Outemu Milk Blue vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Outemu Milk Blue and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Milk Blue and the Durock T1 offer distinct typing experiences. The Milk Blue switch is a clicky switch, providing a satisfying sound and tactile feedback with each key press. On the other hand, the Durock T1 is a tactile switch that offers a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on the window. While the Milk Blue is known for its clicky feedback, the T1 is praised for its comfort and tactility. 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
67g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Outemu Milk Blue and Durock T1 both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which enhances clarity and resonance. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. As a result, users can expect similar sound characteristics and aesthetic appeal when using either of these switches with polycarbonate top housings.
On the other hand, the Milk Blue and T1 differ in their choice of bottom housing material, with the Milk Blue featuring a nylon bottom housing while the T1 uses polycarbonate for the bottom. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This leads to a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. In contrast, the T1's polycarbonate bottom housing may offer a slightly different typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
When comparing the overall typing experience, it's important to consider how the qualities of the top and bottom housings contribute to the switch's performance. While the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Therefore, users can expect a nuanced typing experience with the Outemu Milk Blue and Durock T1 switches, as the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in their respective housings creates a unique blend of sound characteristics and tactile feedback.
Weight
The Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Durock T1 tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. The bottom out force of the T1 is heavier at 67 grams, while the Milk Blue's bottom out force is unavailable. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Milk Blue switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, users who prefer a more tactile and pronounced typing feel may opt for the T1 switch with its heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer a different typing experience, with the Milk Blue providing a lighter actuation and the T1 offering a heavier bottom out force for those seeking a more substantial keystroke feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch is the same at 4mm. When comparing the two switches, both require the same amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom, providing a consistent typing experience for users. This means that whether you choose the Milk Blue or the T1, you can expect similar key feel and feedback due to the identical travel distance. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two switches as they both offer a 4mm distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 and the Durock T1 tactile switch offer different experiences. The Milk Blue switch is known for providing a sharp and crisp click sound, which can be quite satisfying for users who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the T1 switch produces a low-pitched sound that is more mellow and bass-heavy, resembling the sound of rain falling on a window. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can cater to different preferences, with the Milk Blue being more sharp and clicky, and the T1 being more soothing and neutral.
When it comes to feel, the Milk Blue switch is known for providing a certain tactile feedback that is not mentioned in the given information. In contrast, the Durock T1 switch is described as having a stepped and accented tactile feel. This means that users can expect a two-stage tactile experience with the T1 switch, offering a moderate bump during the keystroke that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the polished finish of the T1 switch ensures a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Milk Blue switch provides a sharp click sound and an unmentioned tactile feel, the T1 switch offers a low-pitched and soothing sound along with a stepped and accented tactile feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing experience, users can choose between the sharp and crisp feedback of the Milk Blue or the mellow and comfortable typing experience of the T1. Ultimately, both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, you should consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a clicky and responsive feedback with no bottom out force, the Milk Blue switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy tactile bump and a more comfortable typing feel with a low-pitched sound profile, the T1 switch would be a better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize the sound, feel, or bottom out force of the switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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