Outemu Crystal vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Crystal and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile offer distinct typing experiences. The Crystal switches provide a unique, linear typing feel with a medium-light weight, creating an elastic sensation. In terms of sound, the Crystal switches have a neutral profile, ensuring a quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switches deliver a remarkable tactile bump with a tactile force of 70g, providing satisfying resistance and making typing an engaging journey. These switches also offer a captivating sound profile, thanks to Wuque Studios' nylon housings, resulting in a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Crystal features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic that produces a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile utilizes a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound profile. Despite these differences, both housing materials can be visually appealing if RGB lighting is utilized since polycarbonate's translucency and the crystal clear appearance of nylon are useful for enhancing lighting effects.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Crystal once again utilizes polycarbonate, while the WS Heavy Tactile employs nylon. This translates to similar sound profiles as in the top housing comparison. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Crystal contributes to the sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile associated with it. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the WS Heavy Tactile creates a deeper and fuller sound. The bottom housing, as the key is pressed down, has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. With the Crystal, the stiffer polycarbonate plastic provides a clearer and more resonant sound upon bottoming out, while the softer nylon in the WS Heavy Tactile gives a more rounded and muffled impact.
In terms of overall functionality, both switches demonstrate different sound characteristics based on their housing materials. The Crystal's polycarbonate housing, whether in the top or bottom, results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound that is more resonant. This provides a distinct audible feedback when keys are pressed and released. Conversely, the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, as the softer plastic absorbs more sound and produces a slightly duller sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches' housing materials will depend on personal preference in terms of the desired sound profile, aesthetic considerations, and the intended use of RGB lighting effects.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Crystal has an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a medium-light touch to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the WS Heavy Tactile is not available, leaving it unknown. However, the Crystal has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams, indicating the amount of force needed to fully press the key. The WS Heavy Tactile, on the other hand, has a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it lighter in comparison.
Considering weight is essential for individuals who prioritize typing comfort over extended periods. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Crystal switch, enabling them to type for longer durations without fatigue. This makes it suitable for work environments or lengthy gaming sessions. However, for those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the WS Heavy Tactile may be the preferable choice. While the actuation force for this switch is unknown, its bottom out force of 45 grams suggests a lighter touch overall, which could be ideal for individuals who prioritize a comfortable typing experience. Irrespective of the differences, both switches offer their own advantages depending on personal preferences and individual typing styles.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Crystal has a travel distance of 4.0mm, which is the more traditional option. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2mm. This makes the Crystal the longer option between the two. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times. So, if you prioritize a more responsive typing experience, the WS Heavy Tactile would be the better choice. However, for those who enjoy a deeper feel while typing, the Crystal's longer travel distance may be more satisfying. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
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 Heavy Tactile comes in at $3.50.
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 Crystal linear switch offers a unique acoustic signature. Described as chirpy, these switches have a subtle squeak that sets them apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving it a clacky profile. Additionally, the Wuque Heavy Tactile Switches have a resonant sound profile thanks to their nylon housing, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience. Both switches share the characteristic of being high-pitched, producing sharp and crisp sounds. It is important to note that the sound of the switches is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Crystal linear switch offers a polished experience. This indicates a smooth and refined finish that results in sleek typing. With reduced friction and smooth key travel, these switches offer a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch provides an accented feel. It falls under the category of a medium tactile switch, offering a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Furthermore, this switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, adding a lively feel to each keypress. The WS Heavy Tactile also offers an invigorating feel with pronounced feedback and a snappy and reactive nature. Lastly, the switch is described as sharp, indicating a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with every keypress. It is evident that both switches offer different tactile experiences.
Considering all the available information, the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch have contrasting subjective qualities both in terms of sound and feel. The Crystal switch offers a neutral and unique chirpy sound profile, while the WS Heavy Tactile switch provides a clacky and resonant sound profile. In terms of feel, the Crystal switch offers a polished and smooth typing experience, while the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers an accented, bouncy, invigorating, sharp, and snappy typing experience. While they differ in qualities, it's important to note that the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference. However, if you prefer a linear typing experience with a similar sound profile to the Crystal switch, you can achieve similar results by selecting a high-pitched switch with a smooth and refined finish.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a unique linear typing experience with a medium-light weight, the Outemu Crystal switches are an excellent choice. These switches provide a fairly elastic type feel and have a bottom out force of 55 grams, resulting in a comfortable typing experience. Additionally, you can expect a neutral sound profile, making them great for those who prefer a quieter typing experience.
On the other hand, if you desire a more tactile typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches are a perfect fit. These switches offer a profound and pronounced tactile bump with a tactile force of 70 grams, giving each keystroke a satisfying resistance. Not only do they provide an exceptional tactile experience, but they also deliver a captivating sound profile. The nylon housings contribute to a "thocky" resonance, creating a satisfying auditory feedback with every keystroke.
If you enjoy a chirpy and high-pitched sound when typing, the Crystal switches are the way to go. The WS Heavy Tactile switches, on the other hand, offer a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound profile, providing a crisp and immersive auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Crystal switches have a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. The WS Heavy Tactile switches, on the other hand, offer an accented tactile feel, giving a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. Additionally, these switches have a bouncy and invigorating feel, providing a spring-like feedback sensation and creating an immersive typing experience.
Ultimately, when choosing between the Outemu Crystal linear switches and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches, it depends on your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a linear switch with a medium-light weight and a neutral sound profile, the Crystal switches are a great option. However, if you desire a tactile switch with a satisfying resistance, a captivating sound profile, and a prominent amount of tactility, the WS Heavy Tactile switches are the way to go. Consider your personal preferences and needs to make an informed decision.
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