Everglide Lightning Silver V3 vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, it's clear that they offer distinct typing experiences. The Lightning Silver V3 is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, providing a smooth and seamless typing experience with added RGB illumination thanks to its light diffuser. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch stands out for its 70g bump, immersive resistance, and "thocky" sound, delivering a profound tactile experience that makes typing engaging and satisfying. Each switch offers unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
48g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile both utilize different housing materials for their top and bottom parts. The Lightning Silver V3 features a polycarbonate top housing, which gives it a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for those looking for a crisper typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a more rounded typing feel. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Lightning Silver V3 once again utilizes polycarbonate for a clear and resonant sound profile. This material's stiffness contributes to a sharper sound when keys are pressed, enhancing the overall typing experience. Conversely, the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile when keys are pressed. This difference in bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel of each switch, providing users with unique tactile feedback based on their preferences.
Overall, while the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile both offer distinct sound profiles and typing experiences due to their housing materials, they ultimately cater to different preferences. The polycarbonate top and bottom housings of the Lightning Silver V3 create a crisp and clear typing sensation, perfect for those who prefer a sharper sound profile. Conversely, the nylon top and bottom housings of the WS Heavy Tactile deliver a deeper and fuller typing experience, ideal for those seeking a rounder sound profile. By understanding the impact of different housing materials on switch performance, users can make an informed decision based on their preferred sound and typing feel.
Weight
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Lightning Silver V3 requires 60 grams, while the WS Heavy Tactile needs 70 grams, making it the heavier option. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, providing a balance between typing comfort and feedback. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Lightning Silver V3, while individuals seeking a more substantial push feel may opt for the WS Heavy Tactile for a more pronounced typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. However, the Lightning Silver V3 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the WS Heavy Tactile. If you prefer a switch with a bit more depth to the key press, the Lightning Silver V3 may be the better option for you. In contrast, if you prefer a shallower key press for quicker responses, the WS Heavy Tactile would be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, but the slight variation may affect the feel of the key press for individual preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
The Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile comes in at $3.50 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
When it comes to sound, both the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches are described as clacky and high-pitched, offering sharp and crisp sounds when pressed. The Lightning Silver V3 is particularly known for its light diffuser enhancing RGB illumination, adding a vibrant touch to the typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switches boast a resonant sound profile, providing an immersive auditory experience. Overall, if you enjoy a sharp and percussive sound with either of these switches, you can expect similar results.
In terms of feel, the Lightning Silver V3 is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. Meanwhile, the WS Heavy Tactile switches are characterized by being accented, bouncy, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, providing a pronounced tactile feedback with moderate to firm actuation force and a lively feel. If you prefer a smooth and seamless typing experience, the Lightning Silver V3 would be a great choice. However, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a prominent amount of tactility and a snappy, reactive feel, the WS Heavy Tactile switches would be more suitable for you.
In conclusion, both the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Lightning Silver V3 provides a clacky, high-pitched sound and a silky smooth typing experience, the WS Heavy Tactile switches deliver a profound tactile experience with a variety of tactile sensations. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force and enjoy a clacky, high-pitched sound signature along with a silky typing experience, then the Lightning Silver V3 may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, profound tactile feedback, and a "thocky" sound profile, then the WS Heavy Tactile would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing style and sound preference. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing experience and enjoy a satisfying and immersive keyboard setup based on your preferences.
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