Outemu Milk Blue vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the Outemu Milk Blue and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Outemu Milk Blue, a clicky switch, and the Outemu Ocean, a tactile switch. The Milk Blue switch is known for its satisfying click sound and tactile feedback, providing a great typing experience for those who enjoy auditory and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Ocean switch offers a quieter typing experience with a subtle tactile bump, ideal for those who prefer a more subtle tactile feedback. Both switches have their own 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
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Milk Blue and Outemu Ocean switches both use polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic that creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Despite both switches having the same material for their top housing, the overall sound and typing experience may vary due to other factors such as the bottom housing material.
In contrast, the Milk Blue and Ocean switches differ in their bottom housing material, with the Milk Blue using nylon and the Ocean also utilizing nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, contributing to the overall typing experience of the switches. While both switches share the same material for their bottom housing, the subtle differences in sound and feel may be noticeable to users who are attuned to the nuances of mechanical keyboards.
When a switch features different top and bottom housing materials, the qualities brought by each material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This division of housing materials allows for a more nuanced typing experience, as the characteristics of both the top and bottom housing contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch. Ultimately, whether using the Outemu Milk Blue or Outemu Ocean switches, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials creates a unique typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, but it is safe to assume that they are likely to be similar given the slight difference in actuation force. The lighter actuation force of the Milk Blue switch may make it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Ocean switch's slightly heavier actuation force may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation force and typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that regardless of which switch you choose, you will experience a similar keypress feel and travel distance when typing. The consistent 4 mm travel distance on both switches ensures that users will have a familiar typing experience, regardless of which switch they prefer. This similarity in travel distance allows for consistent muscle memory when typing on keyboards that use either of these switches.
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 Milk Blue and Ocean.
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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is known for its crisp and audible click with each keystroke, providing a satisfying auditory feedback that some users find to be quite loud. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch offers a quieter typing experience as it lacks the audible click of the Milk Blue, instead focusing on a subtle bump during actuation. The sound produced by both switches can be further impacted by the keycap material and keyboard case construction, leading to a personalized typing experience based on individual preferences.
In terms of feel, the Milk Blue switch is recognized for its light actuation force and tactile bump, resulting in a responsive typing experience that some users find to be smooth and enjoyable. Conversely, the Ocean tactile switch offers a more pronounced tactile feedback with a noticeable bump during actuation, providing a distinct typing feel that some users prefer for increased accuracy and precision. The choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of typing style and desired level of feedback.
In conclusion, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and Outemu Ocean tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard users. While the Milk Blue provides a louder and more tactile typing experience, the Ocean switch offers a quieter and more pronounced tactile feedback. Both switches can be customized with various keycaps and keyboard configurations to further enhance the typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a loud and clicky typing experience with the Milk Blue or a quieter and more tactile feel with the Ocean switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, you should consider your preference for clickiness and tactility. If you enjoy a crisp and audible typing experience with a satisfying click, the Milk Blue switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile bump without the loud clicking noise, the Ocean switch is the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize sound and feedback or prefer a quieter and more tactile typing experience.
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