Huano Grape Orange vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the Huano Grape Orange and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Grape Orange and Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switches present two compelling options, each with unique features to enhance your typing experience. The Grape Orange stands out with its ultra-low actuation force of just 40g, making it an ideal choice for long typing sessions where comfort and ease are paramount. Its lightweight feel promotes a lively typing experience that can reduce fatigue during extended use. On the other hand, the WS Yellow combines classic materials with innovative design, thanks to its 22mm double-stage spring that delivers a satisfying bounce and a distinctive sound signature appreciated by keyboard enthusiasts. While both switches cater to those seeking a smooth and effortless typing experience, the Grape Orange leans towards effortless keystrokes, whereas the WS Yellow offers a tactile delight alongside auditory feedback. 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
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Grape Orange and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow, the most pronounced difference lies in their top housing. The Grape Orange utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, a material known for its rigidity and ability to create a sharper, crisper sound profile. This characteristic lends itself to a more resonant acoustic experience, particularly suited for those who enjoy a clear and vibrant keystroke sound. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also enhances the visual aspect when paired with RGB lighting, illuminating the switches effectively and adding an aesthetic flair to the overall keyboard setup.
In contrast, the WS Yellow opts for nylon as its top housing material. Nylon is recognized as a classic choice in switch manufacturing due to its softer composition, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This results in a typing experience that is more rounded and subdued compared to the Grape Orange's polycarbonate top. While nylon can absorb sound more effectively than polycarbonate, which may lead to a more muted auditory feedback, the overall typing experience can feel comforting and plush, focusing on a more tactile engagement rather than an auditory one.
Both switches, however, share a commonality in their bottom housings, as both the Grape Orange and WS Yellow are crafted from nylon. This consistency in material ensures that, regardless of the contrasting top housings, the deeper, fuller sound profile is present during typing and bottom-out actions. Consequently, the overall impact on sound and feel during a key press is similar due to the nylon bottom housing. While users may experience different auditory engagements from the top of these switches, the foundational feel of the keystrokes will offer a consistent and balanced sound signature for both switches, highlighting how the dialectic of housing materials shapes the user's experience differently yet harmoniously.
Weight
The Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch present a comparison in terms of their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different user preferences. The Grape Orange features a light actuation force of 40 grams, which makes it suitable for extended typing sessions, while its bottom out force of 50 grams complements this lightness by providing a soft landing feel. In contrast, the WS Yellow has an actuation force that remains unspecified, yet it boasts a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. As a result, while both switches are relatively easy to press, the Grape Orange is the lighter switch overall, appealing to those who prefer a gentler touch. The WS Yellow, although having a higher bottom out force, may offer a more substantial feeling during keystrokes. Therefore, those looking for a light switch will find the Grape Orange more accommodating, whereas those who appreciate a slight increase in force at the bottom may lean towards the WS Yellow.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, we find that the Grape Orange has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Yellow measures at 3.8 mm. This means that the Grape Orange is the shorter option, providing a slightly quicker response time, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking rapid keypress actions. In contrast, the WS Yellow, with its longer travel distance, offers a more ample feel during key presses, which might appeal to users who prefer a deeper, more substantial typing experience. Thus, users looking for responsiveness may lean towards the Grape Orange, whereas those who appreciate a more pronounced feedback in their keystrokes might favor the WS Yellow.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Grape Orange has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Grape Orange for $2.79.
The Wuque Studio WS Yellow comes in at $3.50 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 considering the sound profile of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch, it is generally quieter than many other options, making it ideal for environments where noise may be a concern. The muted acoustics lend themselves well to a focused typing experience, allowing for a gentle tap without excess clatter. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch is known for its satisfying sound signature, which enthusiasts appreciate. While it remains quieter than tactile or clicky switches, the materials used in the WS Yellow provide a subtle yet pleasant auditory feedback that complements the tactile experience without being intrusive. However, it's important to note that the overall sound will also depend on the keyboard build and the keycaps used, which can alter these qualities significantly.
In terms of feel, the Huano Grape Orange switch offers a notably light and effortless typing experience due to its ultra-low 40g actuation force. This makes it especially appealing for those who engage in long typing sessions without experiencing finger fatigue. The sensation is direct and uncomplicated, providing a seamless flow without any interruptions. In contrast, the WS Yellow switch is described as "creamy," delivering a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels effortless and exhilarating. The added bounce from the double-stage spring contributes to a more dynamic feel, while the mild and polished characteristics enhance the overall tactile smoothness of each keystroke. The combination of these elements creates a slightly more engaging touch experience compared to the lighter Grape Orange, appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate depth in their key feel.
In conclusion, both the Huano Grape Orange and Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switches offer lightweight typing experiences, but they cater to slightly different preferences. The Grape Orange is ideal for those prioritizing a light touch and minimal sound, making it perfect for extended use in quieter settings. The WS Yellow, while also lightweight, enriches the experience with its creamy feel and satisfying sound, making it more appealing to those who enjoy a bit of auditory and tactile pleasure in their typing. Ultimately, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, though the nuances of feel and sound may appeal differently to individual users.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Huano Grape Orange and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switches hinges on your specific typing preferences and how you intend to use your keyboard. If you value a lightweight and effortless experience during extended typing sessions, the Grape Orange's ultra-low 40g actuation force and 50g bottom out force will likely be more suitable for you. This switch offers a uniquely light feel, allowing for quick keystrokes with minimal finger fatigue, which can be particularly beneficial for writers, programmers, or anyone who spends long hours typing. On the other hand, if you seek a more balanced typing feedback with just a tad more resistance, the WS Yellow, with its medium-light 53g bottom out force and creamy, polished feel, might be the better choice. This switch not only provides a satisfying bounce thanks to its double-stage spring but also delivers a smooth and refined typing experience that’s both enjoyable and versatile, making it ideal for gamers and general users who appreciate a slight tactile engagement while they type. Ultimately, it’s about aligning the feel and sound of each switch with your personal typing style; both options have distinct qualities that cater to different user experiences.