KTT Laurel vs. Wuque Studio WS Dash
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Laurel and the Wuque Studio WS Dash stand out as two excellent yet contrasting choices. The KTT Laurel is celebrated for its medium-light linear feel, designed with a full POM housing that ensures both responsiveness and comfort during extended typing sessions. Its short travel distance combined with a long pole offers a snappy performance complemented by a low-pitched sound profile, making it a suitable option for those who prefer a subtler auditory experience. On the other hand, the WS Dash, known for its captivating re-color of the Magnetic Jade, introduces a distinct Hall Effect design that delivers a bright and clacky sound signature. The silky smooth keystroke of the WS Dash creates an engaging tactile experience that appeals to gamers and typists seeking feedback with every press. Choosing between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference: whether you favor the understated responsiveness of the KTT Laurel or the vibrant clackiness of the WS Dash. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22m spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Laurel and the Wuque Studio WS Dash showcase distinct sound profiles influenced primarily by their housing materials. The KTT Laurel features a top housing made of POM (Polyoxymethylene), which is known for producing a sound that is richer and slightly deeper, leaning towards a muted audio experience. In contrast, the WS Dash uses a polycarbonate top housing, which generates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This material enhances the clarity and resonance of the typing sound, making it more pronounced, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. Consequently, while both switches aim to provide unique auditory experiences, the Laurel offers a warmer, more subdued sound versus the Dash's bright and vibrant tones.
Examining the bottom housings further underscores their differences: the KTT Laurel incorporates a POM bottom housing, which complements the top housing's characteristics by maintaining a deeper and muted sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Dash opts for a nylon bottom housing, which is noted for its ability to absorb sound, creating an overall fuller and rounder typing experience. This distinction in fabrics means that, while both switches provide engaging tactile feedback, their acoustic results will vary greatly. Specifically, the KTT Laurel will produce a more consistent sound across key presses, while the WS Dash will deliver a more dynamic auditory effect due to nylon’s sound-dampening qualities.
Ultimately, while the KTT Laurel and Wuque Studio WS Dash utilize different materials for both their top and bottom housings, creating a contrast in sound profiles, they also share a common goal of delivering satisfying typing experiences. The Laurel's combination of POM for both parts creates a cohesive sound that is deeper and muted, aimed at individuals preferring a more subdued auditory feedback. Conversely, the combination found in the WS Dash, with polycarbonate on top and nylon below, yields a more complex sound with clarity and fullness. Users seeking particular auditory results from their key switches can find a rich array of choices in these two models, each tailored to specific preferences and aesthetic presentations.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to varying user preferences. The KTT Laurel features an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a light switch that's ideal for longer typing sessions or extended gaming due to its reduced resistance. In contrast, the WS Dash has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams, which further enhances its suitability for quick, effortless typing, while its bottom out force of 55 grams is slightly heavier than that of the Laurel. This means that while both switches are designed for lighter touch preferences, the WS Dash offers a smoother actuation but requires more force when bottomed out, providing a more pronounced feedback sensation. Ultimately, users looking for a softer feel will find the WS Dash appealing, while those who enjoy a subtle weight in their keystrokes might gravitate toward the KTT Laurel.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch feature an identical travel distance of 3.5 mm. This similarity in travel distance means that users can expect a comparable feel and performance when pressing down on either switch, resulting in a consistent typing experience. Since both switches have the same travel distance, they can deliver similar tactile feedback and responsiveness, making them equally effective for various typing and gaming purposes. Therefore, if you're deciding between the two, the travel distance itself will not be a distinguishing factor.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
The Wuque Studio WS Dash has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Dash for $7.49.
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 considering the sound profiles of the KTT Laurel and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches, there is a notable contrast. The Laurel produces a subtly low-pitched sound, characterized by its mellow and bass-heavy tone. This quality can create a more subdued auditory experience, which some users may find soothing during prolonged typing sessions. In contrast, the WS Dash is distinctly clacky, offering a bright and crisp auditory feedback that is sharp and percussive. This sound can add an element of excitement to the typing experience, appealing to users who enjoy a more engaging and lively keypress. Overall, the sound produced by these switches lends itself to different typing environments and preferences, with the Laurel being more discreet and the WS Dash providing a more dynamic soundscape.
When it comes to the feel of each switch, the Laurel is known for its snappy responsiveness, attributed to its design with longer springs that promote an animated typing experience. This quality makes it particularly satisfying for typists who enjoy tactile feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the WS Dash is celebrated for its polished and silky feel, indicating a smooth and refined keystroke experience. With reduced friction due to superior materials or factory lubrication, this switch delivers an exceptionally smooth typing sensation that minimizes resistance. As a result, the feel of these switches diverges significantly: the Laurel prioritizes responsiveness, while the WS Dash focuses on a premium, effortless interaction.
In summary, both the KTT Laurel and Wuque Studio WS Dash switches possess unique attributes that cater to different user preferences. The Laurel offers a low-pitched, subdued sound and a snappy, responsive feel, making it an excellent choice for those who value comfort and efficient typing. Conversely, the WS Dash brings a bright, clacky sound paired with a polished, silky keystroke, appealing to those who appreciate a more vibrant auditory experience and smooth typing action. Ultimately, the ideal choice between these switches will depend on the individual’s priorities regarding sound and feel, as each excels in its respective areas.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prefer a lighter keystroke with a 50-gram bottom-out force that offers a snappy and responsive feel, the KTT Laurel is an excellent option. Its low-pitched sound profile provides a more subdued auditory experience, making it ideal for quieter environments or prolonged typing sessions, where comfort is key. On the other hand, if you find enjoyment in a keyboard that provides more auditory feedback with a clacky, bright sound and a slightly firmer 55-gram bottom-out force, the WS Dash will likely be more satisfying for you. This switch's polished and silky feel enhances the typing experience, making each keystroke enjoyable and refined. Ultimately, consider your environment and what aspects of a switch you value most—whether it's a softer sound and feel with the KTT Laurel or a more responsive and auditory experience with the WS Dash—and choose accordingly.
Mentioned in this article
