Kailh BCP vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Kailh BCP and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switches, the choices can significantly influence your typing experience and overall satisfaction. The Kailh BCP switch, known for its creamy and bouncy feel, offers a linear profile that eliminates disassembly hassles while delivering a refreshing poppy and clacky sound. This makes it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke with a touch of auditory delight. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch provides a profoundly tactile experience with a robust 70g bump, offering immersive resistance and a captivating "thocky" sound thanks to its nylon housings. This switch is perfect for those who appreciate pronounced feedback with a satisfying auditory response, allowing for more engaging typing sessions. While the BCP caters to those seeking fluidity and elegance, the WS Heavy Tactile is designed for users who thrive on tactile reassurance and resonance. 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
52g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh BCP and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches, it is noteworthy that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This commonality suggests that typists can expect a cohesive sound profile from both switches, characterized by a deeper and fuller auditory experience. The use of nylon, a softer plastic, mitigates the harsher acoustic qualities that are often associated with harder plastics, allowing for a more muted and rounded sound. As a result, users of either switch will likely find a satisfying typing sound that promotes a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
In terms of tactile feedback and overall feel, the fact that both the BCP and WS Heavy Tactile switches share identical housing materials in both the top and bottom components further enhances their performance. Since both switches employ nylon throughout, the qualities of the bottom housing will affect the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will contribute to the auditory experience upon releasing a key. Consequently, typists can expect consistent tactile feedback and sound characteristics from either switch, which may make it easier for keyboard enthusiasts to switch between the two without feeling a significant difference.
While the similarities in housing materials provide a unified sound and feel experience in both switches, any differences in their performance will more likely stem from the unique switch mechanisms and tactile profiles they offer. However, with the nylon housing being a key factor, users will experience similar sound profiles, and their typing experiences may converge due to the inherent qualities of nylon. Thus, the choice between the Kailh BCP and Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile may ultimately depend more on individual preferences in switch characteristics than on significant distinctions in the materials used.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces, while their bottom out forces present a more nuanced picture. The BCP switch has an actuation force of 52 grams, making it heavier than the WS Heavy Tactile, which requires only 45 grams to actuate. This means that typists who prefer a light touch may find the WS Heavy Tactile more comfortable for long typing sessions. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the WS Heavy Tactile takes the lead with a 70-gram bottom out compared to the BCP's 63.5 grams, indicating that while the actuation feels lighter, you will experience a heavier push through the full extension. Overall, the BCP provides a more substantial typing experience with a higher actuation force, whereas those seeking a lighter touch may gravitate toward the WS Heavy Tactile, despite its heavier bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, the BCP features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the WS Heavy Tactile has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. This means that the BCP provides a slightly deeper press than the WS Heavy Tactile, which might appeal to users who prefer a more pronounced tactile experience. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile's shorter travel distance can offer quicker response times, making it suitable for gamers seeking rapid actuation. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches depends on personal preference: those who enjoy a more responsive feel may opt for the WS Heavy Tactile, while those who prefer a more substantial keystroke might find the BCP to be more satisfying.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh BCP has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the BCP for $4.75.
The Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile 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 it comes to sound, the Kailh BCP linear switch offers a unique auditory experience characterized by its distinctive poppy and clacky sound profile. This sound is both engaging and bubbly, making typing feel more lively and fun. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch produces a more resonant and thocky sound due to its nylon housing. The High-pitched, clacky nature of the WS switch can evoke an immersive auditory experience, characterized by sharp, crisp, and bright sounds that almost echo with each keystroke. Collectively, both switches provide enjoyable sound profiles, though they cater to different auditory preferences—BCP for those who appreciate a more percussive note, and WS for those who lean toward a clearer, resonant type.
In terms of feel, the Kailh BCP's creamy, elastic nature allows for a distinctly bouncy typing experience, offering users a fluid and playful interaction with each keystroke. This switch captures a sense of liveliness that is quite compelling, particularly for users who enjoy a softer, linear feel. Meanwhile, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch boasts an array of engaging tactile qualities including a strong 70g bump that provides immersive resistance. This switch’s pronounced, sharp tactile feedback is invigorating and snappy, offering a firmer typing sensation with an enticing rebound. While both the BCP and WS switches deliver enjoyable tactile feedback, the BCP leans more towards a smooth and bouncy feel, whereas the WS provides a more structured and defined tactile experience.
In conclusion, both the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch have their distinct characteristics. The BCP's poppy, clacky sounds alongside its elastic, bouncy feel attract those who enjoy a lighter, more playful typing experience. Conversely, the WS’s thocky sound and robust tactile feedback cater to enthusiasts seeking a more pronounced and immersive interaction. Ultimately, the choice between the two will hinge on personal preferences for auditory and tactile sensations, but either switch can deliver a satisfying typing experience tailored to your individual style.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a smooth and bouncy experience with a lively feel, accompanied by a signature poppy and clacky sound that can add some personality to your typing, the Kailh BCP will likely suit you well. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a balanced, medium-heavy resistance without overwhelming tactile feedback, making it versatile for both typing and gaming. On the other hand, if you're drawn to a pronounced tactile experience with a satisfying "thocky" sound, then the WS Heavy Tactile would be the better option. With its stronger bump and an immersive auditory experience, it provides a more engaging and dynamic interaction that can enhance your typing enjoyment, particularly for heavy typists who like a bit more feedback. Ultimately, your choice should align with how you prioritize sound, feel, and the specific tactile feedback you seek in your mechanical keyboard.
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