Outemu Milk Tea vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Outemu Milk Tea and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Milk Tea and SP-Star RedBlue offer distinct typing experiences. The milk tea is a tactile switch that is best known for its unique feel. On the other hand, the RedBlue is a linear switch that stands out for its medium-light typing experience and low-pitched sound profile. While the Milk Tea may appeal to those looking for tactility, the RedBlue is ideal for users who prefer a low-pitched typing 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The primary difference between the Outemu Milk Tea and the SP-Star RedBlue in terms of housing materials lies in the top housing. The Milk Tea utilizes a Ly top housing, which produces a bright sound signature and resonant clacks during typing. On the other hand, the RedBlue features a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials offer distinct auditory experiences, the Milk Tea's Ly top housing may provide a more vibrant and resonant typing experience compared to the RedBlue's polycarbonate top housing.
In contrast, when it comes to the bottom housing, both switches take a different approach. The Milk Tea incorporates a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic nature. On the other hand, the RedBlue opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, resulting in a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile with enhanced clarity and resonance. Despite these differences, both bottom housings contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch, with nylon offering a more muffled and rounder sound compared to the more crisp and clear sound produced by polycarbonate.
Although the materials used in the top and bottom housings vary between the Outemu Milk Tea and the SP-Star RedBlue, their respective characteristics ultimately impact the typing experience in unique ways. While the Milk Tea may excel in providing a vibrant and resonant typing sound with its Ly top housing and nylon bottom housing, the RedBlue distinguishes itself with a sharper and crisper sound profile from its polycarbonate top and bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, as each housing material offers a distinct typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, it is evident that they have different force requirements. The Milk Tea has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the RedBlue's actuation force is unknown. However, the RedBlue has a heavier bottom out force of 57 grams compared to the Milk Tea's unknown bottom out force. This means that the RedBlue switch may provide a more substantial typing experience due to the higher force required to bottom out, while the Milk Tea may be more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming due to its lighter actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for force requirements during typing.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch is 4mm, which is the same as the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch. Both switches provide a consistent travel distance of 4mm when pressed down, resulting in a similar typing experience for users. The Milk Tea and RedBlue switches offer a moderate travel distance that is ideal for typing and gaming, striking a balance between responsiveness and comfort. Overall, both switches are equal in terms of travel distance, giving users a familiar and consistent feel regardless of which switch they choose.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
The Outemu Milk Tea 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 Tea tactile switch is not particularly known for any distinct sound profile. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch has a low-pitched sound profile that provides a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. This characteristic, combined with a neutral actuation force requirement, makes the RedBlue switches suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. The deep and rich "thocky" sound produced by the RedBlue switches can provide a satisfying auditory experience, especially when paired with the right keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Milk Tea tactile switch does not have any specific descriptors for feel. In contrast, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is described as providing a mild and polished typing experience. The mild characteristics of the RedBlue switches offer a gentle typing feel that is approachable to most users, striking a comfortable middle ground in terms of feedback. The polished finish of the RedBlue switches contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience, with reduced friction and seamless key travel, thanks to potential factory lubing or higher-quality materials used in production.
Overall, while the Outemu Milk Tea and SP-Star RedBlue switches may offer different sound and feel experiences, both can provide satisfying results for users looking for tactile or linear switches, respectively. The Milk Tea switch may offer a more neutral and versatile sound profile, while the RedBlue switch stands out with its low-pitched and thocky sound. In terms of feel, the Milk Tea lacks specific descriptors, while the RedBlue switch is praised for its mild and polished typing experience. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience for different preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a switch with a light bottom out force and a unique typing experience, the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile and smooth key travel, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you as you type.
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