Outemu Crystal vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch. The Crystal switch is known for its unique linear typing experience, offering a fairly elastic feel with medium-light weight that results in a smooth typing sensation. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch is praised for its smoothness, snappy tactile bump, and neutral sound profile, providing a satisfying typing experience. Each switch offers its own set of strengths, with the Crystal switch being ideal for those who prefer a linear feel and neutral sound, while the WS Light Tactile switch appeals to those who value smoothness, tactility, and a quiet typing experience. 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
50g
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Crystal and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that resonates well, creating a clear and distinct sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the keyboard. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches ensures a consistent and pleasing sound experience for users.
While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing, they differ in their bottom housing materials. The Crystal features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to the overall sound profile when the keys are pressed. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to polycarbonate, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. This distinction in bottom housing materials gives each switch a unique typing experience, catering to different preferences in sound and feel.
The split between the top and bottom housing materials of a switch plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of typing on a keyboard. The bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel is especially noticeable when pressing down on the keys, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. While the Crystal and the WS Light Tactile may share a common polycarbonate top housing, their different bottom housing materials offer users a chance to experience varied typing experiences. Whether one prefers a sharper and crisper sound profile or a deeper and fuller sound, the choice between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, we can see that they both have a similar actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Outemu Crystal has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams compared to the WS Light Tactile's 50 grams. This means that the Outemu Crystal provides a slightly more substantial typing experience compared to the lighter feel of the WS Light Tactile. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods may lean towards the WS Light Tactile, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may find the Outemu Crystal more to their liking. Either way, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, and users can expect similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of key travel distance regardless of which switch they choose. Both switches offer a moderate travel distance that strikes a balance between providing tactile feedback and allowing for smooth and efficient keystrokes. Overall, whether you opt for the Outemu Crystal switch or the WS Light Tactile switch, you can expect similar results 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 Light Tactile comes in at $4.20.
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 has a chirpy and high-pitched sound profile, giving it a unique acoustic signature that sets it apart. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch has a neutral sound signature, making it suitable for various typing environments. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Crystal linear switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch is characterized as stepped and easy-to-press, offering a gentle resistance during key presses and a responsive, low-impact typing feel. The stepped nature of the switch provides a two-stage tactile experience, adding a unique typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Crystal switch provides a chirpy and high-pitched sound with a polished feel, the WS Light Tactile switch delivers a neutral sound profile with a stepped and easy-to-press typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference in sound and typing feel, ensuring you get the desired experience based on your preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, consider the factors that are most important to you in a keyboard switch. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a unique linear typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Crystal may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a light bottom out force, a smooth and snappy tactile bump, and a neutral sound signature, the WS Light Tactile switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, it's essential to choose a switch that aligns with your preferences for typing feel, sound, and overall typing experience. Make sure to test out both switches if possible to determine which one best suits your needs and preferences.
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