Outemu Crystal Brown vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Crystal Brown and Outemu Milk Blue offer distinct typing experiences for enthusiasts to choose from. The Crystal Brown is a tactile switch, providing users with a satisfying bump feedback when pressed, making it ideal for those who prefer a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Milk Blue is a clicky switch, known for its audible click sound upon actuation, appealing to users who enjoy the auditory feedback while typing. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Both the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Outemu Milk Blue feature polycarbonate top housings which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, the housing material is the same for both switches, so users can expect similar sound profiles when using either switch.
On the other hand, the bottom housing material differs between the two switches, with the Crystal Brown featuring a nylon bottom housing while the Milk Blue also has a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to switches with harder plastics. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. Although the bottom housing material is different between the Crystal Brown and Milk Blue, both switches will provide a similar typing experience due to the shared nylon bottom housing material.
Ultimately, when comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Outemu Milk Blue, users can expect differences in sound profiles based on the top and bottom housing materials. The polycarbonate top housing of both switches creates a sharp and clear sound, while the nylon bottom housing provides a fuller and deeper sound experience. While each switch may have slight variations in sound due to their different bottom housing materials, the overall typing experience is likely to be quite similar between the Crystal Brown and Milk Blue.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it is evident that they have some differences. The Crystal Brown has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Milk Blue's 50 grams, making the Crystal Brown a lighter option. Additionally, the Crystal Brown has a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the bottom out force of the Milk Blue is unknown. This means that the Crystal Brown provides a more consistent typing experience in terms of force required, whereas the Milk Blue's bottom out force remains a mystery. Both switches offer their own unique characteristics, with the Crystal Brown being lighter overall and the Milk Blue potentially providing a different typing experience due to the unknown bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, both switches have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, the distance it travels from the top to the bottom will be consistent. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel and actuation point with both switches. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches allows for a consistent typing experience, regardless of the chosen switch type.
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 Crystal 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
In terms of sound, the Crystal Brown tactile switch is known for a quiet and subtle typing experience, making it ideal for environments where noise level is a concern. On the other hand, the Milk Blue clicky switch is known for producing a crisp and satisfying click sound with each keystroke, which can be both enjoyable for the user and potentially disruptive in quieter settings.
When it comes to feel, the Crystal Brown tactile switch is praised for its smooth and tactile feedback, providing a comfortable typing experience for those who prefer a more subtle tactile bump. In contrast, the Milk Blue clicky switch is known for its pronounced tactile feedback and audible click, offering a more pronounced typing sensation that some users find satisfying and responsive.
Overall, the Outemu Crystal Brown and Milk Blue switches offer distinct sound and feel profiles catered to different preferences. The Crystal Brown is favored for its quiet and smooth typing experience, while the Milk Blue is appreciated for its audible click and pronounced tactile feedback. Depending on your specific preferences for sound and feel, either of these switches can provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, the decision ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a smooth keystroke, the Crystal Brown may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky switch with a distinctive audible feedback and a more pronounced tactile bump, the Milk Blue switch could be the right fit. Consider the type of typing experience you prefer and the environment in which you will be using the keyboard when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your overall typing experience.
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