Keygeek Keylin vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keylin and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the type of switch you choose can significantly impact your typing experience. The Keygeek Keylin, a linear switch, is celebrated for its premium feel, characterized by rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a seamless and quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch offers a delightful compromise, featuring a snappy and noticeable tactile bump while maintaining a smooth actuation and a neutral sound profile, catering to users who enjoy some feedback without excessive noise. While the Keylin may appeal to typists seeking effortless key presses and minimal distractions, the WS Light Tactile caters to those who appreciate tactile feedback without overwhelming sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Spring
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Keygeek Keylin and Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile differ significantly in their top housing materials, which contributes to distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Keylin utilizes a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper, fuller sound due to nylon's softer nature. This softer plastic absorbs sound, resulting in a muted audio feedback that many users may find more satisfying, especially for quieter environments. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile features a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This difference in material composition means that while both switches may fulfill the tactile needs of a typist, the auditory feedback will vary, with the Keylin providing a more subdued sound and the WS Light Tactile offering a crisp, clear auditory signal.
On the other hand, both switches share nylon as their bottom housing material, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile in both cases. This commonality ensures that while the top housing creates distinct auditory experiences, the bottom housing offers consistency in terms of feel and sound when keys bottom out. The nylon used in both switches aids in sound absorption, which prevents the harshness that can be present with stiffer materials. Thus, regardless of the differences in top housing, Keylin and WS Light Tactile users will enjoy a nuanced keyboard experience characterized by a softer bottom-out sound, allowing for a sense of familiarity between the two switches.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in both keyboard switches reveals how specific housing compositions affect the overall typing experience. For switch enthusiasts, the nylon bottom housing offers a grounding consistency while the differing top materials provide an opportunity for personal preference in sound. Users keen on RGB lighting should consider the translucence of the WS Light Tactile's polycarbonate top, which enhances the aesthetic appeal of their setup. In contrast, those prioritizing muted typing might lean toward the Keylin, which, while lacking the crispness of polycarbonate, compensates with its rich and rounded sound profile. By understanding these nuances, keyboard users can select a switch that aligns with their auditory and tactile preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, we observe some differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Keylin switch has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, categorizing it as a lighter option. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile switch requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that users looking for a lighter switch for longer typing sessions or extended gaming might prefer the Keylin, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience might gravitate towards the heavier WS Light Tactile. While both switches are on the lighter end of the spectrum, the Keylin is the lighter switch overall, providing a softer touch, whereas the WS Light Tactile offers a firmer push.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, it's clear that they cater to different preferences. The Keylin features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Light Tactile has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Keylin offers a shorter travel distance, appealing to those who favor quicker responses, especially gamers who thrive on speed. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile, with its longer 4 mm travel distance, provides a more substantial feel, which can be more gratifying for users who appreciate a deeper keypress. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness and a quicker actuation, the Keylin switch would be the better choice, whereas the WS Light Tactile will suit those who prefer a more pronounced and deliberate keypress experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin for $3.29.
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
The Keygeek Keylin linear switch is known for delivering a rich acoustic profile. This means it produces a satisfying sound during typing, characterized by a smooth and muted thock, rather than the sharper clicks typical of tactile or clicky switches. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch features a neutral sound signature. This allows for a moderate actuation force requirement combined with a balanced sound profile, making it suitable for various environments—from quiet offices to home setups. While both switches may lend themselves to a pleasant auditory experience, the Keylin switch’s richer acoustics will appeal more to those who appreciate a deeper sound, whereas the WS Light Tactile is designed to provide a more subdued auditory feedback that still fulfills most typing needs.
In terms of feel, the Keylin linear switch is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness, which is a hallmark of linear switches. This smooth travel means that key presses do not encounter any tactile resistance, allowing for rapid and fluid typing without interruptions. Conversely, the WS Light Tactile switch offers a stepped tactile feedback, characterized by a noticeable bump during the key's actuation. This tactile feedback helps typists feel when a key has been successfully pressed, which can enhance typing accuracy. The WS Light Tactile switches are described as easy to press, requiring minimal force and reducing finger fatigue. This combination of tactile feedback and light actuation force makes the WS Light a comfortable option for long typing sessions, catering to users who prefer a bit of tactile engagement without overwhelming resistance.
Overall, both the Keygeek Keylin linear and Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. While the Keylin excels in providing a smooth, rich auditory experience devoid of tactile bumps, the WS Light Tactile provides a comfortable, easy-to-press feel with a subtle tactile feedback that can enhance typing precision. Choosing between the two ultimately boils down to personal preference—whether one prefers the luxurious sound and smoothness of a linear switch or the engaging tactile feedback and moderate sound of a tactile one. Both options promise a satisfying experience within their respective designs.
Conclusion
To wrap up, choosing between the Keygeek Keylin linear switches and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches ultimately depends on your preferences for typing feel, sound, and intended use. If you value a buttery smooth typing experience with less tactile feedback, the Keylin linear switches are an excellent choice, especially if you enjoy a light actuation force and want to minimize any sound while typing. They are ideal for gamers or typists who prioritize speed and smoothness in their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you appreciate a tactile feel while still enjoying a light actuation force, the WS Light Tactile switches may be more suitable for you. Their gentle tactile bump offers a great balance of feedback without being overly pronounced, making them well-suited for both casual typing and intense gaming sessions. The neutral sound profile also makes these switches versatile enough for various environments, from the office to gaming setups. Ultimately, whether you lean towards the smoothness of the Keylin or the balanced tactile feedback of the WS Light Tactile switches, each one delivers a distinct and enjoyable typing experience tailored to your needs.
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