TKC Kiwi vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the TKC Kiwi and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two exceptional mechanical keyboard switches: the TKC Kiwi and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile. Both switches offer a tactile typing experience, but each brings its own unique qualities to the table. The Kiwi switches are known for their medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, enhancing your typing experience with a satisfyingly snappy sound profile. With a light factory lube, these switches offer a smooth and effortless typing experience straight out of the box. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switches by Wuque strike a delicate balance between tactility and noise reduction. Featuring ingenious stem railings with small cutouts, these switches minimize switch sound while delivering a satisfyingly crisp bottom-out and responsive return. What sets them apart is that they forgo the use of silicone dampeners, resulting in a typing experience that is free from the usual padded feel found in most silent switches. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the TKC Kiwi and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches offer distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall typing experience. The Kiwi features a UHWMPE top housing, which is a newer material known for its bright sound signature. When typing on Kiwi switches, you can expect resonant clacks and a lively sound when releasing a key. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile utilizes a nylon top housing that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound resulting in a rounder and duller sound when compared to the Kiwi's UHWMPE top housing.
In terms of bottom housing, the Kiwi incorporates UHWMPE, further enhancing its bright sound signature and providing resonant clacks upon typing. Conversely, the WS Silent Tactile employs a nylon bottom housing which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when bottoming out keys. The choice of plastic significantly impacts the sound profile, with nylon's softer composition absorbing more sound compared to UHWMPE's harder nature. As a result, the WS Silent Tactile offers a slightly muted bottom-out sound, generating a more rounded and dull sound profile.
Although the housing materials in both switches differ, they each have a unique impact on the typing experience. When using either switch, the bottom housing's qualities will influence the sound and feel during bottoming out, while the top housing will have a greater effect on the sound when releasing a key. While the TKC Kiwi and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile offer distinct sound profiles due to their housing materials, they both deliver an enhanced typing experience with their respective materials.
Weight
When comparing the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, their actuation and bottom out forces reveal some similarities and differences. The TKC Kiwi has an actuation force of 43 grams, while the WS Silent Tactile's actuation force is unavailable. This means that to trigger a keystroke on the TKC Kiwi, a slightly lighter force is required. However, the bottom out force of the TKC Kiwi is heavier at 67 grams compared to the WS Silent Tactile's 63.5 grams, making the TKC Kiwi provide a more substantial typing experience in terms of resistance when pressing all the way down. Both switches can be considered medium-heavy, but the TKC Kiwi is slightly lighter in terms of actuation force. For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, the TKC Kiwi may be more suitable, allowing them to type for more extended periods without fatigue. On the other hand, those seeking a stronger push feel may find the WS Silent Tactile switch more fitting.
Travel distance
The TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch have different travel distances. The Kiwi has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the WS Silent Tactile has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Kiwi has a longer travel distance compared to the WS Silent Tactile. The Kiwi's 4.0 mm travel distance is more traditional, providing a deeper feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile's shorter 3.5 mm travel distance is preferred by gamers who prioritize faster response times. While the WS Silent Tactile offers a more responsive experience, some individuals may find its shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with the Kiwi offering a deeper, more traditional experience and the WS Silent Tactile providing a shorter, more responsive feel.
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 Silent Tactile comes in at $4.20.
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 switch has a low-pitched sound profile. Low-pitched switches typically have a bass-heavy and mellow tone, creating a satisfyingly snappy sound. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch is described as having a more neutral sound profile. It produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches, thanks to its muted characteristics. While both switches have a neutral sound profile, the Kiwi offers a low-pitched tone while the WS Silent Tactile provides a more muted sound experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the TKC Kiwi switch offers a stepped and accented tactile experience. Stepped switches provide a more mild tactile feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel, while accented switches offer a medium amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Additionally, the Kiwi switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and provides a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch is also described as accented, providing a prominent amount of tactility that falls between being overwhelming and subtle. It is also invigorating, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. Additionally, it is considered mild, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Both switches offer a similar level of tactility, with the WS Silent Tactile offering a slightly more invigorating feel.
Taking all the available information into account, the TKC Kiwi switch is known for its low-pitched sound profile and stepped and accented tactile feel, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch offers a more muted sound profile and an accented and invigorating tactile experience. Both switches provide a medium level of tactility and have a neutral actuation force requirement. Overall, if you're looking for a switch with similar qualities, the WS Silent Tactile switch should provide a comparable experience, offering a quieter sound and invigorating feel. However, it's important to consider other factors such as personal preference, the keyboard itself, and the keycaps used, as these can also impact the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium to medium-strong tactile bump and a snappy sound profile that enhances your typing experience, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch is a great choice. These switches provide a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box, thanks to their light factory lube. On the other hand, if you value a delicate balance between tactility and noise reduction, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch would be more suitable. These switches feature ingenious stem railings and small cutouts that effectively minimize switch sound while still delivering a satisfyingly crisp bottom-out and responsive return. Unlike traditional silent switches, the WS Silent Tactile switches forgo the use of silicone dampeners to maintain a typing experience that feels natural and devoid of the usual padded feel found in most silent switches. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a switch with a snappy sound and polished feel (TKC Kiwi) or a switch with a quiet profile and invigorating feedback (WS Silent Tactile).
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