Outemu Milk Blue vs. Outemu Purple
An in-depth look at the Outemu Milk Blue and the Outemu Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Milk Blue, a clicky switch, and the Outemu Purple, a tactile switch. The Milk Blue switch is known for its satisfying audible click sound that provides a tactile feedback with each key press. On the other hand, the Purple switch offers a tactile bump without the audible click, making it a more subtle option for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. While the Milk Blue switch is ideal for those who enjoy the audible feedback and precise typing, the Purple switch is favored by users who prefer a tactile sensation with a quieter operation. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
The Outemu Milk Blue and Outemu Purple switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Milk Blue and Purple switches have nylon bottom housings, which produce a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Despite both switches sharing polycarbonate top housings, the key difference lies in the bottom housings. The Milk Blue's nylon bottom housing offers a different typing experience compared to the Purple's nylon bottom housing. The impact of the bottom housing is more significant on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing on the switch. Conversely, the top housing plays a greater role in the sound produced when releasing a key. This split in housing materials allows users to experience a variety of sound profiles based on their typing style and preferences. Overall, while the top housings may offer similar characteristics, the bottom housings of the Milk Blue and Purple switches provide a distinct typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch both have an actuation force of 50 grams, meaning that the force required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both switches. However, the bottom out force for both switches is unknown, so it is unclear how much force is needed to press the keys all the way down. In terms of weight, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of both switches, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, those who prefer a heavier push feel may find a more substantial typing experience with either switch. Overall, while the actuation force is the same for both switches, the bottom out force remains a mystery, leaving room for different preferences in typing experiences.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent travel distance from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance means that regardless of whether you choose the Milk Blue clicky switch or the Purple tactile switch, you can expect to get a similar typing experience in terms of how far the keys travel when pressed. Both switches provide a satisfying feeling and response due to their identical travel distances.
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 Purple.
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 Milk Blue clicky switch is known for its crisp and audible click sound, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple tactile switch provides a more subtle and tactile bump without the loud click, offering a quieter typing experience while still providing feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Milk Blue switch is often described as having a light and responsive feel with a noticeable actuation point, giving typists a satisfying sensation with each keystroke. In contrast, the Purple switch is known for its smooth and tactile bump, providing a more cushioned feel for those who prefer a softer typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a loud and clicky typing experience with a light feel, the Milk Blue switch may be the better option for you. However, if you value a quieter typing experience with a more tactile bump, the Purple switch would be the way to go. Both switches offer quality construction and reliable performance, so you can expect similar results in terms of durability and longevity.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it all comes down to personal preference and what aspects are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch. If you prioritize a loud and clicky typing experience, the Milk Blue switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile and responsive keypress without the loud clicky sound, the Purple switch might be the way to go. Ultimately, consider your typing style, environment, and personal preferences to determine which switch will provide you with the best typing experience.
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