Outemu Milk Blue vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Outemu Milk Blue and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Milk Blue, a clicky switch, and the Kailh Plum, a tactile switch. The Milk Blue switch is best known for its satisfying click sound, providing a tactile response with each press. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum switch is unique in that it offers a hefty feel without a pronounced tactile bump, making it stand out among other tactile switches. While the Milk Blue switch offers a more traditional clicky feel, the Plum switch provides a more subtle tactile experience with a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. Both switches have their own merits and reasons why you may want to choose them based on your typing preferences; 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
70g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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 housing materials of the Outemu Milk Blue and the Kailh Plum switches are quite similar, with both featuring a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for those looking for a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing aspect to the switches. Both switches have taken advantage of these qualities in their design, providing users with a satisfying typing experience.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the two switches differ slightly with the Milk Blue featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Plum also utilizing a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that some users may prefer over the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. Despite this difference, both switches offer a variety of sound profiles depending on the materials used in their housing construction.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Milk Blue and the Kailh Plum may come down to personal preference in sound profile. While both switches feature similar polycarbonate top housings, the differences in their nylon bottom housings may lead to varying typing experiences. Whether you prefer the sharper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper sound of nylon, both switches offer a range of options for users looking to customize their keyboard setup. In the end, experimenting with different housing materials can help users find the perfect typing experience that suits their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch to the Kailh Plum tactile switch, there are noticeable differences in actuation and bottom out forces. The Milk Blue has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Plum, which does not provide a specific actuation force. However, the Plum has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, while the Milk Blue does not list a specific bottom out force. These variations in force can result in a different typing experience for users. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Milk Blue for extended typing sessions, while others may gravitate towards the stronger push feel of the Plum for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Milk Blue has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Plum. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Milk Blue is more traditional, providing a bit more depth when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Plum is slightly shorter, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference for travel distance - whether you prefer a longer, more traditional feel or a shorter, more modern response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Milk Blue comes in at $3.10, whereas the Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25.
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 praised for its loud and clicky sound that many enthusiasts enjoy. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. Both switches have their unique qualities in terms of sound, with the Milk Blue providing a more traditional clicky experience, while the Plum offers a more toned-down, versatile sound.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is known for its tactile feedback and clicky response that is satisfying to many users. In contrast, the Kailh Plum tactile switch is described as feeling hefty but with a unique tactile bump that sets it apart from other tactile switches. The Plum switch offers a more gentle typing experience compared to the Milk Blue, making it approachable to a wider range of users. Additionally, the Plum switch is noted for its stepped feel, providing a two-stage tactile experience compared to the more traditional clicky feel of the Milk Blue.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Milk Blue is best suited for those who enjoy a loud and clicky typing experience, while the Plum provides a more versatile and approachable option with its neutral sound profile and stepped tactile feel. Depending on personal preference and typing style, either switch can offer a satisfying typing experience for newcomers looking to explore the world of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a lighter actuation force and a clicky feel with more pronounced tactility, the Milk Blue may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force with a unique, hefty tactile feel that still maintains a neutral sound profile, the Plum switch could be the right fit. Consider how you like your switches to sound and feel, as well as your typing habits, to determine which switch will enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and would be a great addition to your mechanical keyboard collection, depending on what you value most in a switch.
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