Outemu Milk Blue vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Outemu Milk Blue and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Milk Blue and the Outemu Phoenix. The milk blue switch is best known for its smooth feature, while the Phoenix stands out with its under-skirt click mechanism, offering a unique and crystalline sound profile. The Milk Blue switch falls under the category of linear, whereas the Phoenix is categorized as 'crunchy' and 'polished'. Each switch brings its own set of benefits and characteristics to the table, making it a tough choice for keyboard enthusiasts. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the Outemu Milk Blue and the Outemu Phoenix switches lies in their bottom housings. The Milk Blue features a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound. In contrast, the Phoenix utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which, like its top housing counterpart, results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in bottom housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience and the sound produced by each switch.
On the other hand, both the Milk Blue and Phoenix switches share a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a clear, resonant sound profile that is ideal for RGB lighting setups. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more distinct sound when pressing down on the keys, as well as when releasing them. This similarity in top housing material means that both switches will likely have a similar sound characteristic in terms of sharpness and clarity. However, the difference in bottom housing material will still play a significant role in determining the depth and fullness of the sound produced by each switch.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Milk Blue and the Outemu Phoenix ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. The Nylon bottom housing of the Milk Blue offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phoenix provides a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches share a polycarbonate top housing, ensuring a clear and resonant sound that is ideal for RGB lighting effects. Whether you prioritize a rounder, duller sound or a sharper, more defined sound, each switch offers a unique typing experience based on the combination of their top and bottom housing materials.
Weight
The Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Outemu Phoenix has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, while the bottom out force of the Milk Blue is unknown. This means that the Milk Blue switch requires less force to trigger a keystroke, which can be preferred by those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer distinct advantages depending on individual preferences, with the Outemu Milk Blue being lighter and the Outemu Phoenix being heavier in terms of force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is 4 mm, which is slightly longer than the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch. It is worth noting that both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances for mechanical switches. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Phoenix switch for faster response times, while others may find the slightly longer travel distance of the Milk Blue switch to provide a more satisfying key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Milk Blue comes in at $3.10, whereas the Outemu Phoenix comes in at $4.15.
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 clicky sound profile, while the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch features a unique under-skirt click mechanism that provides a crystalline and sparkling type feel and sound. The Milk Blue switch sound is not described in the information provided, but the Phoenix switch is often described as "crunchy", resembling stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. The feel of the Milk Blue switch is also not described, whereas the Phoenix switch is noted for its polished feel, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Outemu Milk Blue and Phoenix clicky switches offer different sound and feel profiles to suit individual preferences. The Milk Blue is known for its clicky sound, while the Phoenix stands out with its unique under-skirt click mechanism and polished feel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience on the appropriate keyboard and keycap combination. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prefer a traditional clicky sound or a more unique and polished feel in your mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force or are looking for a switch with a unique feel, the Milk Blue may be the better option for you. However, if you enjoy a medium bottom out force and are attracted to a crunchy sound profile and a polished feel, the Phoenix switch could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, both switches have their own distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to evaluate what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your decision.
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