Outemu Milk Blue vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Outemu Milk Blue and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Milk Blue and the Gateron Type L offer unique experiences for users. The Milk Blue is a clicky switch with a tactile bump that provides a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L is a linear switch that offers a smooth keystroke with a light actuation force of 45g. While the Milk Blue is known for its clicky sound, the Type L is recognized for its subdued and feathery feel. Both switches have their own advantages - the Milk Blue for those who enjoy the audible feedback and the Type L for those who prefer a lighter and quieter typing experience. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Milk Blue and the Gateron Type L both feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for users looking to enhance their typing experience with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound and results in a duller and rounder sound. While both housings contribute to the overall sound of the switch, the polycarbonate top housing of the Milk Blue brings a more vibrant and clear sound, while the nylon top housing of the Type L offers a deeper and more mellow sound.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Outemu Milk Blue and the Gateron Type L feature nylon housings. Nylon is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a more satisfying typing experience for users. Despite both switches using nylon for their bottom housing, the impact of the bottom housing material can vary between switches. The bottom housing of the switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed, influencing the overall typing experience.
Overall, while both the Outemu Milk Blue and the Gateron Type L feature different housing materials for their top and bottom housings, the qualities each material brings to the switch contribute to a unique typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing of the Milk Blue offers a clear and vibrant sound, perfect for users looking to enhance their typing experience with RGB lighting, while the nylon top housing of the Type L provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of both switches creates a more satisfying typing experience, absorbing sound and producing a duller and rounder sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is evident that there is a significant difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Milk Blue has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, while the Type L has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams. Additionally, the Milk Blue has an unknown bottom out force, while the Type L has a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is considered light. This means that the Milk Blue requires more force to register a keystroke compared to the Type L. When it comes to weight preferences, some may find the lighter actuation force of the Type L more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the heavier actuation force of the Milk Blue for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This means that in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results with both switches. It is worth noting that the travel distance is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as it can impact the overall typing experience and tactile feedback. Whether you prefer the clicky feel of the Milk Blue or the smooth linear action of the Type L, both switches offer a consistent and comfortable travel distance for typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Milk Blue comes in at $3.10, whereas the Gateron Type L comes in at $4.70.
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 switch is well-known for its crisp and clicky sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch offers a more subdued sound, producing a dampened noise when pressed. This difference in sound can significantly impact the typing experience, with the Milk Blue being more audible and tactile while the Type L offers a quieter and more subtle typing experience. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be affected by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Milk Blue switch is praised for its tactile feedback and satisfying click, providing a tactile bump with each keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Type L linear switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and offering a smooth typing experience. This difference in feel can influence typing speed and comfort, with the Milk Blue providing a more tactile and pronounced feedback, while the Type L offers a lighter and smoother keystroke.
Overall, the Outemu Milk Blue switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch offer distinct typing experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Milk Blue switch is best suited for individuals who prefer a more tactile and clicky typing experience, while the Type L switch caters to those who prefer a smoother and quieter keystroke. Both switches have their own unique qualities, and ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference and typing style. If you are looking for a light and quiet typing experience, the Gateron Type L linear switch would be the ideal choice, while those seeking a more tactile and audible feedback may prefer the Outemu Milk Blue switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, you should consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a switch with a clicky feel and no specified bottom out force, the Milk Blue may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a linear switch with a more subdued sound profile, the Gateron Type L would be a suitable choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you are looking for, whether it be a more tactile and clicky feel or a lighter and quieter typing experience.
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