Outemu Crystal vs. Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that come to mind are the Outemu Crystal and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear. Both switches fall under the linear category, offering a smooth typing experience without any tactile feedback. However, there are some notable differences between the two. The Crystal switches have a fairly elastic type feel and a medium-light weight, creating a unique linear typing experience. Additionally, they boast a neutral sound profile that won't disturb those around you. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear switches stand out for their smooth and high-pitched typing experience. These switches feature a transparent polycarbonate top housing and UHMWPE bottom housing, allowing for maximum customization of RGB lighting. The lightly lubed POM stem ensures minimal friction and a satisfyingly smooth keystroke. While these general pointers can help guide your decision, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Double-staged stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear, namely polycarbonate and UHWMPE, showcase different characteristics and offer distinct experiences. Both switches utilize polycarbonate top housings for their benefits in sound profile and aesthetic appeal. Polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, creating a more clear and resonant audio experience. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects. Therefore, users who prioritize a distinct sound and vibrant visual effects may gravitate towards either switch for their polycarbonate top housing.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of these switches differ, with the Crystal featuring polycarbonate and the WS Aurora Clear utilizing UHWMPE. Polycarbonate's stiffness translates into a more clear and resonant sound, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. In contrast, UHWMPE, a newer material for switch housings, offers a bright sound signature, generating resonant clacks when typing. This implies that the bottom housing plays a significant role in determining the switch's sound profile and tactile experience. Therefore, those seeking a particular bottom-out sound and experiencing clacks while typing may prefer the WS Aurora Clear with its UHWMPE bottom housing.
While there are differences between the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear, they share the use of polycarbonate in their top housings. As a result, users can expect similar sound profiles characterized by sharpness, higher pitches, and crispness from both switches. Moreover, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for those interested in utilizing RGB lighting effects. However, the switches diverge in terms of their bottom housings. The Crystal's polycarbonate bottom housing imparts qualities to the bottom-out sound and feel, while the WS Aurora Clear's UHWMPE bottom housing introduces a distinct bright sound signature and resonant clacks during typing. Thus, depending on individual preferences, users can select a switch that aligns with their desired sound experiences and tactile sensations.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, there are notable differences to consider. The Crystal has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the WS Aurora Clear's 53 grams. This means that the Crystal requires a slightly lighter touch to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, the Crystal has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams compared to the WS Aurora Clear's 63.5 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Crystal would be a better option as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing. This would be beneficial for individuals who frequently use their keyboards for work or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who enjoy a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience might prefer the WS Aurora Clear with its heavier forces.
It is important to note that while the forces differ between the two switches, the actuation and bottom out forces of both switches still fall within the medium range. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of overall responsiveness and feel when typing on either switch. Ultimately, the decision between the Outemu Crystal and the WS Aurora Clear would depend on the individual's personal preference for key weight and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, there is a slight difference between the two. The Crystal has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is the more traditional option, while the WS Aurora Clear has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the WS Aurora Clear the shorter option between the two.
Having a shorter travel distance can be beneficial for gamers who want faster response times, as it allows for quicker keystrokes. On the other hand, some individuals may feel that a shorter travel distance feels too abrupt and prefer switches with a deeper feel.
Both options provide differences in travel distance, allowing individuals to choose based on their personal preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear comes in at $8.00.
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, both the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch are described as high-pitched. They produce a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. If you prefer a more rich and bassy sound profile, these switches may not be your preference. However, keep in mind that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, you can expect a similar high-pitched sound from both switches.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Crystal switch is described as polished, which means it has a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switch is described as buttery. This indicates a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Additionally, the WS Aurora Clear switch is also labeled as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that appeals to most users. Both switches incorporate a polished design, resulting in a sleek and comfortable typing experience.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch have their distinctive qualities. The Crystal offers a fairly elastic feel with medium-light weight and a neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear switch provides a smooth and high-pitched typing experience with maximum RGB lighting customization. While they have some differences, both switches aim to provide satisfying and enjoyable typing experiences. Additionally, the sound and feel can be tailored to some extent by choosing the appropriate keyboard board and keycaps. So, depending on your preferences and requirements, you can achieve similar results with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a unique, linear typing experience with a medium-light weight, then the Outemu Crystal linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches have a fairly elastic feel and produce a neutral sound profile when typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, high-pitched typing experience with maximum RGB lighting customization, then the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch would be the better option. These switches have a transparent polycarbonate top housing and UHMWPE bottom housing, providing a satisfyingly smooth keystroke. Both switches have a high-pitched sound profile, but the Crystal switch is also described as chirpy, adding a distinct acoustic signature. Furthermore, the Crystal switch is described as polished, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel, while the WS Aurora Clear switch is described as buttery, providing a fluid and effortless typing sensation. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for weight, typing experience, sound profile, and lighting customization.
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