KTT Lightning vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options on the market are the KTT Lightning, a linear switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile, a tactile switch. The KTT Lightnings are highly regarded for their speed, making them the perfect choice for gamers or anyone who needs to make split-second decisions. With a slick type feel and a clacky sound profile, these switches are sure to give you an immersive and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches offer a different kind of satisfaction. With a profound and pronounced tactile bump, each keystroke provides a satisfying resistance, making typing an engaging journey. The 70g tactile force adds to the tactile experience, while Wuque Studios' nylon housings contribute to a "thocky" resonance, resulting in a captivating sound profile. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Lightning and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Lightning features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile utilizes a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Overall, while the Lightning's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper sound, the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound.
Another difference lies in the bottom housings of the two switches. Both the Lightning and the WS Heavy Tactile use nylon for their bottom housings, which leads to similar sound profiles. The softer and more sound-absorbent nature of nylon contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing on these switches. As a result, the bottom housings of both switches create a similar dull and round sound profile. Thus, whether using the Lightning or the WS Heavy Tactile, users can expect to experience a deep and resonant sound when pressing down on the keys.
It is important to note that the characteristics of the top and bottom housings play different roles in the overall sound of a switch. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Lightning's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper sound upon key release, the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound in the same situation. Both switches provide distinct sound experiences due to the contrasting qualities of their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, there are both similarities and differences to consider. Starting with the actuation force, the Lightning requires a relatively light 43 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the actuation force of the WS Heavy Tactile switch is unknown, which means we cannot determine whether it is lighter or heavier than the Lightning. Moving on to the bottom out force, the Lightning switch requires 50 grams of force to press all the way down, while the WS Heavy Tactile switch has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 45 grams.
In terms of weight, the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of both switches make them suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience. This can be beneficial for those who need to type for extended periods, such as during work or long gaming sessions. However, for those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, a heavier actuation and bottom out force would be more suitable. In this aspect, the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a slightly heavier bottom out force compared to the Lightning switch.
In conclusion, the Lightning switch has a lighter actuation force and a slightly heavier bottom out force compared to the WS Heavy Tactile switch. However, since the actuation force of the WS Heavy Tactile switch is unknown, it is difficult to fully compare the two switches. Ultimately, individuals seeking a lighter typing experience for longer periods may prefer the Lightning switch, while those desiring a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the WS Heavy Tactile switch based on its slightly heavier bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, there is a slight difference between the two. The Lightning has a travel distance of 3 mm, while the WS Heavy Tactile has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.2 mm. Despite this small disparity, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular. Gamers, in particular, tend to favor shorter travel distances for their faster response times. Therefore, if you prioritize quick responsiveness, opting for the Lightning with its slightly shorter travel distance could be a suitable choice. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial and deeper keystroke experience might find the WS Heavy Tactile's longer travel distance to be more appealing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences regarding the depth and responsiveness of your typing experience.
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 Heavy Tactile comes in at $3.50.
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 KTT Lightning and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches are described as clacky, offering a sharp and snappy sound profile. They are categorized as high-pitched switches, producing a crisp and bright sound when pressed. The Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches are also described as resonant, providing a higher-pitched sound profile for an immersive auditory experience. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, both switches will deliver similar results in terms of sound with their clacky and high-pitched characteristics.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Lightning switches are described as subtle, offering a gentle resistance that is not too light but still maintains a light typing feel. They are also referred to as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches are described as accented, providing a prominent amount of tactility that is not overwhelming nor subtle. They are also categorized as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation and giving the keys a lively feel with rebound when pressed. The WS Heavy Tactile switches are also described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation. Additionally, they are characterized as sharp tactile switches, with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. The KTT Lightning switches and Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches offer different tactile experiences, with the Lightning switches providing a subtle and polished feel, while the WS Heavy Tactile switches offer a more accentuated and invigorating tactile experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Lightning switches are known for their approachable "speed" qualities, providing a slick type feel and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches offer a remarkable tactile experience with a pronounced tactile bump, satisfying resistance, and captivating sound profile. While both switches share similarities in their clacky and high-pitched sound profiles, the Lightning switches offer a more subtle and polished feel, while the WS Heavy Tactile switches provide a more accentuated and invigorating tactile experience. When choosing between the two, it ultimately depends on the user's preference for typing experience and sound feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a light and speedy typing experience, the KTT Lightning linear switch would be an excellent choice. These switches are perfect for situations where every millisecond counts, such as in gaming or fast-paced typing scenarios. With a bottom out force of 50 grams, they provide a light and effortless keystroke. In terms of sound, the Lightning switch offers a clacky and high-pitched profile, producing a crisp and sharp sound when pressed. As for the feel, the Lightning switch is described as subtle and polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more immersive and tactile typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch would be the way to go. These switches feature a profound and pronounced tactile bump, with a tactile force of 70 grams, giving each keystroke a satisfying resistance. The WS Heavy Tactile switch also offers a captivating sound profile, described as clacky and resonant, providing a clean and sharp auditory feedback. In terms of feel, the WS Heavy Tactile switch is described as accented, bouncy, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, offering a range of tactile experiences.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. Whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness or enjoy a more tactile and immersive typing experience, both switches have their own unique advantages. Consider your typing style, desired sound profile, and preferred level of feedback when making your decision.
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