Outemu Crystal vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come up for consideration are the Outemu Crystal, a linear switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Red, also a linear switch. The Crystal switches are best known for their unique combination of an elastic type feel and medium-light weight, resulting in a one-of-a-kind linear typing experience. Typing on these switches also produces a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for quiet environments. On the other hand, the WS Red switches offer a bouncy and responsive typing experience, thanks to their 22mm double-stage spring. While they provide a familiar sound signature due to their classic material blend, they come with a heavier actuation force, adding a touch of weight to each keystroke. This delivers a satisfying and substantial typing feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches differ in terms of the materials used and the resulting sound profile. The Crystal switch utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, while the WS Red switch uses a nylon top and bottom housing. The polycarbonate housing of the Crystal switch creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. On the other hand, the nylon housing of the WS Red switch elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound.
Aesthetically, both switches have housing materials that lend themselves well to specific features. The polycarbonate housing of the Crystal switch is translucent, making it particularly suitable for RGB lighting if that is a desired feature. However, the WS Red switch's nylon housing does not offer this translucency. In terms of feel, the bottom housing plays a bigger role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch. Therefore, the characteristics of the Crystal's polycarbonate bottom housing and the WS Red's nylon bottom housing will be felt differently when pressing down on the switches.
When it comes to the sound upon releasing a key, the top housing material becomes more significant. The polycarbonate top housing of the Crystal switch contributes to a distinct sound when letting go of a key, while the nylon top housing of the WS Red switch affects the sound in a different way. Despite their differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles and performance based on their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Crystal switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a medium-light typing experience, while requiring 55 grams to bottom out. On the other hand, the WS Red switch's actuation force is unknown, but it requires 67 grams to bottom out, making it medium-heavy. Although the actuation force of the WS Red switch is not specified, its heavier bottom out force suggests a stronger push feel compared to the Crystal switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer usage periods, the Crystal switch would be more suitable, while the WS Red switch would be ideal for individuals seeking a more substantial and sturdy typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it is clear that the Crystal has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Red has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the WS Red offers a slightly shallower key press experience compared to the Crystal. However, both switches fall within the category of shorter travel distances when compared to the more traditional 4.0 mm.
For gamers or individuals seeking faster response times, the WS Red may be the preferred option due to its slightly shorter travel distance. The shorter distance allows for quicker key presses and potentially improved gaming performance. However, for those who prefer a deeper and more substantial key press feel, the Crystal with its longer travel distance may be the better choice.
Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience. Both switches offer their own advantages, with the WS Red providing a quicker and more responsive feel, while the Crystal offers a deeper and more substantial key press.
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 Red 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
The Outemu Crystal linear switch is best known for its unique, elastic type feel and medium-light weight, resulting in a distinctive linear typing experience. When typing on these switches, you can expect a neutral sound profile, without any noticeable squeaks or high-pitched sounds. The Crystal switch offers a polished feel, which means it has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction, smooth key travel, and a sleek typing experience.
On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch is characterized by a bouncy and responsive typing experience, thanks to its 22mm double-stage spring. It retains a familiar sound signature, attributed to its classic material blend. The actuation force of the WS Red switch is heavier than the Crystal switch, adding a touch of weight to each keystroke and delivering a satisfying and substantial typing feel. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available regarding the sound or feel traits of the WS Red switch.
In conclusion, the Outemu Crystal and Wuque Studio WS Red linear switches offer different subjective qualities. The Crystal switch provides an elastic and medium-light typing experience with a neutral sound profile, while the WS Red switch offers a bouncy and responsive feel with a familiar sound signature. Although lacking specific information on the sound and feel of the WS Red switch, based on the available information, it is clear that the switches provide distinct typing experiences. However, depending on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen, it is important to note that the sound of each switch may be influenced.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a unique and smooth typing experience with a medium-light weight, the Outemu Crystal linear switch is a great choice. These switches offer an elastic feel and have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch would be more fitting. With its double-stage spring and classic material blend, these switches provide a satisfying and substantial typing feel. While there is limited information available about the sound and feel of the WS Red switches, the Crystal switches are known for their chirpy and high-pitched sound. Additionally, they are described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. Overall, both switches have their own unique characteristics, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
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