Cherry MX Orange vs. Outemu Milk Blue

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Orange and the Outemu Milk Blue present two distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The Cherry MX Orange switch is a linear switch, revered for its smooth and uninterrupted keystrokes, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists seeking speed and responsiveness without the distraction of tactile feedback. Its reissued MX2A enhancements promise a refined feel that caters to high demand for performance and reliability. In contrast, the Outemu Milk Blue switch is a clicky switch that offers a satisfying tactile bump and an audible click with each keystroke, providing a definitive feedback sensation that many typists adore for its enhanced tactile engagement. While the MX Orange is ideal for those who value smoothness and minimal resistance, the Milk Blue appeals to users who enjoy the auditory and tactile confirmation of their actions. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

Cherry MX Orange Linear

Outemu Milk Blue Clicky

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the Cherry MX Orange and Outemu Milk Blue switches, a notable difference lies in their top housing materials. The Cherry MX Orange features a nylon top housing that is known for its softer texture, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This sound absorption capability allows for a smoother auditory experience as the nylon captures more sound waves, creating a rounder tone that is often preferred by users seeking quieter switches. In contrast, the Outemu Milk Blue employs a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate allows sound to resonate more clearly, giving the switch a more pronounced auditory feedback and potentially making it more appealing for users who enjoy a more dynamic and stimulating typing experience.

In examining the bottom housing of both switches, we find a similarity that lends itself to a consistent acoustic quality. Both the Cherry MX Orange and the Outemu Milk Blue utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This shared material characteristics create a deeper and fuller sound profile when the keys are bottomed out. Since nylon is softer and effectively dampens sound, both switches will produce a similar auditory experience during this phase of keypress. Therefore, despite the differences in their top housings, users can expect a consistent sound experience when typing downwards on both switches, thus balancing out their distinctive top profiles.

The interaction between the top and bottom housing materials ultimately shapes the overall performance and sound of each switch. With the MX Orange's nylon top housing facilitating a more muted sound profile alongside nylon's characteristics in the bottom housing, the result is an overall softer typing experience. Conversely, the Outemu Milk Blue's polycarbonate top housing provides a bright auditory punctuation when the key is released, while the nylon bottom mitigates the impact of sound during bottoming out. Thus, while the MX Orange offers a cohesive deep and mellow typing experience, the Outemu Milk Blue contrasts this with a vibrant sound profile that combines its crisper top housing with the softer bottom's characteristics to yield a dynamic and engaging typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, we see some notable differences in their actuation forces. The Cherry MX Orange requires an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Outemu Milk Blue has a slightly lighter actuation force of 50 grams. This difference in weight might appeal to different user preferences; those who favor lighter switches may find the Milk Blue more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions, while users who prefer a heftier feel may lean towards the MX Orange. Both switches lack specified bottom out forces, so we can't directly compare that aspect; however, since we know that the MX Orange requires more force to actuate, it likely bottom out force is higher as well. Thus, based on their actuation forces, the MX Orange is the heavier option, making it suitable for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience, while the Milk Blue is the lighter choice for those looking for less fatigue during prolonged use.

Travel distance

Both the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch feature the same travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that users will experience an equal distance when pressing down on these keys. Consequently, both switches can provide similar results in terms of key feel and actuation point, which can make them appealing options for different types of typists or gamers. Since both switches have the same travel distance, neither can be categorized as shorter or longer, reinforcing that both switches offer a similar tactile experience during use.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Orange switch is generally known for its quiet operation, producing a subtle and smooth keystroke that minimizes noise, making it suitable for office environments or shared spaces. In contrast, the Outemu Milk Blue switch is characterized by a pronounced click sound with each keystroke, providing an audible feedback that many typists find satisfying. This difference in sound profile can influence your typing experience, depending on your personal preference for auditory feedback, with the Milk Blue offering a more traditional clicky experience while the MX Orange keeps things understated and discreet.

Regarding feel, the Cherry MX Orange switch is lauded for its linear characteristic, offering a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile bumps or clicks. This translates to a fluid typing experience, favored by gamers and typists who prefer uninterrupted movement. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue switch provides a tactile bump at the actuation point followed by a click, giving users both a discernible response and auditory feedback. This makes the Milk Blue suitable for those who enjoy a more dynamic and engaging typing experience, as it allows for better finger placement awareness during typing.

In summary, the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch cater to different preferences in both sound and feel. If you value a quieter, smoother experience, the MX Orange is an excellent choice. Meanwhile, if you're drawn to the satisfying clicks and tactile feedback, the Milk Blue would be more appealing. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a silent operation or a more pronounced typing feedback, with both switches offering their own unique advantages.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch ultimately depends on your typing style and preferences. If you prefer a smooth and quiet typing experience, where you can focus on your tasks without the distraction of loud clicks, the MX Orange would be a great fit. It is designed for those who enjoy the subtlety of linear switches and want to avoid any tactile feedback or noise. On the other hand, if you thrive on auditory feedback and enjoy the satisfying click that comes with each key press, the Milk Blue switch is the way to go. This switch not only provides a pronounced clicking sound that many typists find rewarding, but it also offers a tactile bump that enhances the sensation of typing. Therefore, if you want a quieter environment, choose the MX Orange; however, if you prefer a more engaging and feedback-rich experience, the Milk Blue will likely satisfy your desires. Ultimately, it’s about what enhances your enjoyment and productivity in your typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Orange Linear

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Milk Blue Clicky

$3.10 per 10

Learn more