KTT Lightning vs. Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the KTT Lightning and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear. Both of these switches fall under the linear category, offering a smooth typing experience with no tactile bump. The KTT Lightnings are highly regarded as "speed" switches, ideal for competitive gaming where split-second decisions can be the difference between victory and defeat. With a slick type feel and a clacky sound profile, these switches deliver a satisfyingly responsive keyboarding experience. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear linear switches provide a smooth, high-pitched typing experience. Designed with a transparent polycarbonate top housing and UHMWPE bottom housing, these switches allow for extensive customization of RGB lighting. Additionally, the lightly lubed POM stem ensures minimal friction, resulting in buttery and polished keystrokes. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Double-staged stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Lightning and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice offers several benefits, including a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those seeking a precise and distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to be effectively showcased. Therefore, both switches will provide similar results in terms of sound and lighting performance.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the Lightning features nylon while the WS Aurora Clear utilizes UHWMPE. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, UHWMPE is a newer material that produces a very bright sound signature, offering resonant clacks while typing. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, so users can expect a different tactile experience between the two switches.
It's worth noting that if a switch has different materials for its top and bottom housings, the qualities attributed to each material will be divided. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. This distinction should be taken into account when considering the overall sound profile and typing sensation of the KTT Lightning and the WS Aurora Clear.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Lightning switch has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it lighter in comparison. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear switch has an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it slightly heavier.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer lighter switches as it allows them to type for longer periods of time, which is ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. These individuals would find the Lightning switch favorable due to its lighter actuation and bottom out forces.
However, there are those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. They might choose switches with heavier forces to fulfill their preference. In this case, the WS Aurora Clear switch would be more suitable as it has a medium-heavy actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Lightning switch.
It is important to note that while the Lightening switch has a lighter actuation and bottom out force, and the WS Aurora Clear has a heavier force, both switches still offer a satisfactory typing experience. Individuals seeking similar results can choose either switch based on their personal preference for lighter or heavier key presses.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, it is clear that they have different distances. The Lightning has a travel distance of 3 mm, while the WS Aurora Clear has a longer distance of 3.8 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, the Lightning falls on the more shallow side at 3 mm, while the WS Aurora Clear is slightly closer to the average of 4 mm.
These differences in travel distance can have an impact on user preference and typing experience. Gamers, for example, often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. In this case, the Lightning switch with its shorter travel distance may be the preferred option. However, for those who value a more substantial and satisfying key press, the WS Aurora Clear's longer travel distance may be more appealing.
It is important to note that while the travel distances of the Lightning and WS Aurora Clear differ, they both fall within the range of what is considered desirable for mechanical switches. Therefore, regardless of the specific distance, both switches should provide a similar overall experience in terms of the distance you feel when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Lightning and the WS Aurora Clear should be based on personal preference and individual typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear comes in at $8.00.
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 KTT Lightning switch is well-known for its clacky sound profile. This means that when pressed, it produces a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. Additionally, it may have a slight chirpy aspect to its sound, giving it a unique acoustic signature. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear switch is also described as high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. If you prefer a keyboard switch with a richer and bassier sound profile, the WS Aurora Clear may not be the best choice. However, both switches offer a similar high-pitched sound, ensuring that you will get comparable results in terms of audio feedback.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Lightning switch offers a subtle resistance that is not too feather-light but still maintains a light typing feel. This makes it suitable for typing in shared spaces as it does not produce a resonant sound signature. Additionally, the Lightning switch can be considered polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This is achieved through the use of high-quality materials and possibly factory lubing, reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear switch is described as buttery, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It offers a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Similar to the Lightning switch, the WS Aurora Clear switch is also considered polished, guaranteeing reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches provide a satisfying feel, with the WS Aurora Clear offering a more buttery typing experience and the KTT Lightning offering a slightly lighter resistance.
Taking all the available information into account, the KTT Lightning switch is a great option for those who value speed and responsiveness, as it is specifically designed for situations where milliseconds can determine success or failure. It offers a slick typing feel with a clacky sound profile, making it suitable for fast-paced gaming or typing. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear switch is an excellent choice for those who prioritize a smooth and high-pitched typing experience. It allows for maximum RGB lighting customization due to its transparent polycarbonate top housing and UHMWPE bottom housing. With its lightly lubed POM stem, it ensures minimal friction and a satisfyingly smooth keystroke. While the switches differ slightly in their subjective qualities, they both deliver satisfactory results in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness in your typing or gaming experience, the KTT Lightning linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. With a light bottom out force of 50 grams and a slick typing feel, these switches are designed to maximize your reaction time and minimize any delay. Additionally, the clacky sound profile of the Lightning adds an extra element of satisfaction to your typing experience. On the other hand, if you value a smooth and high-pitched typing experience with maximum RGB lighting customization, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch would be the ideal option. With a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, these switches offer a medium-heavy feel that many users find comfortable. Furthermore, the transparent polycarbonate top housing and UHMWPE bottom housing of the WS Aurora Clear allow for stunning RGB lighting effects, while the lightly lubed POM stem ensures a satisfyingly smooth keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences and priorities in terms of typing feel, sound profile, and customization options.
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