Outemu Milk Blue vs. Durock Piano
An in-depth look at the Outemu Milk Blue and the Durock Piano 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 Durock Piano, a linear switch. The Milk Blue is best known for its satisfying clicky sound and tactile feedback, making it a favorite among typists and gamers alike. On the other hand, the Durock Piano stands out for its smooth, frictionless keystrokes and deep, creamy sound signature, thanks to its proprietary material blend. While the Milk Blue offers a distinctive typing experience with its audible feedback, the Piano provides a silky smooth typing experience that is both bassy and frictionless. 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
63.5g
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
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Mystery material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Outemu Milk Blue and the Durock Piano both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The Milk Blue's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp, high-pitched sound profile, while the Piano's POM blend top housing offers a satisfying and deep sound. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly impact the typing experience for users, with the Milk Blue providing a crisper sound and the Piano offering a more rounded tone. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate in the Milk Blue allows for RGB lighting effects, which can add to the aesthetic appeal of the switch.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Milk Blue features a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Piano's proprietary POM blend bottom housing also offers a deep and satisfying sound profile, although the exact details of this blend remain unknown. While both bottom housings aim to enhance the sound experience of the switch, the different materials may result in subtle variations in sound and feel. Users may find that the Nylon housing of the Milk Blue creates a duller sound, while the POM blend of the Piano offers a unique depth to the typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Milk Blue and the Durock Piano will come down to user preference in sound profile and feel. While both switches offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall typing experience, the differences between the polycarbonate and POM blend top housings, as well as the nylon and POM blend bottom housings, will result in distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. However, if one is looking for a similar outcome in terms of deep and satisfying sound, either switch could provide a similar result depending on individual typing dynamics.
Weight
The Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Durock Piano linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. On the other hand, the Durock Piano has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Milk Blue has an unknown bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Milk Blue switch, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Durock Piano switch may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing feel due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Durock Piano linear switch have a travel distance of 4mm, which means they provide a similar typing experience in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that whether you choose the Milk Blue or the Piano, you can expect a consistent travel distance when typing. In terms of comparison, since both switches have the same travel distance, there is no difference in the distance between the two. Therefore, users can expect a familiar typing experience with either switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
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 doesn't have a specific descriptor provided, which indicates that its sound may not have any standout characteristics. On the other hand, the Durock Piano linear switch is known for its bassy sound profile, offering a deep and rich sound during key presses. This can provide a satisfying auditory experience for users who enjoy a lower frequency range in their switches.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Milk Blue switch also lacks a specific descriptor for its typing experience. In contrast, the Durock Piano linear switch is described as frictionless and silky, providing an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience. This means that users can expect fluid travel and minimal resistance when using the Piano switches, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel.
Overall, if you prioritize a typing experience with deep, creamy sound signature and a gliding push feel, the Durock Piano linear switches would be a fantastic choice. However, if sound and feel aren't crucial factors for you, and you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switches can still provide a satisfactory typing experience. Remember that individual preferences play a significant role in determining the best switch for you, so it's essential to try out different options to find the right fit for your needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you enjoy a clicky and tactile typing experience without a bottom out force, the Milk Blue switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and effortless typing feel with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Durock Piano switch is a great option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to the sound and feel you prefer while typing. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences for a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
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