KTT Lightning vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the KTT Lightning and the Wuque Studio WS Onion. The KTT Lightning switches are renowned for their speed, making them ideal for those moments when split-second decisions can determine victory or defeat. Typing on these switches offers a sleek feel with a noticeable clack sound. On the other hand, the WS Onion switches boast a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, resulting in an exceptionally smooth keystroke experience. These switches provide a satisfyingly crisp and responsive feel, accompanied by a neutral sound profile. However, let's delve deeper into the characteristics of these switches to help you make the best choice for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
WS CL635 Gold Plated Stainless Spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the KTT Lightning and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches are both made of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. This means that both switches will provide similar results in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. It also allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it visually appealing. Similarly, nylon bottom housing in both switches elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
However, while the materials used in the top and bottom housings are the same, the Lightning and WS Onion switches may still differ in terms of typing experience. Since the bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, the nylon bottom housing in the Lightning switch may provide a slightly different tactile feedback compared to the WS Onion switch. Similarly, the top housing, which has more impact when releasing a key, may exhibit subtle differences between the switches. Overall, the differences may be minimal, but they can still influence the overall typing experience and feel of the switches.
In conclusion, the KTT Lightning and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches share similar housing materials, with both featuring polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and crisper sound profile and nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound. While the housing materials are the same, there may still be slight variations in typing experience due to the different impact of the top and bottom housings. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality materials that contribute to an enhanced typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, there are notable differences. The actuation force of the Lightning switch is 43 grams, while the WS Onion's actuation force remains unknown. However, both switches have a bottom out force, with the Lightning at 50 grams and the WS Onion at 63.5 grams.
In terms of weight, the Lightning switch is lighter compared to the WS Onion switch. This lighter weight may appeal to individuals who prefer a more effortless typing experience, enabling them to type for longer periods without experiencing fatigue. This feature makes the Lightning ideal for work-related tasks or extended gaming sessions.
On the other hand, the WS Onion switch offers a medium-heavy typing experience with its higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams. For users who desire a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the WS Onion switch would be the preferable choice.
While the actuation force of the WS Onion switch remains unknown, it is worth noting that with the Lightning switch's actuation force of 43 grams, users can expect relatively similar results in terms of triggering a keystroke.
Ultimately, the lightweight aspect of the Lightning switch suits those seeking prolonged typing sessions, while the WS Onion switch provides a heavier and more substantial typing experience for individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, it is clear that they differ in their distance traveled from the top to the bottom. The Lightning has a travel distance of 3 mm, while the WS Onion has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Lightning falls into the category of shorter travel distances, which is preferred by gamers for faster response times. On the other hand, the WS Onion with its longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. Both options have their advantages depending on individual preferences, with the Lightning providing a more responsive experience and the WS Onion offering a greater sense of depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Wuque Studio WS Onion has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Onion for $5.53.
The KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41 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, the KTT Lightning linear switch offers a clacky sound profile. These switches produce a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving off a crisp, bright, and percussive tone. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch offers a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or if you plan to use them at home or work. 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. However, if you prefer a sharper, more distinctive sound, the KTT Lightning switch would be a better choice. If you prefer a more neutral sound that is not too loud or distinctive, the WS Onion switch would be a good option.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Lightning linear switch offers a subtle typing experience. These switches have a gentle resistance that is not too light but still provides a comfortable typing feel. They also have a polished finish, resulting in smooth and refined key travel with reduced friction. The WS Onion linear switch, on the other hand, offers a buttery smooth keystroke experience. These switches provide a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Additionally, like the Lightning switch, they also have a polished finish for smooth key travel with reduced friction. Overall, both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, but the Lightning switch provides a slightly more subtle feel while the WS Onion switch delivers a buttery smooth experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Lightning linear switch is known for its approachable "speed" and is perfect for situations where milliseconds can determine success or failure. It offers a clacky sound profile and a subtle typing feel. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, providing a buttery smooth keystroke feel and a neutral sound profile. While they have some differences in sound and feel, both switches offer desirable qualities that make them suitable for various preferences and purposes. Whether you choose the Lightning or the WS Onion, you can expect similar levels of satisfaction and enjoy a quality typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your specific preferences and needs. If you value speed and responsiveness, the Lightning switch is an excellent choice. With its light bottom out force and clacky sound profile, it is perfect for situations where milliseconds can make a difference, such as gaming. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and satisfying typing experience, the WS Onion switch is an ideal option. Its medium-heavy bottom out force and buttery smooth keystroke feel offer a crisp and responsive typing feel. Additionally, the neutral sound profile ensures suitability for various settings, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether at home or work. Whether you prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound or a neutral and polished feel, both switches have unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Therefore, consider your typing style, usage scenarios, and sound preferences to determine which switch aligns better with your needs. In the end, the choice between the KTT Lightning and Wuque Studio WS Onion switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and requirements.
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