Everglide Lightning Silver V3 vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ stand out as popular linear options, each with their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Lightning Silver V3, produced by Haimu, is celebrated for its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, which adds an engaging auditory experience to typing while providing a silky, seamless feel. A standout feature of this switch is its light diffuser, enhancing RGB illumination and making it an attractive choice for those who prioritize aesthetics in their keyboard setup. On the other hand, the WS POM+ is crafted entirely from POM material, delivering a deep, satisfying "thock" sound and a buttery-smooth keystroke—attributes that make it ideal for users seeking a more robust auditory feedback and a premium typing feel. While both switches offer distinct advantages, the choice ultimately depends on whether you lean towards a more vibrant, high-pitched experience or a deeper, more resonant sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
48g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The comparison between the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ showcases notable differences in their housing materials, leading to distinct sound profiles and user experiences. The Lightning Silver V3 features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is largely due to polycarbonate's rigidity, which enhances resonance and clarity in sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an attractive choice for RGB lighting, accentuating the visual aesthetic of the keyboard. In contrast, the WS POM+ employs a POM (Polyoxymethylene) material for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a sound profile that is deeper and inherently more muted than that of the Lightning Silver V3.
In terms of acoustics, the division of labor between the top and bottom housings significantly influences the sound and feel produced during keystrokes. The Lightning Silver V3, with its polycarbonate construction, will provide a bright and articulate sound during key releases, while the sharper impact of the bottom housing's material will be more pronounced when bottoming out. This duality allows users of the Lightning Silver V3 to experience a crisp, resonant key press and release, enhancing gaming and typing experiences. Conversely, the WS POM+ prioritizes a more cohesive sound with a unique muted quality, allowing for a sumptuous feel in both aspects of key actuation. The deeper timbre of the POM housing can soften the auditory feedback, catering to those who prefer a less aggressive sound.
Despite these differences, both designs share a level of craftsmanship that achieves satisfying auditory and tactile feedback, albeit through differing methods. Enthusiasts might find that the overall sound experience, while distinct in character, can lead to agreeable results in their respective applications. Users gravitating towards a more vibrant sound with potential RGB aesthetics may lean toward the Lightning Silver V3, whereas those fond of a richer, more subdued auditory palette may find solace in the WS POM+. In summary, households of polycarbonate versus POM reveal a contrasting journey through sound and sensation, yet both embody an engaging keyboard experience tailored to user preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Lightning Silver V3 features an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium category. In contrast, the WS POM+ has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. As a result, the WS POM+ is the lighter option, making it a more comfortable choice for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming. Meanwhile, the heavier Lightning Silver V3 offers a more substantial feel, appealing to users who prefer a stronger push sensation in their typing experience. Both switches provide a distinct tactile feedback, yet users can anticipate a more relaxed typing experience with the WS POM+ due to its lighter actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Lightning Silver V3 offers a shorter travel distance compared to the WS POM+, making it potentially more suitable for gamers seeking rapid response times. On the other hand, the WS POM+ provides a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing the keys. Both switches fall into the trend of shorter travel distances, yet the Everglide option is designed for quicker actuation, whereas the Wuque Studio switch may deliver a more pronounced keystroke experience. Ultimately, your choice may depend on your personal preference for responsiveness versus depth in keystroke feel.
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 POM+ comes in at $3.90 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
The sound of the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 is characterized by its clacky and high-pitched tones, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This distinctive sound signature resonates well with those who appreciate a crisp, bright auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ is noted for its deep and satisfying "thock" sound, which is richer and more resonant compared to the Lightning Silver V3. If you prefer a more bassy sound profile, the WS POM+ would likely be more appealing, as the two switches diverge significantly in their auditory qualities.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Lightning Silver V3 excels with its silky smooth keystrokes that provide an exceptionally pleasant typing experience. This smoothness minimizes resistance during key presses and releases, making it easier to type quickly and comfortably. Unfortunately, there is little information available regarding the feel of the WS POM+, leaving its tactile characteristics unknown. However, it's common for POM switches to offer a satisfying typing experience, but without specific descriptors, a direct comparison cannot be made.
Overall, both the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switches present unique sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. If you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched auditory feedback with a silky typing feel, the Lightning Silver V3 is an excellent choice. Conversely, if you prefer a deeper "thock" sound, the WS POM+ may satisfy your auditory needs. Without more detailed information on the WS POM+'s feel, one may have to rely on the general reputation of POM switches for a comparable typing experience. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the overall aesthetic you want to achieve with your keyboard. If you enjoy a lively typing experience characterized by a clacky and high-pitched sound, the Lightning Silver V3 may be your go-to option. Its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams provides a satisfying tactile feedback that is well-suited for fast-paced typing or gaming, while the light diffuser enhances the RGB effects, making it a great choice if you want a visually striking setup. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper, more satisfying "thock" sound and a softer touch with a medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams, the WS POM+ would be an excellent choice. This switch offers an incredibly smooth keystroke that can provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, making it perfect for long hours of work or casual typing. Ultimately, consider what factors are most important to you—whether it be sound, feel, or visual appeal—and select the switch that best aligns with your preferences.
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