Outemu Milk Blue vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the Outemu Milk Blue and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch for your typing needs, the Outemu Milk Blue and Wuque Studio WS POM+ offer two distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Milk Blue, known for its clicky feedback, is ideal for typists who enjoy auditory confirmation with each keystroke, making it a popular choice for those who appreciate the traditional "click" sound in their typing experience. On the other hand, the WS POM+, an all-POM switch, provides a smooth, linear typing experience characterized by its deep, satisfying "thock" sound, perfect for users who prefer a quieter, more fluid input without the distraction of clicks. While the Milk Blue excels in delivering a tactile and audible response that many find satisfying, the WS POM+ offers a seamless keystroke that is often favored for both gaming and long typing sessions due to its comfort and consistency. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Milk Blue and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ differ significantly in their choice of housing materials, particularly in their top housings. The Milk Blue utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which contributes to a sharper, crisper sound profile. This stiffer plastic is renowned for enhancing resonance, making it especially suitable for users who desire bright, clear audio feedback from their switches. The translucent property of polycarbonate also makes it a popular choice for RGB lighting setups, as it allows light to pass through effectively. In contrast, the WS POM+ employs a POM top housing, which results in a deeper and more muted sound. POM, known for its unique properties, offers a sound profile that is less piercing and more balanced, appealing to those who may prefer a subtler auditory experience.
When comparing the bottom housings of the two switches, however, both the Milk Blue and WS POM+ utilize nylon and POM respectively, leading to a noticeable similarity in sound characteristics. The Milk Blue's nylon bottom housing is designed to create a fuller, deeper sound by absorbing more sound vibrations, producing a rounder auditory profile. Meanwhile, the WS POM+'s POM bottom housing similarly fosters a pleasing deep sound that is also relatively muted. The inherent properties of nylon and POM both facilitate a warm and cohesive sound experience when pressing down on the switches, allowing for satisfying acoustics during typing.
In essence, while the Milk Blue and WS POM+ showcase different auditory profiles through their top housing materials, their bottom housings exhibit comparable qualities, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound experience. When typing, users will perceive the distinct characteristics of the bottom housing more prominently than those of the top, as the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel. Thus, though the overall auditory experience may vary based on the upper housing material, the resulting sound from both models can still yield satisfying and enjoyable feedback, particularly due to the compatibility of the bottom housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Milk Blue has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the WS POM+ features a lighter actuation force at 45 grams. This means that the Milk Blue requires more effort to actuate, making it more suitable for users who prefer a sturdier typing experience, while the WS POM+ caters to those who favor lighter key presses, potentially enabling longer typing sessions without fatigue. In terms of bottom out force, the Milk Blue does not have this specification available, while the WS POM+ has a bottom out force of 55 grams, classified as medium-light. As a result, the WS POM+ is the lighter switch overall, making it more appealing for users seeking comfort during prolonged use, whereas the Milk Blue may better satisfy those who enjoy a heavier key feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference in travel distance reflects their intended use cases; the Milk Blue's 4 mm travel offers a more traditional and hearty depth, which some users may find more satisfying for tactile feedback. In contrast, the WS POM+ switch's 3.6 mm travel distance aligns with the modern trend of seeking quicker response times, making it an appealing choice for gamers who prefer a more responsive experience. Ultimately, if you prioritize depth and a tactile sensation, the Milk Blue may be the better choice, whereas if you favor responsiveness and a quicker actuation, the WS POM+ would be preferable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Milk Blue comes in at $3.10, whereas the Wuque Studio WS POM+ comes in at $3.90.
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 offers a distinct auditory experience that typifies the clicky switch category. Its pronounced click provides auditory feedback that many typists and gamers find satisfying and engaging. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch is noted for its deep, satisfying "thock" sound, which provides a luxurious sound signature without the sharpness of clicks. This characteristic makes the WS POM+ particularly appealing to those who prefer a more subdued yet still enjoyable acoustic profile while typing. Ultimately, while both switches provide engaging sound profiles, the Milk Blue offers a more traditional click, while the WS POM+ leans towards a more muted, resonant sound.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Milk Blue switch is designed to deliver the tactile feedback that typists love. The distinct bump in the actuation point creates a sensation that can enhance the typing experience, providing both satisfaction and responsiveness during use. On the other hand, the WS POM+ linear switch boasts a buttery-smooth keystroke, offering a seamless typing experience devoid of tactile feedback. This means that users can experience a fluid and consistent keypress without the disruption of a tactile bump. Thus, while both switches cater to different preferences—one for those who appreciate tactile feedback and the other for those who favor smoothness—typists can select according to their desired typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Outemu Milk Blue and Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switches embody distinct typing experiences suited to different user preferences. The Milk Blue excels in providing a clicky sound and tactile feedback, appealing to those who enjoy a more traditional mechanical keyboard feel. Conversely, the WS POM+ offers a luxurious sound with a smooth keystroke, making it ideal for users seeking a more subdued and fluid typing sensation. Ultimately, your choice will reflect your own priorities, whether for the satisfying click of the Milk Blue or the seamless glide of the WS POM+.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and the typing experience you're looking to achieve. If you enjoy an audible and tactile feedback during your keystrokes that provide an engaging and satisfying sound while typing, then the Milk Blue switch would be your go-to option. It's ideal for those who find joy in the clicky nature of switches and prefer a more interactive sound profile, which can also be beneficial in providing a clearer indication of keypresses, especially in a gaming or coding context. Conversely, if you prioritize a smooth and quiet typing experience, the WS POM+ linear switch, with its medium-light bottom-out force and plush "thock" sound signature, will better suit your needs. This switch is perfect for those who value a seamless keypress without the distraction of clicking noises, making it a great choice for long typing sessions, gaming marathons, or a quiet office environment. Ultimately, your preference for sound and feel should guide you in choosing the switch that complements your unique typing style.
Mentioned in this article
