KTT Laurel vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Laurel linear switch to the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Laurel's smooth and responsive medium-light linear action, along with its low-pitched sound profile, provides a comfortable typing experience suitable for those who prefer a quieter switch. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch stands out for its snappy and distinct tactile bump, paired with a neutral sound signature, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a more tactile typing feel. While these general pointers may help in choosing between the two switches, delving deeper into their specific characteristics will ultimately aid in determining the best switch for individual 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Laurel and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile, it is evident that both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. The Laurel's POM top and bottom housings create a deeper and more muted sound, while the WS Light Tactile's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Laurel's POM bottom housing. Overall, the housing materials of both switches contribute significantly to the overall sound profile and typing experience.
One notable difference between the two switches lies in the materials used for the top housing. While the Laurel utilizes POM for its top housing, which creates a unique sound profile on the deeper side, the WS Light Tactile opts for polycarbonate, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing of the WS Light Tactile is translucent, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the Laurel's POM top housing does not offer the same level of translucency. This contrast highlights how different housing materials can impact not only the sound profile but also the aesthetic features of a switch.
Despite their differences, both the KTT Laurel and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile demonstrate the importance of housing materials in achieving specific sound profiles and typing experiences. The use of POM in the Laurel's top and bottom housings creates a pleasing and unique sound, whereas the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the WS Light Tactile results in a sharper, crisper sound with a deeper and fuller bottom-out feel. Ultimately, whether seeking a deeper and muted sound or a sharper and crisper sound, both switches offer distinct characteristics based on their housing materials that cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
Comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, both switches have a similar bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a consistent feel when fully pressed. However, the Laurel switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the WS Light Tactile switch's 45 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Laurel switch may appeal to users who prefer a softer touch for longer typing sessions, while the WS Light Tactile switch's slightly heavier actuation force might be favored by those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, but the slight difference in actuation force may be a deciding factor for users seeking a specific typing feel.
Travel distance
The KTT Laurel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Laurel's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the WS Light Tactile's longer travel distance may provide a more fulfilling typing experience with its heartier depth. Both switches offer different tactile experiences due to their varying travel distances, so choosing between the two would depend on personal preference for either a shorter or longer key press. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you prioritize speed or depth in your typing experience.
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 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Laurel linear switch offers a subtly low-pitched profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch boasts a neutral sound signature, suitable for various purposes and preferences. The choice between these switches may come down to personal preference, as the Laurel switch offers a distinct low-pitched sound, while the WS Light Tactile switch provides a more versatile and neutral sound profile.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Laurel linear switch is described as snappy, offering a super responsive typing experience due to its longer or dual-staged springs. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch features a stepped feel, which provides a tactile bump in two stages, offering a more mild and nuanced typing experience. Additionally, the WS Light Tactile switch is noted for being easy to press, requiring minimal force to activate, making it suitable for reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the Laurel and the WS Light Tactile switch comes down to personal preference for either a snappy and responsive typing feel or a more nuanced and gentle typing experience.
In conclusion, when comparing the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, it is important to consider the subjective qualities of sound and feel. The Laurel switch offers a low-pitched sound profile and a snappy typing feel, while the WS Light Tactile switch features a neutral sound signature and a stepped, easy-to-press typing feel. Both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles, so choosing between them will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and can deliver satisfying results based on the user's preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium-light linear switch with a smooth and responsive typing experience, along with a subtly low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Laurel switch may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a neutral sound signature, a snappy and perceptible tactile bump, and an easy-to-press feel that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, then the WS Light Tactile switch is a great option to consider. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and overall typing experience.
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