Outemu Milk Tea vs. Gateron Type A

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Milk Tea and the Gateron Type A present intriguing options for users with differing preferences. The Milk Tea is a tactile switch that offers a satisfying bump when pressed, making it ideal for those who prefer a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A is a linear switch introduced in Sillyworks' "Project Rehash," known for its innovative take on travel distances and factory lubing techniques. With a sound signature leaning towards the deeper end of the spectrum, the Type A is favored by those seeking a medium-weight switch with a more subdued 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

Outemu Milk Tea Tactile

Gateron Type A Linear

$3.10 per 10

$4.70 per 10

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Housing materials

The Outemu Milk Tea and the Gateron Type A both use nylon as the material for their top and bottom housings. This means that both switches will elicit a deep and fuller sound profile when typing on them. The nylon material is softer and absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Despite this similarity in housing material, the Milk Tea is described as having a very bright sound signature, offering resonant clacks when typing, while the Type A is known for a deeper sound profile. This difference in sound signature could be attributed to other factors such as stem design or spring weight within the switches.

In terms of construction, both the Milk Tea and Type A switches have nylon top and bottom housings, which allows for a consistent sound profile throughout the switch. The top housing material will have more of an impact on the sound when the key is released, while the bottom housing will affect the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down. Despite using the same material for both top and bottom housings, the overall sound signature of the Milk Tea is brighter and more resonant compared to the deeper sound profile of the Type A. This difference highlights how even with similar housing materials, other factors can contribute to varying sound profiles.

Overall, the housing materials of the Outemu Milk Tea and the Gateron Type A switches play a significant role in determining the sound signature of each switch. While both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, the Milk Tea is noted for its bright and resonant clacks while typing, while the Type A offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon material absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Despite these differences in sound, the choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference for the type of sound experience one desires while typing.

Weight

In comparing the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it is evident that the Type A has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Milk Tea's 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Type A is heavier at 55 grams, while the Milk Tea's bottom out force is unknown. The actuation force is crucial for initiating keystrokes, with lighter forces being preferred by some for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the bottom out force contributes to the typing experience's overall feel, with heavier forces providing a more substantial keystroke. While the Milk Tea offers a lighter actuation force, the Type A provides a heavier bottom out force, catering to different preferences for typing and gaming experiences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches comes down to personal preference based on the desired typing feel and experience.

Travel distance

Both the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect a similar experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressing down on a key. This travel distance is important as it can impact the overall typing experience and feel of the switch. It's worth noting that while the travel distance is the same for both switches, other factors such as actuation force and tactile feedback may still differentiate the two switches in terms of overall typing feel and performance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Milk Tea switch is known for its unique sound profile that may vary depending on the board and keycaps used. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch offers a neutral sound profile that falls on the deeper side of the sound spectrum. This makes it suitable for a wide range of purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user looking for a moderate sound profile.

In terms of feel, specific information about the tactile feedback of the Milk Tea switch and the typing experience of the Gateron Type A linear switch is not provided. As a newcomer, it is essential to try out both switches to determine which one offers the tactile feedback and typing experience that best suits your preferences.

Overall, both the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and potentially feel, making them suitable options for different preferences. If you are looking for a tactile switch with a distinctive sound profile, the Milk Tea may be the way to go. If you prefer a linear switch with a neutral sound profile, consider trying out the Gateron Type A. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on personal preference and typing style.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, you should choose the Milk Tea if you prioritize a unique switch with an undefined bottom out force and are interested in a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, opt for the Gateron Type A if you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams and are looking for a linear switch that delivers a subdued sound profile. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force to ensure you select the switch that best suits your needs.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Milk Tea Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Type A Linear

$4.70 per 10

Learn more