Outemu Milk Blue vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Outemu Milk Blue and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Milk Blue and KTT Phalaenopsis offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Milk Blue is a clicky switch with a unique sound profile, while the Phalaenopsis is a tactile switch that provides a satisfying typing experience with its light actuation force of 37g and discernible tactile bump of 50g. The Milk Blue may appeal to those who enjoy the audible click sound, while the Phalaenopsis is ideal for those looking for a more tactile typing experience with minimal finger fatigue. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Milk Blue and the KTT Phalaenopsis, it is evident that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, while the Milk Blue also incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, the Phalaenopsis utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing like its top, resulting in a consistent sharp and clear sound profile throughout the keystroke.
Despite sharing a polycarbonate top housing, the Milk Blue and Phalaenopsis differentiate themselves in their choice of bottom housing material. The Milk Blue's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall during typing. Conversely, the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate bottom housing, like its top, maintains a sharper and crisper sound profile. This contrast in bottom housing materials highlights the impact that different housing materials can have on the overall typing experience and sound quality of a switch.
Overall, while both the Outemu Milk Blue and KTT Phalaenopsis utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, their choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound profile and typing experience. The Milk Blue's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a consistent sharp and clear sound throughout keystrokes. Understanding how the combination of different housing materials can affect sound profiles and typing sensations is crucial for keyboard enthusiasts looking to customize their typing experience to suit their preferences.
Weight
The Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch with an actuation force of 37 grams, making the Milk Blue heavier. However, the bottom out force of the Phalaenopsis is 50 grams, meaning that it requires more force to fully press the key compared to the Milk Blue, which does not have a specified bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Phalaenopsis may be more suitable due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Milk Blue despite its heavier actuation force. Overall, the weight of a switch plays a significant role in determining the typing experience, with lighter switches being preferred for longer typing sessions and heavier switches providing a more robust feel.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, users will experience the same amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. This can result in a similar typing experience in terms of tactile feedback and keypress depth. Overall, both switches offer a consistent and satisfying travel distance for users looking for a clicky or tactile typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
The Outemu Milk Blue comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 loud and crisp click sound that is typically associated with clicky switches. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch is described as having a bassy and thocky sound profile, providing a deeper and richer sound during key presses. Both switches offer distinct auditory feedback, but the Milk Blue is more traditional in its clicky sound, while the Phalaenopsis provides a unique and satisfying bassy thock.
In terms of feel, the Milk Blue switch is known for its tactile bump and audible click, providing a satisfying and tactile typing experience. The KTT Phalaenopsis switch, on the other hand, is described as having a stepped feel, which means it offers a more subtle tactile feedback with a two-stage sensation during the keystroke. This difference in feel may appeal to those who prefer a gentler tactile feedback compared to the more pronounced bump of the Milk Blue.
In conclusion, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Milk Blue provides a traditional clicky sound and tactile bump, the Phalaenopsis switch offers a bassy and thocky sound profile with a stepped tactile feel. The choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and typing experience, but rest assured, both switches will provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience with their distinct characteristics.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you are looking for a switch with a light actuation force and a satisfying tactile bump, the Phalaenopsis switch with its 50g bottom out force may be the better option for you. The beautiful translucent design adds a touch of elegance to your keyboard, while minimizing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a different sound profile, the Milk Blue clicky switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for actuation force, sound, and overall typing experience.
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