Outemu Brown vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the Outemu Brown and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Brown and Outemu Milk Blue switches. The Outemu Brown switch is a tactile switch, providing a subtle bump feedback when pressed without making much noise. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue switch is a clicky switch, offering a more pronounced click sound with each keystroke. Depending on your preference, the Brown switch may be ideal for a quieter typing experience, while the Milk Blue switch could be suited for those who enjoy the audible feedback while typing. 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
53g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Brown and the Outemu Milk Blue switches, it is evident that both utilize a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches intended for RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the keyboard. However, the key difference lies in the bottom housing material used for these switches. The Brown features a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound, creating a rounder sound. Conversely, the Milk Blue also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing similar sound characteristics to the Brown switch.
Despite the similarities in their top housing material, the Outemu Brown and the Outemu Milk Blue switches showcase differences in their bottom housing, which impact the overall sound profile and feel. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller typing experience, absorbing sound and creating a duller, rounder tone compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. The split between the bottom and top housing qualities means that the bottom-out sound and feel are influenced by the bottom housing, while the release sound is more impacted by the top housing. This distinction highlights the importance of both housing materials in determining the overall typing experience of a keyboard equipped with these switches.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Brown and the Outemu Milk Blue switches share the benefits of a polycarbonate top housing in delivering a sharp and crisp sound profile, their choice of nylon bottom housing sets them apart in terms of sound characteristics. The use of nylon in the bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, resulting in a different typing experience compared to switches with a polycarbonate bottom housing. Understanding the impact of both housing materials on sound and feel is crucial for keyboard enthusiasts looking to customize their typing experience based on their preferences for sound quality and tactile feedback.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Outemu Brown has a slightly higher actuation force of 53 grams compared to the Milk Blue's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Brown requires 65 grams while the Milk Blue's bottom out force is not specified. The Brown switch provides a medium-heavy typing feel, suitable for those who prefer a more substantial push. On the other hand, the Milk Blue switch offers a lighter actuation force, which may appeal to users looking for a more effortless typing experience. Both switches may provide similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, but the slight differences in weight may cater to individual preferences for typing comfort and feedback. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on whether the user prefers a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is the same at 4 mm. This means that you will feel a similar keystroke experience when pressing down on keys with either switch. Both switches offer a comfortable travel distance for typists and gamers alike, allowing for efficient and satisfying key presses. While the Brown switch provides a smooth tactile feedback, the Milk Blue switch offers a clicky sound with each press. Despite this difference in sound, both switches have an equal travel distance, making them equally suitable for different preferences and needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $3.10. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Brown and Milk Blue.
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 Outemu Brown tactile switch is often praised for its quiet and smooth keystrokes, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is known for its satisfying click sound with each key press, providing auditory feedback that some users find enjoyable. When it comes to sound, the Brown switch is considerably quieter compared to the Milk Blue switch, which produces a distinct clicking noise.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Brown switch offers a tactile bump that provides feedback to the typist when the key actuates, enhancing the typing experience for those who enjoy a tactile response. Conversely, the Outemu Milk Blue switch also provides tactile feedback but with the addition of an audible click, making each keystroke more pronounced and satisfying for users who prefer a more tactile and clicky feel while typing.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch depends on personal preference. If you prefer a quieter typing experience with a subtle tactile feedback, the Brown switch would be more suitable. However, if you enjoy a more audible and clicky typing experience with tactile feedback, the Milk Blue switch may be the better option. Both switches offer their unique qualities, providing users with a customizable typing experience based on their preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, you should opt for the Brown if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a tactile feedback without the loud clicky sound. The Brown switch is perfect for those who want a balance between typing comfort and feedback. On the other hand, choose the Milk Blue switch if you enjoy a light and effortless key press with a satisfying clicky sound. The Milk Blue switch is ideal for those who prioritize auditory feedback and enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of typing feel, sound, and bottom out force.
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