Outemu Crystal vs. Wuque Studio WS Jade
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Crystal and the Wuque Studio WS Jade mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Crystal offers a linear typing experience with a unique elastic feel and medium-light weight, resulting in a neutral sound profile while typing. On the other hand, the WS Jade stands out for its use of a metallic insert in the stem base, creating a bright, resonant sound profile paired with a light diffuser for an enchanting RGB display. While the Crystal is known for its chirpy and polished feel, the WS Jade is described as clacky, marbly, resonant, silky, and creamy. Both switches have their own merits, but diving deeper into their specific characteristics will help you make the best choice for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Overall, the Outemu Crystal and the Wuque Studio WS Jade both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the sound profile of the switches. While the Crystal features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, the WS Jade opts for a POM top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound characteristics between the two materials showcases how the housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience.
In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate housing of the Outemu Crystal allows it to be translucent, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the POM housing of the WS Jade may not be translucent but still offers a unique sound profile that sets it apart. While the Crystal focuses on providing a clear and resonant sound profile, the WS Jade prioritizes a pleasing and deep sound experience. Despite their differences, both housing materials are designed to enhance the overall typing feel and sound of the switches.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Crystal and the Wuque Studio WS Jade will depend on individual preferences in sound and typing experience. Those who prefer a sharper and crisper sound may lean towards the Crystal with its polycarbonate housing, while others who enjoy a deeper and more muted sound may find the WS Jade more appealing. Regardless of the choice, both switches offer quality housing materials that contribute to a unique and satisfying typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Crystal linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, which has an actuation force of 50 grams. Both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Crystal requiring 55 grams and the WS Jade needing 60 grams. The Crystal switch would be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue, while the WS Jade switch would provide a slightly more substantial feel for those who prefer a bit more resistance when typing. In terms of weight, the Crystal is lighter overall, making it a great option for extended use, while the WS Jade provides a bit more resistance for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on personal preference for actuation force and typing feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered to be a more traditional option. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Gamers may lean towards the WS Jade switch due to its shorter travel distance, which can result in faster response times during gameplay. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance of the WS Jade to be too abrupt, preferring the more traditional and slightly longer travel distance of the Outemu Crystal. Both switches offer a smooth linear actuation, but the choice between the two may come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance.
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 Jade comes in at $4.30.
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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Crystal linear switch is best characterized by a chirpy and high-pitched sound profile, providing a unique acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch offers a clacky, marbly, and resonant sound experience, creating a bright metallic and resonant tone when typing. Both switches provide distinct sound profiles, with the Crystal offering a chirpy and high-pitched sound, while the WS Jade delivers a clacky, marbly, and resonant tone.
Moving on to the feel, the Outemu Crystal switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade switch provides a silky and creamy feel, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches offer a unique tactile sensation, with the Crystal providing a polished typing experience, while the WS Jade offers a silky and creamy feel.
In conclusion, the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch each offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Crystal switch provides a chirpy and high-pitched sound with a polished typing feel, the WS Jade switch delivers a clacky, marbly, and resonant sound with a silky and creamy typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired sound and feel for the typing experience. Whether you opt for the Crystal or the WS Jade, you can expect a unique and satisfying typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, consider the unique characteristics of each switch. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a neutral sound profile with a slightly elastic feel, the Outemu Crystal switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force, a bright metallic and resonant sound profile, and a smooth and creamy typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS Jade switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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