Outemu Milk Tea vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Outemu Milk Tea and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the decision often comes down to personal preference in terms of feel and sound. The Outemu Milk Tea is a tactile switch, offering a satisfying bump when pressed, making it ideal for those who prefer a more pronounced feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S is a linear switch, providing a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback, appealing to users who prefer a quieter and more linear typing experience. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences; 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
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Milk Tea and the Gateron Type S switches both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon housings. While both switches share this characteristic, the Milk Tea's top housing is described as providing a brighter sound signature with resonant clacks, while the Type S's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile.
However, where the two switches differ is in the specific qualities of their top housing materials. The Outemu Milk Tea's Ly top housing is highlighted for its bright sound signature, creating a unique typing experience with resonant clacks. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S's nylon top housing is known for its deeper and fuller sound profile, offering a different auditory experience when typing. Despite these differences, both switches share the underlying benefit of nylon as a housing material, which enhances the overall sound and feel of the switches.
When comparing the top and bottom housings of the Outemu Milk Tea and the Gateron Type S, it is important to understand how each housing material contributes to the overall typing experience. While both switches utilize nylon for their housings, the impact of each material is split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This distribution of qualities results in a unique typing experience for each switch, with the bottom housing affecting the tactile feedback and the top housing influencing the sound signature.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch to the Gateron Type S linear switch, it is evident that the Milk Tea is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Type S's 55 grams. The bottom out force of the Type S is also heavier at 65 grams, while the bottom out force of the Milk Tea is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Milk Tea, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the heavier Type S. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to a variety of preferences. Overall, individuals can expect similar results in terms of performance and feel when using either switch due to their relatively close actuation forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that you will get similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressing down on a key. Both switches offer a consistent and satisfying typing experience with their equal travel distances. It is worth noting that having the same travel distance can contribute to a similar typing feel, making them both reliable choices for keyboard enthusiasts.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Milk Tea comes in at $3.10, whereas the Gateron Type S comes in at $4.70.
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 switch doesn't have any specific characteristics mentioned, so it's safe to say that it may offer a standard typing noise profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S switch is known for its neutral and subdued sound qualities. The Type S provides a balanced and slightly deeper sound when compared to most switches, offering a more subtle and dampened typing experience.
Moving on to the feel, the subjective qualities of the Milk Tea switch are not specified, so it's difficult to provide a direct comparison. However, the Gateron Type S switch is designed with a 65g bottom-out force, appealing to users who prefer a heavier keystroke. This weightier feel during typing can contribute to a more satisfying tactile feedback and overall typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Milk Tea and Gateron Type S switches may have their own unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, it's ultimately important to consider personal preferences when choosing a mechanical keyboard switch. Both switches offer qualities that cater to different preferences, whether it be a more neutral sound profile or a heavier keystroke feel. Ultimately, trying out each switch firsthand or gathering more detailed information from trusted sources can help determine the best fit for an individual's typing preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a switch with no defined bottom out force, the Milk Tea may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, the Gateron Type S might be more suitable. Additionally, if you value a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, the Type S would be a good option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound signature.
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