Cherry MX Black vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Black and Outemu Milk Blue offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The Cherry MX Black is a linear switch known for its smooth texture and deep sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a quiet typing experience with a stiff feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue is a clicky switch that provides a satisfying tactile feedback with each key press. While the MX Black is best for those looking for a low-pitched and textured typing experience, the Milk Blue is suitable for users who enjoy a more pronounced click sound. 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
60g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Milk Blue switches, one can see distinct differences in the sound profiles they produce. The MX Black's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic, which absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Milk Blue's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound with its stiffer plastic, resulting in a more resonant sound profile. While both materials have their own benefits, the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Despite the differences in top housing materials, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures that users will experience a similar typing feel and sound when using either the MX Black or the Milk Blue switches. While the top housing may have a bigger impact on the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the overall typing experience by influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, the choice between the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Milk Blue ultimately boils down to the user's preferences in sound and feel. While the MX Black's nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound, the Milk Blue's polycarbonate top housing produces a clearer and more resonant sound. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, ensuring a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel. Whether one prefers a deeper and fuller sound or a sharper and crisper sound, there is a housing material that can cater to individual preferences and enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Cherry MX Black linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, making it easier to type for longer periods without feeling fatigued. Unfortunately, the bottom out force for the Milk Blue is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter key press, the Milk Blue would be the better option, while the MX Black would be more suited for individuals who prefer a heavier keystroke. Overall, the MX Black is heavier in both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Milk Blue, providing different typing experiences for users.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing them, they both provide a consistent travel distance that users can rely on for tactile feedback while typing or gaming. This means that regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect a similar experience in terms of how far the switch travels when pressed. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches ensures that users will get similar results in terms of keypress feel and overall typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00, whereas the Outemu Milk Blue 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
In terms of sound, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is known for its low-pitched sound that offers a deep and mellow tone while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch does not have any specific sound qualities mentioned, so it is difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by external factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Cherry MX Black is recognized for its textured and stiff qualities. The textured nature of the switch provides a noticeable friction sensation when pressed, which some users may prefer for tactile feedback. Additionally, the stiffness of the MX Black switch requires a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out, giving a more resistant typing experience. Unfortunately, information regarding the feel of the Outemu Milk Blue switch is not available, making it challenging to directly compare the two switches in this regard.
Overall, the Cherry MX Black linear switch stands out with its low-pitched sound and textured, stiff feel. While the specific sound and feel qualities of the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch are unknown, it is important to consider personal preferences and typing habits when choosing between these two switches. If you enjoy a deep, mellow sound and prefer a textured, stiff feel, the MX Black may be the better option for you. Additionally, experimenting with different switches and setups can help determine the best fit for your typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a heavy switch with a smooth typing experience and a deep sound profile, the Cherry MX Black linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a lighter feel and a tactile feedback while typing, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for typing experience, sound profile, and bottom out force. Consider what features are most important to you in a keyboard switch and choose accordingly.
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