TTC Gold Red vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Red and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ stand out as two exceptional linear options, each with distinctive qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The Gold Red linear switches offer a light to medium level of resistance and deliver a buttery smooth typing experience, enhanced by a subtle, low-pitched sound profile that adds a touch of personality to your setup without overwhelming it. On the other hand, the WS POM+ switches shine with their all-POM construction, providing a deep, satisfying "thock" sound signature and an exceptionally smooth keystroke, appealing to those who enjoy a more resonant auditory feedback while typing. While both switches are linear and designed for a seamless typing experience, the Gold Red leans towards a softer and polished feel, while the WS POM+ emphasizes a rich acoustic character. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Red switches and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches present a fascinating comparison that highlights the diversity in sound profiles caused by different plastics. The Gold Red utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, clearer, and more resonant sound. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which helps create a higher-pitched auditory experience that is particularly accentuated when RGB lighting is employed for aesthetic purposes. In contrast, the WS POM+ features a POM top housing that produces a deeper, more muted sound profile. This distinct preference for sound texture shows significant differences between the two materials, as polycarbonate's translucent quality and firm characteristics lead to a brighter auditory feedback during keystrokes compared to the more subdued tones of POM.
At the bottom of the switches, both models continue to reflect their unique identities in sound production. The TTC Gold Red is built with a nylon bottom housing, a classic choice that is known for offering a deeper, fuller sound profile that is softer and more absorbent. This creates a sound that is dulled and rounded when typing, which complements the sharper sounds of the polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the WS POM+ features a POM bottom housing that mirrors its top housing's sound characteristics—producing a pleasingly deep sound but leaning towards that muted quality. This consistency in utilizing POM for both the top and bottom of the WS POM+ contributes to a more homogenous auditory experience, resulting in a sound that is unique yet balanced across the spectrum.
In terms of overall performance, the differences in housing materials highlight how the qualities of each can influence typing experience and auditory feedback. For the TTC Gold Red, the contrasting characteristics of the polycarbonate top with the nylon bottom create a dynamic interplay that results in both sharp high notes and deeper undertones. In contrast, the WS POM+ offers a unified sound profile that is characterized by a consistent depth from both the top and bottom housing materials. In essence, while both switches can provide satisfying auditory experiences through their unique material compositions, the method of achieving those results varies remarkably, revealing a rich diversity in tactile and auditory feedback in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, the key differences lie in their actuation and bottom out forces, which can significantly influence user experience. The TTC Gold Red switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the WS POM+ switch operates at a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, positioning it within the medium-light category. This difference means that users preferring a lighter switch might favor the Gold Red for its ease of use, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may appreciate the added resistance of the WS POM+. Ultimately, while both switches have unique characteristics, the Gold Red is the lighter option, and the WS POM+ offers a heavier feel.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This indicates that the Gold Red provides a more traditional feel, which some users may prefer for a deeper, more tactile experience. On the other hand, the WS POM+ switch appeals to gamers and those seeking faster response times with its shorter travel distance, allowing for quicker key presses. Ultimately, while both switches cater to different user preferences, the Gold Red is the longer option and might be more suitable for those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke, whereas the WS POM+ is the shorter option, catering to users who prioritize speed and responsiveness.
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 POM+ comes in at $3.90 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
The sound profile of the TTC Gold Red linear switch is characterized by a thocky, low-pitched tone that provides a deep, satisfying sound when pressed. This sound is rich and mellow, delivering a pleasant auditory experience without being overly intrusive, making it suitable for use in both quiet home environments and shared workspaces. While the specific sound qualities of the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch are unspecified, it is anticipated that its POM composition may contribute to a similar depth and richness in sound, given that POM is known for enhancing the acoustic properties of switches. However, without detailed descriptors, a precise comparison remains uncertain.
When it comes to the feel, the Gold Red switch excels with its buttery smooth and polished characteristics, providing a mild resistance that ensures a gentle typing experience. The silky texture minimizes friction during key presses, while the subtle nature means it won't disrupt others in a shared area. As for the WS POM+ switch, no specific descriptors of its feel are provided, leaving an unknown in terms of its overall typing experience. However, given that both switches are designed for a smooth typing experience, it is likely that the WS POM+ could offer a comparable level of comfort.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Red linear switch presents a notable balance between sound and feel, providing a rich auditory experience and silky typing sensation suitable for various environments. While the WS POM+ linear switch promises an excellent typing experience, the lack of explicit descriptors leaves some qualities to be desired in a direct comparison. If you are seeking similar results, particularly in terms of sound and feel, both switches appear to align closely on the recommendations for a smooth typing experience, yet the specific qualities of the WS POM+ still warrant further exploration to ascertain its full characteristics.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you're looking for a switch that offers a very light resistance with a buttery smooth feel and a subtle yet snappy sound profile, the Gold Red would be an ideal choice. It's particularly suitable for those who want a comfortable typing experience for long periods, whether for work or gaming, and its moderate sound profile makes it great for quieter environments. On the other hand, if you're after a deeper, more satisfying "thock" sound and a slightly heavier feel, the WS POM+ is worth considering. Its unique POM construction provides a smooth keystroke with a pronounced auditory feedback that many typists find immensely pleasurable. The WS POM+ is great for those who enjoy a more substantial pressing sensation, along with a richer sound experience, making it perfect for both casual and enthusiast use. In summary, assess what kind of tactile and auditory feedback you prefer, and let that guide your decision.
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