PH Studio Milk Tea vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch offer distinct characteristics catering to different preferences. The Milk Tea switch is praised for its high-pitched yet muted auditory profile, providing a gentle balance between presence and subtlety. With a low bottom-out force of 43.5g, it is designed for extended typing sessions, making it an ideal choice for those who type extensively. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch stands out for its smoothness and noticeable tactile bump, paired with a neutral sound signature. While the Milk Tea switch is described as 'Clacky' and 'Resonant', the WS Light Tactile switch is labeled as 'Stepped' and 'Easy-to-press'. Both switches have their unique advantages, offering users different typing experiences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Polycarbonate
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
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile, we see a significant difference in the materials used. The Milk Tea utilizes POM for both top and bottom housings, which creates a deep and muted sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing produces a sharp, high-pitched sound, perfect for RGB lighting effects, while the nylon bottom housing generates a deeper and fuller sound, absorbing more noise for a duller and rounder sound profile.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The POM housing of the Milk Tea creates a pleasing and deep sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the WS Light Tactile produces a sharper and crisper sound. However, both switches excel in providing a unique and enjoyable typing experience, showcasing the importance of housing materials in the overall sound profile of a switch.
It is essential to note that the choice of housing materials in a switch can greatly impact the typing experience. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of a key press, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the combination of POM top and bottom housings in the Milk Tea and the use of polycarbonate and nylon in the WS Light Tactile showcase how different materials can enhance various aspects of sound production in mechanical switches. Ultimately, both switches offer distinctive qualities that appeal to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that both switches fall into the lighter force category. The Milk Tea has an actuation force of 37.5 grams and a bottom out force of 43.5 grams, while the WS Light Tactile has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. In terms of weight, both switches are on the lighter side, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience that allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. However, those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience may find the WS Light Tactile slightly heavier than the Milk Tea. Overall, both switches offer a lighter typing experience, but with slight variations in 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 Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Milk Tea offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice for gamers looking for speed and precision in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch's longer travel distance provides a more satisfying depth to each keystroke, appealing to users who prefer a more tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience desired.
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 Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile comes in at $4.20 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 PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch stands out for its unique blend of a high-pitched, yet somewhat muted sound profile that strikes a balance between presence and subtlety. This results in a gentle and pleasant auditory experience that is not too overwhelming. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch is known for its neutral sound signature, which means it has a moderate sound profile that is suitable for various settings and preferences. Both switches offer different sound qualities, with the Milk Tea leaning towards a higher-pitched and distinctive sound, while the WS Light Tactile provides a more balanced and versatile auditory output.
When it comes to feel, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch is praised for its polished and silky typing experience, thanks to the smooth and refined finish that enhances the overall typing feel. This results in reduced friction and effortless key travel, making typing a seamless and enjoyable task. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch offers a different tactile experience. It is described as stepped, meaning it provides a two-stage tactile response with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation. Additionally, it is recognized for being easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate the keys, thus reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Milk Tea switch provides a unique high-pitched and polished typing experience, while the WS Light Tactile switch offers a neutral sound signature and a stepped, easy-to-press tactile feel. Depending on individual preferences and typing needs, users can choose between these two switches to achieve their desired typing experience. It is important to consider factors like board choice and keycaps to further customize and enhance the overall sound and feel of the keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, you should consider the specific qualities each switch offers. If you prefer a light and easy-to-press switch with a unique auditory blend that is ideal for prolonged typing sessions, then the Milk Tea switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a smooth and neutral switch with a moderate tactile bump that offers a comfortable typing experience suitable for various purposes, then the WS Light Tactile switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing style, preferences, and intended use for the keyboard.
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