Cherry MX Silent Red vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, you may come across the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Outemu Milk Blue switches, two popular options with distinct features. The Cherry MX Silent Red is a linear switch that offers a slightly heavier feel compared to the MX Red, but with the added benefit of silent operation. Perfect for noise-sensitive environments, this switch provides a satisfying typing experience with a significantly quieter sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue is a clicky switch that lacks any specific standout feature besides its unique name. While the Cherry MX Silent Red is described as muted, thocky, low-pitched, and textured, the Milk Blue falls under a different category. If you're looking for a quieter typing experience, the Cherry MX Silent Red may be the way to go. However, let's delve a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can make the best decision regarding the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Outemu Milk Blue, it is clear that they both utilize nylon for the bottom housing. This means that both switches will offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softness of the nylon plastic, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. However, since the top housing of the MX Silent Red is nylon while the Milk Blue boasts a polycarbonate top housing, there will be a noticeable difference in sound profile. The polycarbonate material in the Milk Blue will create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound compared to the MX Silent Red, which may appeal to users looking for a more clear and resonant sound.
Furthermore, the aesthetic differences between the two switches are also worth noting. The polycarbonate top housing of the Milk Blue allows for a clear housing, which is ideal for those looking to showcase RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the MX Silent Red may not be as visually appealing in terms of RGB illumination. Despite this difference, both switches still offer similar qualities in terms of sound profile and feel due to their shared nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, the decision between the two may come down to personal preference regarding sound, aesthetics, and lighting options.
Overall, while both the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Outemu Milk Blue utilize nylon for their bottom housing, the choice of material for the top housing sets them apart. The nylon top housing of the MX Silent Red creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Milk Blue delivers a sharper and crisper sound. It is important to consider how the top and bottom housing materials will impact the overall typing experience, as the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, making it essential for users to prioritize what aspects are most important to them when selecting a switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it is clear that the MX Silent Red is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Milk Blue's 50 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force. The lighter actuation force of the MX Silent Red may be preferable for those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, as it requires less effort to press each key. On the other hand, the Milk Blue's slightly heavier actuation force may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7mm, while the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4mm. This makes the Milk Blue switch the longer one of the two. The shorter travel distance of the MX Silent Red can provide a faster response time, which is favored by gamers. In contrast, the longer travel distance of the Milk Blue switch may provide a more satisfying depth for some users. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their travel distances, but ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on individual preferences for responsiveness and key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
The Outemu Milk Blue comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch is known for its muted, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, offering a quieter typing experience compared to other mechanical switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch does not have any specific sound descriptors provided. When it comes to feel, the MX Silent Red is described as textured, which can provide a different tactile experience for users who prefer a bit of friction when typing. Unfortunately, there is no information available on the feel of the Milk Blue switch.
Overall, if you are looking for a quieter typing experience with a slightly textured feel, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch would be the ideal choice. However, if you are considering the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it is important to note that its sound and feel characteristics are currently unknown. It is recommended to test out both switches in person or conduct further research to determine which one suits your preferences best.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that provides a satisfying typing experience with a significantly quieter sound profile, then the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch that offers a more tactile and audible feedback, then the Outemu Milk Blue switch might be the better option. Ultimately, it all comes down to personal preference and the environment in which you will be using your keyboard. Happy typing!
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