Outemu Milk Blue vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Outemu Milk Blue and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the Outemu Milk Blue and the Gateron Silent Ink Black mechanical keyboard switches, one can immediately see the stark contrast in their primary features. The Milk Blue is a clicky switch with a tactile bump that provides a satisfying audible click with each keypress, perfect for those who enjoy the sound and feel of typing. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black is a linear switch designed for a quieter typing experience, making it ideal for shared workspaces or environments where noise is a concern. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on personal preference and work environment; 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
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Milk Blue and the Gateron Silent Ink Black, it is clear that both switches offer unique qualities. The Milk Blue features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiff nature. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a pointed and high-pitched yet not overly sharp sound profile. Both materials aim to enhance the overall typing experience by creating distinct auditory feedback.
On the other hand, the housing materials of the bottom housing reveal a different set of characteristics for each switch. The Milk Blue's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Conversely, the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend bottom housing also contributes to a high-pitched and clacky sound profile. Despite their differences, both bottom housings aim to enhance the overall typing experience by creating a unique sound profile.
Overall, although the top and bottom housing materials used in the Outemu Milk Blue and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches may differ, they both ultimately contribute to creating a satisfying typing experience. Whether it's the sharp and resonant sound profile of the polycarbonate top housing in the Milk Blue or the high-pitched and clacky sound profile of the proprietary INK blend top housing in the Silent Ink Black, both switches offer unique auditory feedback. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Milk Blue and the proprietary INK blend bottom housing of the Silent Ink Black aim to create a deeper and fuller sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience for users.
Weight
The Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, which has an actuation force of 60 grams. This means that the Milk Blue switch may feel more responsive and easier to press down on. However, the Silent Ink Black switch has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams (compared to the Milk Blue switch's unknown bottom out force), providing a more substantial typing experience and reducing the likelihood of accidental keystrokes. Overall, if you prefer a lighter actuation force for quicker typing speed, the Milk Blue switch may be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force for a more deliberate typing experience, the Silent Ink Black switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of key travel. The travel distance of 4mm allows for a responsive and tactile typing feel, providing a satisfying keystroke with each press. Whether you choose the Milk Blue clicky switch or the Silent Ink Black linear switch, you can expect a similar typing experience in terms of key travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is known for its loud and clicky sound, which provides tactile feedback with each key press. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch is designed to be a quieter option, with a muted sound profile that is ideal for environments where noise must be kept to a minimum. The muted sound of the Silent Ink Black switch offers a softer and gentler typing experience compared to the loud and clicky nature of the Milk Blue switch.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Milk Blue switch is recognized for its tactile feedback and satisfying click with every keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch offers a plush and cushioned bottom-out feel, providing a comfortable typing experience with minimal resistance. The silky smoothness and polished finish of the Silent Ink Black switch enhance the overall typing feel, making it ideal for extended typing sessions where comfort is a priority.
In conclusion, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch offer distinct experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Milk Blue switch provides a loud and tactile typing experience with a satisfying click, while the Silent Ink Black switch offers a quieter and smoother typing experience. Whether you prefer the loud and clicky feedback of the Milk Blue switch or the quiet and cushioned feel of the Silent Ink Black switch, both switches excel in their respective qualities, providing users with a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, you should consider the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard and your personal preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy the audible click sound and tactile feedback of a clicky switch, the Milk Blue would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you need a quieter typing experience and prefer a smooth, cushioned feel while typing, the Silent Ink Black would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you prioritize sound and feedback or a silent, smooth typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns with your preferences and needs for the best typing experience.
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