Outemu Crystal vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Crystal and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow. The Crystal switches are known for their unique, linear typing experience, offering a fairly elastic feel and medium-light weight. Typing on these switches is accompanied by a neutral sound profile, making them ideal for those who prefer a quieter keyboard. On the other hand, the WS Yellow switches boast a timeless fusion of classic materials and cutting-edge engineering. Equipped with a 22mm double-stage spring, these switches provide a delightful typing experience with a satisfying bounce. Enthusiasts especially appreciate the familiar sound signature that comes with this switch. Additionally, the WS Yellow switches are crafted to be lightweight, enabling effortless and fluid keystrokes. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch to suit your typing preferences and needs.

By the numbers

Outemu Crystal Linear

Wuque Studio WS Yellow Linear

$3.40 per 10

$3.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Crystal's polycarbonate top and bottom housing create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the WS Yellow's nylon top and bottom housing elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.

Aesthetically, both switches offer unique characteristics. The Crystal's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, allowing for vibrant RGB lighting effects. This makes it an ideal choice for those who plan to use RGB lighting in their keyboard setup. On the other hand, the WS Yellow does not boast the same translucent feature. Instead, its nylon top housing exudes a classic and timeless look that may appeal to those who prefer a more traditional aesthetic.

While there are notable differences between the top and bottom housing materials of these switches, it is important to consider their impact on the overall typing experience. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the resulting sound and feel. The Crystal's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to its sharp and resonant bottom-out sound. Similarly, the WS Yellow's nylon bottom housing adds depth and fullness to the typing experience. Conversely, the top housing of both switches primarily affects the sound produced when releasing a key.

In summary, the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow have distinct characteristics and produce different sound profiles. While the Crystal's polycarbonate housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, the WS Yellow's nylon housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. Their aesthetic appeal also differs, with the Crystal featuring a translucent top housing for RGB lighting effects, while the WS Yellow exudes a classic look. However, both switches demonstrate how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and the top housing affecting the sound upon key release.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, there are a few similarities and differences to consider. Starting with the actuation force, the Crystal requires 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, whereas the exact force for the WS Yellow is unavailable. However, we know that both switches fall under the category of medium-light actuation force.

Moving on to the bottom out force, the Crystal has a slightly higher measurement of 55 grams, compared to the WS Yellow which has a bottom out force of 53 grams. While the Crystal is slightly heavier in this aspect, both switches still fall within the medium-light range, providing a balance between typing comfort and feedback.

Weight is an essential factor to consider when selecting a switch, as it can greatly impact the typing experience. Some individuals prefer a lighter switch, such as the Crystal, as it allows for longer periods of typing without experiencing fatigue. This makes it ideal for work environments or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial, tactile typing experience may opt for a switch with a heavier actuation force.

In conclusion, the actuation and bottom out forces of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch are relatively similar. Both switches have medium-light actuation forces, with the Crystal being slightly lighter in terms of bottom out force. Therefore, if someone is looking for a switch with a similar feel in terms of actuation force, both options would provide similar results.

Travel distance

In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, we can see that the Crystal has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the WS Yellow has a slightly shorter distance of 3.8 mm. The 4.0 mm distance is more traditional, offering a sense of depth when pressing down on a key, while the 3.8 mm distance of the WS Yellow is slightly more shallow. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the WS Yellow a favorable choice for those seeking a more responsive keyboard. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt, and may prefer the 4.0 mm travel distance of the Crystal for a more satisfying feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired keyboard performance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Crystal linear switch provides a unique acoustic experience. They have a slightly chirpy sound, adding a subtle squeak that sets them apart from other switches. Additionally, they produce a high-pitched sound, resulting in a sharp and crisp tone when pressed. If you prefer a sound profile that is not overly rich or bassy, the Crystal switches are a good option. On the other hand, there is no specific information available regarding the sound characteristics of the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switches. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the Outemu Crystal linear switch offers a polished experience. With a smooth and refined finish, these switches provide a sleek typing sensation. This can be attributed to the materials used and/or factory lubing, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switches are described as creamy. This indicates a smooth and buttery typing experience, often achieved through factory lubrication or specific materials. Using these switches feels like effortlessly gliding your fingers across the keys, with each keystroke melting into the next. The WS Yellow switches also offer a mild typing experience, with qualities that fall in a safe middle-ground zone between more pronounced switches. Similar to the Crystal switches, the WS Yellow switches are also described as polished, providing a sleek and refined feel.

In conclusion, the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Crystal switches produce a chirpy, high-pitched sound, while the WS Yellow switches have a sound signature that is currently unknown. In terms of feel, the Crystal switches offer a polished typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel, while the WS Yellow switches provide a creamy, mild sensation with effortless keystrokes. While the WS Yellow switches' sound signature is not specified, based on the available information, it is expected that they will offer a familiar sound signature adored by keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, both switches offer unique and enjoyable typing experiences, catering to different preferences.

Conclusion

To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, consider the specific qualities that each switch offers. The Crystal switch provides a unique, linear typing experience with its fairly elastic feel and medium-light weight. It also generates a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Yellow switch incorporates a 22mm double-stage spring, resulting in a satisfying bounce and a delightful typing experience. It offers a familiar sound signature that enthusiasts appreciate and ensures effortless keystrokes for a smooth and fluid typing experience. Additionally, both switches have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Crystal Linear

$3.40 per 10

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Wuque Studio WS Yellow Linear

$3.50 per 10

Learn more