Gateron Mini i vs. Outemu Milk Peach
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Milk Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Milk Peach offer unique characteristics to consider. The Gateron Mini i is a tactile switch that provides a subtle and satisfying tactility with each keystroke, making it perfect for office settings where a quiet and professional typing experience is preferred. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Peach is a linear switch with no tactile bump, offering a smooth and consistent typing experience. While the Gateron Mini i is bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, and subtle, the Outemu Milk Peach lacks any specific defining characteristics. Both switches have their own advantages, but diving deeper into their individual features and user experiences can help you make the best decision for your specific typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Milk Peach, one key difference lies in the material used for the top housing. The Mini i features a nylon top housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Milk Peach's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. This disparity in material results in distinct sound characteristics, with the Mini i offering a more rounded sound while the Milk Peach delivers a clearer and resonant tone.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Milk Peach utilize nylon material. This choice of housing material in the bottom portion of the switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon's softness allows for greater sound absorption compared to harder plastics. Despite having the same material for the bottom housing, the switches may still exhibit differences in sound and feel due to other factors such as switch design and construction. However, the use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that both switches maintain a similar overall sound quality in terms of depth and richness.
Overall, the contrasting top housing materials of the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Milk Peach significantly impact the sound profiles of these switches. While the Mini i's nylon top housing produces a duller and rounder sound, the Milk Peach's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper tone. This difference contributes to a unique auditory experience for each switch, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Despite sharing nylon as the material for the bottom housing, the switches may still offer distinct tactile sensations and sound characteristics based on their respective designs and other factors beyond housing material.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch, it is clear that the Mini i is the lighter option. The Mini i has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Milk Peach has an actuation force of 45 grams, with no information available for the bottom out force. The lower actuation force of the Mini i makes it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the Milk Peach may appeal to those who prefer a slightly heavier keystroke feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and the desired weight of the keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them popular among gamers for their faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to the average user. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on personal preference for a slightly longer travel distance in the Mini i or a slightly shorter travel distance in the Milk Peach.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00, whereas the Outemu Milk Peach comes in at $3.10.
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 Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of environments such as office or home. It strikes a good balance between a satisfying feedback of typing and a fairly muted sound, catering to those looking for a quiet yet tactile typing experience. On the other hand, information regarding the sound profile of the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch is not available, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped. These qualities provide a comfortable and responsive typing experience, with a gentle resistance and a spring-like feedback that enhances the overall typing feel. In contrast, information on the feel of the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch is not provided, so it's challenging to determine how it compares to the Mini i in terms of typing sensation.
Taking into account the available information, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch seems to offer a versatile and well-rounded typing experience, suitable for those seeking a balance between tactility and quiet operation. While the specific qualities of the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch are unknown in this comparison, it's important to consider personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches are likely to provide a satisfactory typing experience, but individual factors such as typing speed, pressure preference, and typing environment should be taken into consideration when making a decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch, consider your specific needs and preferences. If you value a lightweight switch with gentle tactility, ideal for long hours of typing in a quiet office environment, then the Gateron Mini i may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a linear switch with an unknown bottom out force and no specific characteristics described, the Outemu Milk Peach may not provide the same level of clarity and consistency in its performance. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and working environment to enhance your overall typing experience.
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