Outemu Milk Tea vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Outemu Milk Tea and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Milk Tea, a tactile switch, to the Gateron Smoothie, a linear switch, some general pointers emerge. The Milk Tea is best known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump when the key is actuated, while the Gateron Smoothie stands out for its smoothness and thocky sound signature. The Milk Tea is categorized as a tactile switch, offering a more noticeable tactile response, whereas the Smoothie falls into the linear category, providing a consistent and smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback. Both switches have their unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences in 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
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Ly
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Milk Tea features a Ly top housing that is known for its bright sound signature, producing resonant clacks when typing. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie's POM top housing offers a deeper and relatively more muted sound profile. Both housing materials create unique sound characteristics, but the Milk Tea's Ly housing is brighter while the Smoothie's POM housing is deeper. However, despite the differences in sound profile, both materials are praised for their pleasing and distinct auditory experiences.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Outemu Milk Tea incorporates a nylon bottom housing that results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The nylon material of the Milk Tea is known for its ability to absorb more sound due to its softer nature, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie utilizes a POM bottom housing, which also contributes to a pleasing and unique sound experience. The POM material of the Smoothie is described as creating a sound profile on the deeper side, similarly to the nylon bottom housing of the Milk Tea.
In terms of overall construction, the top and bottom housing materials of the Outemu Milk Tea and the Gateron Smoothie play different roles in influencing the sound profile of the switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when the key is released. Despite the variations in housing materials between the two switches, both the Milk Tea and the Smoothie offer distinct and enjoyable typing experiences, with different sound profiles that cater to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, the main difference lies in their actuation force. The Milk Tea requires a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams, compared to the Smoothie's 40 grams. This means that the Smoothie is lighter to press, offering a more effortless typing experience. Additionally, both switches have an unknown bottom out force, making it difficult to determine which one requires more force to fully press down. For users who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gateron Smoothie would be the better option, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Outemu Milk Tea. Overall, the actuation force plays a significant role in determining the typing feel and experience of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, we can see that the Milk Tea has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Smoothie has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Smoothie has the shorter travel distance, making it more suitable for those who prefer a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Milk Tea has a slightly longer travel distance, providing a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Milk Tea being on the longer side and the Smoothie being on the shorter side. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch is known for its unique sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is renowned for its thocky sound signature, low-pitched tones, and subdued sound when pressed. The Milk Tea switch's sound characteristics are unknown, but if you're looking for a switch with a satisfying and deep sound, the Gateron Smoothie would be a great choice. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard build and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch offers a tactile typing experience that is smooth and satisfying. Unfortunately, specific descriptors for its feel are unavailable. On the contrary, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is praised for its buttery, creamy, and silky keystrokes. With a smooth and fluid typing experience, the Gateron Smoothie provides a seamless and effortless sensation when typing. While the feel of the Milk Tea switch is not clearly defined, if you prefer a switch with a luxurious and smooth typing experience, the Gateron Smoothie would be a top contender.
In conclusion, the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch and Gateron Smoothie linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Milk Tea switch provides an unknown sound and feel experience, while the Smoothie switch is known for its thocky sound and buttery, creamy, and silky feel. Both switches have their unique advantages, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style when choosing between the two. If you enjoy a tactile typing experience without clear sound and feel descriptors, the Milk Tea switch may suit your needs. However, if you prefer a thocky sound and smooth typing sensation, the Gateron Smoothie switch would be a solid choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you prioritize a subtle sound with a lightweight touch, the Outemu Milk Tea may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a thocky sound with a smooth and buttery typing experience, the Gateron Smoothie could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for you when typing. Whether you lean towards the tactile feedback of the Milk Tea or the smooth linear feel of the Smoothie, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience.
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