Bsun Kiki Red vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Bsun Kiki Red and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Kiki Red and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile offer unique typing experiences for enthusiasts. The Kiki Red is a linear switch that provides a finely-tuned typing experience with a comfortably high-pitched, clacky nuance. It features all-POM housings and Ly stems for smooth actuation, making it a preferred choice for those who appreciate subtlety in auditory feedback and finesse in performance. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile is a tactile switch known for its smoothness and snappy tactile bump, while maintaining a neutral sound signature. Both switches have their strengths and characteristics, catering to different preferences. 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
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
N/A
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
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Kiki Red and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile each have unique characteristics in their housing materials that impact the sound profile of the switches. The Kiki Red features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile uses a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The difference in sound profiles is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate compared to POM, leading to a more resonant and clear sound in the WS Light Tactile.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Kiki Red and the WS Light Tactile also differ in their materials. The Kiki Red's POM bottom housing yields a deeper and more muted sound, similar to its top housing. Conversely, the WS Light Tactile utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a fuller and rounder sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. The contrast between the POM and nylon materials in the bottom housing of these switches results in distinct typing experiences with varying sound characteristics.
Although the top and bottom housings of the Kiki Red and the WS Light Tactile offer different sound profiles, the impact of each housing material on the overall typing experience is evident. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key. Whether it's the subtle depth of POM in the Kiki Red or the sharper clarity of polycarbonate in the WS Light Tactile, the housing materials ultimately shape the unique sound profiles and tactile feedback of these switches.
Weight
The Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch both have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. The Kiki Red has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the WS Light Tactile has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches provide a smooth typing experience with minimal resistance, allowing for comfortable typing over extended periods. However, for those who prefer a slightly heavier feel when typing, the WS Light Tactile may be the better option due to its slightly higher actuation force. Overall, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of force requirements, making them equally suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Bsun Kiki Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch. The Kiki Red will provide a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for faster actuation. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Kiki Red has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Kiki Red for $3.83.
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 Bsun Kiki Red linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound that provides a crisp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch produces a neutral sound profile that is moderate and suitable for most users. Both switches offer different sound qualities, catering to individuals who prefer either a distinctive clacky sound or a more subdued and versatile typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Kiki Red switch is praised for its creamy, frictionless, and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and refined feel with reduced friction and effortless key travel. Additionally, it provides a medium-light weighting that enhances the tactile feedback without being too heavy. Meanwhile, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch is described as stepped and easy-to-press, providing a gentle resistance and light actuation force for a comfortable typing experience. Both switches offer unique tactile sensations, with the Kiki Red focusing on smoothness and the WS Light Tactile emphasizing easy and effortless key presses.
In conclusion, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch present distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Kiki Red excels in providing a clacky and finely-tuned typing experience with a smooth and creamy feel, while the WS Light Tactile offers a neutral sound profile and easy-to-press keys with a stepped tactile bump. Depending on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer quality and performance, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a finely-tuned typing experience with a balance of high-pitched clackiness and smooth actuation, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a unique sound signature and a medium-light weighting that caters to enthusiasts who appreciate subtlety in auditory feedback and performance finesse. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a snappy tactile bump and a neutral sound profile, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch would be more suitable for you. These switches maintain smoothness while providing a perceptible bump during actuation, making them a versatile option for both beginners and advanced users. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
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