TTC Gold Red vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Red linear switch to the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gold Red provides a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium resistance, giving it a subtle and polished feel. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch maintains smoothness but adds a noticeable tactile bump for those who prefer a bit more feedback while typing. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile, but the Gold Red adds a snappy touch while the WS Light Tactile remains more stepped in its sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for smoothness, feedback, and sound profile. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
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
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making them especially suitable for switches with RGB lighting. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also brings a level of transparency that adds to the aesthetic appeal of the switches. However, the bottom housing material differs between the two switches, with the Gold Red utilizing nylon while the WS Light Tactile also incorporates nylon for its bottom housing.
The nylon bottom housing of both the TTC Gold Red and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to stiffer plastics. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches means that each housing material brings its own unique qualities to the typing experience. While the impact of the bottom housing is felt more during bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when a key is released.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the TTC Gold Red and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile reflects the manufacturers' attention to detail in creating switches with distinct sound profiles. The utilization of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches emphasizes clarity and resonance, while the nylon bottom housing enhances the depth and fullness of the typing experience. Despite these differences in housing materials, both switches offer similar results in terms of sound profile, making them viable options for users seeking a specific typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, we find that both switches have a similar bottom out force of 50 grams. However, the Gold Red has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the WS Light Tactile's 45 grams. This means that the Gold Red may feel lighter and easier to press initially, while the WS Light Tactile may provide a slightly more tactile feedback when typing. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Gold Red for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may enjoy the slightly heavier feel of the WS Light Tactile for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in that aspect. This means that users will experience a similar tactile feel when pressing down on the keys of a keyboard equipped with either of these switches. Both switches provide a moderate travel distance that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort. Ultimately, whether you choose the Gold Red or the WS Light Tactile will depend on other factors such as actuation force, sound, and overall typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red for $3.28.
The Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile comes in at $4.20 per 10 switches.
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 TTC Gold Red linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile that adds a touch of personality to your keyboard without being too loud or distracting. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch provides a neutral sound signature that is suitable for most environments, making it a versatile option for both beginners and advanced users. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Red switch provides a mild and silky typing experience with a subtle and polished finish, making it a smooth and refined option for most users. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch offers a stepped feel with easy-to-press keys that require minimal force to activate, enhancing the typing experience by reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the Gold Red leans towards a smoother feel while the WS Light Tactile focuses on responsiveness and low-impact typing.
Considering all the available information, the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch both have their own strengths in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a switch with a deeper and richer sound profile along with a silky typing experience, the Gold Red may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you value a versatile sound signature and an easy-to-press feel for extended typing sessions, the WS Light Tactile is a solid choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you're looking for.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you value a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a snappy sound profile, the Gold Red switch is a great choice. However, if you prefer a switch that maintains smoothness with a snappy and perceptible tactile bump, along with a neutral sound signature, then the WS Light Tactile switch is more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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