend of a high-pitched yet muted sound, providing a balance between presence and subtlety. It is described as clacky, high-pitched, marbly, and resonant, making it ideal for those who prefer a sharp and clean auditory experience. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red linear switch is characterized by a deep and rich sound profile, offering a pillowy light type feel. Its sound is described as bassy and low-pitched, providing a satisfyingly mellow tone during typing sessions. Depending on personal preference, the Milk Tea switch may cater to those who enjoy a sharper sound, while the Wine Red switch may appeal to individuals who prefer a deeper, bass-heavy tone.
When it comes to feel, the Milk Tea switch boasts a polished and silky typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish that enhances key travel and reduces friction. This switch is designed for effortless keystrokes, making it an excellent choice for prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, information on the feel of the KTT Wine Red switch is not provided. However, based on the description of its sound profile as pillowy and satisfying, it may offer a comfortable and cushioned typing feel.
Overall, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences. The Milk Tea switch is best suited for individuals who appreciate a high-pitched, clacky sound and a polished, silky typing feel, ideal for prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red switch caters to those who prefer a deep, bassy sound profile and a pillowy light type feel during typing. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both switches provide unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you value a light bottom-out force and a unique auditory experience with a high-pitched yet gentle sound profile, the Milk Tea switch may be the ideal choice for you. It is designed for prolonged typing sessions and offers a polished and silky typing feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force and enjoy a deep and rich sound profile with a pillowy light type feel, the Wine Red switch may be more suited to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the sound and feel that resonate with you the most, ensuring a satisfying typing experience.
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