Cherry MX Black vs. Outemu Milk Tea

Overview

When comparing the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Milk Tea mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that they offer contrasting typing experiences. The Cherry MX Black is a linear switch that is best known for its low-pitched, textured feel and stiff actuation. With Cherry's Hyperglide tooling, these switches provide a classic smoothness with a deep sound profile while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Tea is a tactile switch with a unique name but lacks specific standout features. Those looking for a consistent typing experience with a noticeable tactile bump may be drawn to the Milk Tea. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Cherry MX Black Linear

Outemu Milk Tea Tactile

$4.00 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

Both the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Milk Tea switches use nylon top housings, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softness of nylon. However, the Milk Tea's top housing is described as offering a brighter sound signature compared to the MX Black, providing a more resonant clack when typing. This difference in sound characteristics may appeal to different preferences in typing experience, with the Milk Tea offering a more vibrant sound compared to the more muted sound of the MX Black.

In terms of bottom housing material, both the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Milk Tea switches utilize nylon, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that creates a unique typing experience. With both switches sharing the same bottom housing material, users can expect a similar typing feel and bottom-out sound when using either switch, highlighting the consistent quality that nylon brings to switch housings.

Overall, while both the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Milk Tea switches share nylon bottom housings, they differ in the top housing material used. The MX Black's nylon top housing offers a deeper sound profile, while the Milk Tea's Ly top housing produces a brighter sound signature. This contrast in sound characteristics showcases how the choice of housing material can impact the overall typing experience, providing users with options to match their preferences for typing sound and feel. Regardless of these differences, the consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a similar typing experience in terms of bottom-out sound and feel for both switches.

Weight

The Cherry MX Black linear switch is heavier, with an 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 comparison, the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to type for longer periods without fatigue. The bottom out force for the Milk Tea switch is unknown, but the lack of this information suggests that it may be similar to the actuation force, allowing for a consistent typing experience throughout. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight sensitivity.

Travel distance

Both the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, their travel distance is identical, resulting in a similar typing experience. This means that whether you choose the MX Black or the Milk Tea switch, you can expect consistent key travel and feel while typing. The 4 mm travel distance of both switches ensures a smooth and satisfying typing experience, making them both reliable options for keyboard enthusiasts.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is characterized by a low-pitched and deep sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory experience for typists. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch remains unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.

In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Black switch offers a textured and slightly stiff typing experience, providing tactile feedback and a sense of precision when typing. The Outemu Milk Tea switch, unfortunately, does not have available information on its tactile feel, making it challenging to compare directly to the MX Black in this regard.

Overall, based on the information provided, it can be concluded that the Cherry MX Black linear switch offers a deep and low-pitched sound profile, along with a textured and slightly stiff typing experience. While the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch lacks specific information on sound and feel, it is worth noting that the subjective qualities of mechanical keyboard switches can vary based on personal preferences. Ultimately, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on individual preferences, and experimenting with different switches is the best way to determine which one suits your typing style the best.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, consider your typing preference and needs. If you prefer a heavier switch with a smooth, deep sound profile and a textured feel, the Cherry MX Black may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a lighter switch with a tactile bump and a more undefined sound and feel, the Outemu Milk Tea may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for your typing style.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Black Linear

$4.00 per 10

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Outemu Milk Tea Tactile

$3.10 per 10

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