Outemu Milk Tea vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Outemu Milk Tea and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch to the KTT Strawberry linear switch, we can see distinct differences in their characteristics. The Milk Tea switch is best known for its unique None feature and falls into the category of tactile switches, providing users with a satisfying tactile feedback. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch is renowned for its delectable Strawberries appearance and falls into the category of linear switches, offering a smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. While the Milk Tea switch may appeal to those who enjoy tactile feedback, the Strawberry switch is preferred by those seeking a low-pitched, frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished 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
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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 housing materials of the Outemu Milk Tea and the KTT Strawberry switches offer different sound profiles and typing experiences due to their unique characteristics. The Milk Tea features a combination of a Ly top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The Ly top housing provides a bright and resonant sound signature, while the nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile with more clarity and resonance than the Milk Tea.
Despite their differences in housing materials, the Outemu Milk Tea and the KTT Strawberry switches both aim to enhance the typing experience with their unique sound profiles. The Milk Tea's Ly top housing and nylon bottom housing work together to provide a balanced combination of brightness and depth in the sound produced while typing. In comparison, the Strawberry's polycarbonate top and bottom housings create a consistent sharp and clear sound profile that emphasizes clarity and resonance in each key press.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Milk Tea and the KTT Strawberry switches comes down to personal preference in sound and typing feel. While the Milk Tea offers a mix of bright and deep sound profiles with its Ly top and nylon bottom housings, the Strawberry provides a consistently sharp and crisp sound with its polycarbonate materials. Whether you prefer a more resonant and fuller typing experience or a sharper and clearer sound profile, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the KTT Strawberry linear switch with an actuation force of 43 grams, making the Milk Tea slightly lighter to press. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is heavier with 62 grams needed to bottom out, while the bottom out force of the Milk Tea is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Milk Tea may be more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more substantial and heavier typing feel may lean towards the KTT Strawberry. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, so choosing between them ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distances, it can be seen that both switches provide a similar tactile experience despite having different switch types. The Milk Tea offers a tactile feedback experience while the Strawberry offers a smooth linear feel, giving users options based on their preferred typing experience. Overall, both switches provide a comfortable typing experience with a consistent travel distance, ensuring users can efficiently type without any major differences in distance traveled between the two switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Milk Tea comes in at $3.10, whereas the KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91.
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 Milk Tea switch does not have a specific reputation. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch is known for producing a low-pitched sound, which typically provides a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Milk Tea switch does not have any specific characteristics associated with it. Conversely, the KTT Strawberry switch is praised for its frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished feel. These descriptors indicate that the Strawberry switch offers an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience, with minimal resistance or friction when pressing the keys. The switch provides a fluid travel, resulting in a sleek and refined typing experience.
Considering the subjective qualities mentioned, the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch offer contrasting experiences. While the Milk Tea switch lacks specific information on sound and feel, the KTT Strawberry switch is known for its low-pitched sound and smooth, frictionless feel. If you prefer a switch with a smoother and quieter typing experience, the KTT Strawberry switch may be the better choice. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you value a switch with a light bottom out force and are looking for a unique typing experience, the Milk Tea might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and prioritize a smooth and frictionless typing feel, the KTT Strawberry switch could be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer their own set of advantages, so it's important to evaluate what aspects are most important to you in a keyboard switch before making your decision.