Outemu Milk Blue vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Outemu Milk Blue and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Milk Blue and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear are two popular options with distinct characteristics. The Milk Blue is a clicky switch, known for its tactile feedback and audible click sound upon actuation. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear offers a unique experience with its whisper-quiet topping-out sound and clacky bottom-out sound. While the Milk Blue provides a satisfying tactile response for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience, the Semi-Silent Linear offers a smooth and quiet typing experience for those who prefer a more subdued and neutral feel. 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
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Milk Blue and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches used with RGB lighting. Despite having the same material for the top housing, the overall sound and feel of the switches may differ based on other factors such as the bottom housing material.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Outemu Milk Blue utilizes a nylon housing, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear also employs a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a more muted and rounded sound when typing on switches with nylon housing. Despite having the same material for the bottom housing, subtle differences in construction or design could still lead to variations in sound and typing feel between the two switches.
When the top and bottom housing materials differ within a switch, the qualities of each material will impact the overall sound and feel of the switch differently. The bottom housing material has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the key, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing the key. While both the Outemu Milk Blue and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches have unique combinations of housing materials, understanding how each material contributes to the overall typing experience can help users make an informed decision based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
The Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Jwick switch has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Milk Blue switch has an unknown bottom out force. This means that the Milk Blue switch may be better for those who prefer a lighter typing experience and less finger fatigue during long typing sessions or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Jwick switch would be more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these two switches offer different typing experiences, allowing users to choose based on their personal preference for typing feel and fatigue.
Travel distance
The Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Milk Blue has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Semi-Silent Linear. A 0.3 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the typing experience and feel of the switch. Those who prefer a more traditional travel distance may lean towards the Milk Blue, while those who prefer a slightly shorter travel distance may opt for the Semi-Silent Linear. Ultimately, both switches provide a balance between travel distance and responsiveness, offering a satisfying typing experience for different preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 best known for its loud and satisfying click sound. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch is described as having a subdued sound, offering a more subtle and quiet typing experience. The Milk Blue switch provides a more pronounced and audible feedback during typing, while the Semi-Silent Linear switch aims to be more discreet and suitable for quieter environments.
In terms of feel, the Milk Blue switch is known for None, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is described as having a mild and gentle typing experience. The Milk Blue switch may offer a more tactile and clicky feel during typing, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch provides a smooth and buttery feel, with a snappy and polished finish for a comfortable typing experience without the loud click sound.
Overall, when considering both switches, it is important to note that the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is known for its loud and clicky feedback, suitable for those who prefer a more pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch offers a quieter and more subtle typing experience, with a smooth and gentle feel that is aimed at creating a more discreet typing environment. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a more audible typing experience or a quieter and smoother typing feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, you should consider your preferences in terms of sound and feel. If you enjoy a loud clicky sound and a tactile typing experience, the Milk Blue switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued and quiet typing experience with a smooth feel, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is worth considering. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for. Choose the switch that aligns with your preferences and typing style for the best overall experience.
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