TKC Kiwi vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TKC Kiwi and the Wuque Studio WS Onion are two popular options worth considering. The Kiwi switches are tactile switches that provide a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, enhancing the typing experience. These switches also have a snappy sound profile, delivering an immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Onion switches are linear switches known for their buttery smooth keystroke feel. With a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, these switches offer a satisfyingly smooth typing experience. Additionally, the WS Onion switches provide a crisp and responsive feel with a neutral sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can make an informed decision about the best switch for your specific needs and preferences.

By the numbers

Housing materials

The housing materials of the TKC Kiwi and the Wuque Studio WS Onion differ in terms of their composition and the resulting sound profile. The Kiwi features a UHWMPE top housing, which is a newer material known for its bright sound signature. When typing on switches with this type of housing, users can expect resonant clacks, providing a satisfying auditory experience. In contrast, the WS Onion utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of the polycarbonate material contributes to a clear and resonant sound. While both materials offer resonant sounds, the Kiwi's UHWMPE housing may produce a brighter sound compared to the WS Onion's polycarbonate housing.

Moving on to the bottom housing, the Kiwi employs UHWMPE, similar to its top housing. This choice results in a very bright sound signature, generating resonant clacks when typing on the switches. On the other hand, the WS Onion uses a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic housing material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, giving rise to a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, while the Kiwi's UHWMPE bottom housing contributes to a bright sound, the WS Onion's nylon bottom housing enhances the switch's depth and fullness of sound.

In terms of overall feel and sound, the split construction of the switches further differentiates their experiences. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become more apparent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Users can expect the bright sound and resonant clacks from the Kiwi's UHWMPE bottom housing and the deeper, fuller sound from the WS Onion's nylon bottom housing. Conversely, the impact on the sound when releasing a key is primarily determined by the top housing. Therefore, the bright sound signature of the Kiwi's UHWMPE top housing and the sharper, crisper sound profile of the WS Onion's polycarbonate top housing come into play when users lift their fingers off the key. Although the housing materials differ, both switches provide unique sound experiences depending on the stage of typing, with the Kiwi emphasizing brightness and resonant clacks, while the WS Onion focuses on sharper and crisper sounds.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, there are a few notable differences. The Kiwi has an actuation force of 43 grams, while the exact actuation force for the WS Onion is unavailable. However, both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force, with the Kiwi measuring at 67 grams and the WS Onion at 63.5 grams. This means that both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of bottoming out, providing a satisfying push feel.

Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as it can impact typing comfort and endurance. For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Kiwi with its 43-gram actuation force may be the preferred choice. Its lighter weight allows for longer typing sessions, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience and prefer a stronger push feel may opt for a switch with a heavier actuation force. While the exact force for the WS Onion is unknown, its bottom out force of 63.5 grams indicates a medium-heavy switch, offering a satisfying tactile feedback.

Overall, both the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch offer a similar typing experience in terms of bottom out force. The Kiwi is lighter in terms of actuation force, making it suitable for extended typing sessions, while the WS Onion provides a slightly heavier feel for those seeking a more substantial typing experience.

Travel distance

Both the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same 4 mm distance traveled. Thus, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results. Neither one is shorter or longer in this aspect.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The TKC Kiwi tactile switch is best known for its medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, providing a satisfyingly snappy sound profile. The switch is lightly factory lubed, resulting in a smooth and effortless typing experience. In terms of sound, the Kiwi is described as having a low-pitched tone, which is typically more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. Additionally, it is considered to have a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of purposes. The feel of the Kiwi switch is described as stepped, providing a mild tactile sensation with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. It is also considered accented, offering a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. Furthermore, the Kiwi switch is polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.

On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch is best known for its buttery smooth keystroke feel. It features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, which contribute to the switch's smooth and refined finish. In terms of sound, the WS Onion switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, similar to the Kiwi switch, making it suitable for various purposes. However, specific information regarding the pitch or tonality of its sound is unknown. The feel of the WS Onion switch is described as buttery, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Additionally, the switch is polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.

In conclusion, both the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch offer subjective qualities that enhance the typing experience. The Kiwi switch provides a snappy sound profile with a medium to medium-strong bump, while the WS Onion switch offers a buttery smooth keystroke feel. Both switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Although specific information on the WS Onion's sound profile is unknown, it shares a similar neutral profile with the Kiwi switch, making it suitable for various purposes. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance typing satisfaction, providing a subjective and enjoyable experience for users.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, the TKC Kiwi switches would be a great choice. These switches are known for their snappy sound profile and immersive typing experience. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, they provide a medium-heavy feel. Additionally, the Kiwi switches come lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box.

On the other hand, if you prefer linear switches with a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches would be a good fit. These switches offer a buttery smooth keystroke feel that is deeply satisfying. They provide a crisp and responsive feel, accompanied by a neutral sound profile. With a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, the WS Onion switches deliver a sleek typing experience. Like the Kiwi switches, the WS Onion switches are also polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Ultimately, the choice between the TKC Kiwi tactile switches and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switches depends on your personal preferences. Consider your desired typing experience, whether you prefer a tactile bump or a linear feel, and the sound profile you find most appealing. Both switches offer a high-quality typing experience, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences and requirements. In the end, you can't go wrong with either of these switches.

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