Outemu Milk Blue vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the Outemu Milk Blue and the Outemu Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Milk Blue and Outemu Red offer users different experiences based on their design and functionality. The Milk Blue switch is a clicky switch, known for producing a satisfying click sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Red switch is a linear switch, providing a smooth and quiet typing experience. Those who enjoy the audible feedback and tactile response of a clicky switch may prefer the Milk Blue, while individuals who prioritize a quieter and more consistent typing experience may lean towards the Red switch. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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 the Outemu Red switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This results in a more clear and resonant sound for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal material for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing aspect to the switches. The similarities in their polycarbonate top housings ensure that users can expect comparable sound profiles and aesthetics from both switches.
In terms of their bottom housings, the Outemu Milk Blue and the Outemu Red switches both utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound for both switches. This common choice of material for the bottom housings ensures that users will experience a consistent depth and resonance in the sound produced by both switches, contributing to an overall satisfying typing experience.
While the top and bottom housings of the Outemu Milk Blue and Outemu Red switches differ in material, the qualities each housing material brings to the switches are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater 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. Despite this difference, both switches offer a harmonious combination of polycarbonate and nylon housings that work together to create a unique typing experience with distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, it is apparent that the Milk Blue requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Red's 46 grams. The Milk Blue does not have a specified bottom out force, while the Red has a bottom out force of 62 grams, indicating that the Red switch is heavier in this aspect. The actuation force of a switch is crucial as it determines the force needed to register a keystroke, while the bottom out force reflects the pressure required to fully press the key. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Outemu Red linear switch, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. Meanwhile, individuals seeking a more robust typing feel may lean towards the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch for a stronger push sensation. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Red linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar amount of tactile feedback and keypress depth when used. The only noticeable difference between the two switches is their tactile feedback - the Milk Blue provides a clicky sound while the Red offers a smoother linear feel. Overall, both switches have the same travel distance, making them ideal choices for those who prefer a standard keypress depth in their mechanical keyboard.
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 Red.
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 satisfying click with each key press, providing a tactile auditory experience that many typists enjoy. On the other hand, the Outemu Red linear switch is known for its smooth and quiet keystrokes, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience. Both switches have distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Milk Blue being more audible and the Red being more subtle.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch offers a tactile feedback and pronounced bump during actuation, giving typists a satisfying sensation with each key press. On the other hand, the Outemu Red linear switch provides a smooth keystroke without any tactile bump, allowing for consistent and effortless typing. Both switches have unique feels that cater to different typing preferences, with the Milk Blue offering a more tactile experience and the Red offering a smoother one.
Overall, when comparing the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch to the Outemu Red linear switch, it is important to consider your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel. If you enjoy a clicky switch with a tactile bump and audible feedback, the Milk Blue may be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a quiet and smooth typing experience without any tactile feedback, the Red may be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and can provide a satisfactory typing experience, allowing newcomers to choose based on their individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, here are some guidelines to consider. If you are someone who values a clicky and tactile typing experience with a light touch and enjoys the audible feedback, then the Outemu Milk Blue switch would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience with a medium bottom out force, then the Outemu Red linear switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. Consider these factors carefully to find the switch that best suits your typing habits and preferences.
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