TKC Kiwi vs. Wuque Studio WS Jade
An in-depth look at the TKC Kiwi and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TKC Kiwi and the Wuque Studio WS Jade offer unique features and qualities for different typing experiences. The Kiwi is a tactile switch known for its medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, providing a satisfyingly snappy sound profile and a smooth typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, the WS Jade is a linear switch distinguished by its metallic insert in the stem base, creating a bright metallic and resonant sound profile with a creamy and smooth typing experience. While the Kiwi offers a tactile typing experience with a snappy feel, the WS Jade provides a unique sound profile and smooth typing experience. 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
43g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UPE
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The TKC Kiwi's housing materials, UHWMPE for the top and bottom housing, offer a bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Jade uses POM for both the top and bottom housing, creating a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials are newer for switch housings, they bring about different auditory experiences for users. The Kiwi's UHWMPE housing provides a brighter and more resonant typing sound, while the WS Jade's POM housing offers a deeper and softer sound when typing on switches with such housings.
In terms of sound production, the differences in housing materials between the TKC Kiwi and the Wuque Studio WS Jade are evident. The UHWMPE top housing of the Kiwi results in a vibrant and resonant sound when typing, whereas the POM top housing of the WS Jade offers a more subdued and deep sound profile. Similarly, the UHWMPE bottom housing of the Kiwi contributes to the overall bright sound signature, while the POM bottom housing of the WS Jade enhances the switch's muted sound quality. These variations in housing materials impact the sound produced when typing on switches equipped with either the Kiwi or WS Jade.
Despite their differing housing materials, the TKC Kiwi and Wuque Studio WS Jade ultimately provide unique typing experiences for users. While the Kiwi's UHWMPE top and bottom housing offer bright and resonant clacks, the WS Jade's POM housing creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. Both switches demonstrate how the choice of housing material can greatly influence the overall typing sound and feel. Despite the differences in sound characteristics, users can expect high-quality performance from both the TKC Kiwi and Wuque Studio WS Jade, albeit with distinct auditory qualities.
Weight
The actuation force of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch is 43 grams, slightly lighter than the 50 grams required for the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch. This means that the Kiwi will require less force to register keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Kiwi has a heavier 67 grams compared to the 60 grams of the WS Jade. This indicates that the Kiwi will provide a more substantial typing experience with a firmer push feel compared to the WS Jade. So, if you prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, the WS Jade may be the better option, while the Kiwi would be more suitable for those who prefer a heavier feel. Overall, both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TKC Kiwi tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Kiwi offers a slightly deeper keypress experience with its 4 mm travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial tactile feedback. On the other hand, the WS Jade's 3.6 mm travel distance provides a slightly shorter and quicker keypress, appealing to users who prioritize speed and responsiveness. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, but the slight difference may be noticeable to those who are sensitive to keypress depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Jade comes in at $4.30.
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 TKC Kiwi tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for a variety of typing environments. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch is known for its clacky, marbly, and resonant sound, delivering a sharp, bright, and clean sound profile that is highly immersive. Depending on your preference for sound, the choice between the two switches may vary, with the Kiwi providing a more subdued sound compared to the WS Jade's more lively and percussive tone.
In terms of feel, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch is described as stepped, accented, and polished, offering a tactile typing experience with two stages of feedback, a medium amount of tactility, and a smooth key travel. Conversely, the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch provides a silky and creamy typing experience, ensuring exceptional smoothness and minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Depending on whether you prefer a more defined tactile feedback or a smoother keystroke, your preference between the two switches may differ, with the Kiwi focusing on tactile satisfaction while the WS Jade prioritizes smoothness and ease of use.
Overall, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Kiwi excels in providing a satisfyingly snappy sound profile and a stepped, accented tactile feel, the WS Jade stands out for its bright, resonant sound and silky, creamy typing experience. Depending on whether you prioritize sound clarity and tactility or smoothness and ease of use, you can choose between these switches to enhance your typing experience accordingly.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press for an immersive typing experience, along with a satisfyingly snappy sound profile, the Kiwi would be a great choice for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, as well as a stepped, accented, and polished feel, the Kiwi would suit your preferences. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a bright metallic and resonant sound profile, along with a unique creamy and smooth typing experience, the WS Jade would be a better fit. If you prefer a switch with a clacky, marbly, and resonant sound profile, as well as a silky and creamy feel, the WS Jade would align more with your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and what qualities you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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