PH Studio Milk Tea vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Milk Tea switch is celebrated for its high-pitched yet muted sound, ideal for those who enjoy a balance between presence and subtlety during prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° switch is praised for its revolutionary self-padding design and dual-rail structure, providing unmatched smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise for silent typing. Each switch offers distinct characteristics that appeal to different users based on their typing preferences. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° play a significant role in shaping the sound profile of the switches. The Milk Tea utilizes a POM top housing, which results in a deeper and more muted sound. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0° features a polycarbonate top housing, offering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials are durable and commonly used in switch housings, the choice between POM and polycarbonate ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound characteristics.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Milk Tea incorporates a POM material, creating a similarly deep and muted sound profile as the top housing. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° employs a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The use of nylon in the bottom housing absorbs more sound than POM, resulting in a rounder and duller sound profile. This difference in bottom housing materials adds another layer of distinction between the two switches in terms of sound quality.
In the overall construction of the switches, it is important to note the impact of having different materials for the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key. While the Milk Tea and Zero Degree 0° differ in their housing materials, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between POM and polycarbonate for the top housing, as well as between POM and nylon for the bottom housing, will result in distinct typing experiences for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is clear that the Milk Tea is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. The Milk Tea has an actuation force of 37.5 grams and a bottom out force of 43.5 grams, while the Zero Degree 0° has an actuation force of 45 grams with an unknown bottom out force. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Milk Tea make it a more suitable option for users looking for a lighter typing experience, perfect for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Zero Degree 0° may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding typing force and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, it is clear that they provide a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the key travels from top to bottom. This means that users can expect consistent feedback and tactile response from both switches. Overall, both switches offer a similar level of travel distance, ensuring a smooth typing experience for users who prefer linear switches.
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 Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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
The PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch stands out for its unique auditory blend, offering a high-pitched yet muted sound that strikes a delicate balance between presence and subtlety. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is designed to revolutionize silent typing with its self-padding design and dual-rail structure, emphasizing smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that minimizes noise. While the sound qualities of both switches are not directly comparable due to the lack of information for the Zero Degree 0° switch, one can expect a more clacky and high-pitched sound from the Milk Tea switch.
When it comes to feel, the Milk Tea switch is described as polished and silky, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and effortless key travel. Conversely, there is no specific information available about the feel of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch. As a result, it is difficult to draw a direct comparison in this aspect.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch offer unique qualities in both sound and feel that cater to different preferences. While the Milk Tea switch is characterized by its distinct sound profile and polished, silky feel, the Zero Degree 0° switch prioritizes smoothness, stability, and noise reduction. Depending on personal preferences and typing needs, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, albeit with potentially differing results in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, consider your priorities. If you value a light bottom out force and a unique auditory blend that balances presence and subtlety, the Milk Tea may be the ideal choice for you. Its polished and silky feel, along with its high-pitched and clacky sound profile, make it a great option for prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, if you seek unparalleled smoothness, stability, and noise reduction in a linear switch, the Zero Degree 0° might be more suitable. Its self-padding design and dual-rail structure offer a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound effectively. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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