KTT Lightning vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Lightning and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow both offer unique features and qualities that make them desirable options. The KTT Lightnings are renowned for their "speed" switches, making them ideal for situations where milliseconds can determine victory or defeat. Typing on these switches provides a slick feel accompanied by a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Yellow linear switches created by Wuque Studio combine classic materials with cutting-edge engineering. Featuring a 22mm double-stage spring, these switches offer a delightful typing experience with a satisfying bounce. Enthusiasts particularly appreciate the familiar sound signature they produce. Additionally, these switches are designed to be lightweight, ensuring effortless keystrokes and a smooth, fluid typing experience. However, let's delve deeper into these switches to understand their nuances and determine which one suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Lightning and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow differ in terms of their housing materials. The Lightning features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the WS Yellow utilizes a nylon top housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. It creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Lightning and the WS Yellow use nylon material. Nylon is known for its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches. As a result, both the Lightning and WS Yellow share similar qualities in terms of the sound profile produced by their bottom housings.
When considering the overall impact on the sound and feel of the switches, the qualities of the housing materials are divided between the top and bottom housings. Pressing down on the switch will showcase the properties of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have more influence on the sound emitted when releasing a key. So, while the materials differ between the two switches, both the Lightning and the WS Yellow offer distinct characteristics based on their respective top and bottom housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, the actuation and bottom out forces play a crucial role. The actuation force of the KTT Lightning is 43 grams, while the WS Yellow's actuation force is unavailable. Both switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams and 53 grams respectively. In terms of weight, the Lightning is lighter due to its lower actuation force. This lighter actuation force allows for extended periods of typing, making it suitable for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the WS Yellow provides a slightly stronger push feel with its higher bottom out force, creating a more substantial typing experience. While we don't know the exact actuation force of the WS Yellow, it is safe to assume that it falls within a similar range as the Lightning, resulting in comparable results. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences, with some favoring a lighter feel and others opting for a heavier actuation force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Lightning has a travel distance of 3 mm, while the WS Yellow has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the WS Yellow has a deeper key press, providing a more substantial feel when using the keyboard. On the other hand, the Lightning offers a shorter travel distance, which is favored by gamers seeking faster response times. Both switches offer distinct advantages depending on personal preference. Those who prioritize responsiveness may opt for the Lightning, while individuals who prefer a deeper key press may lean towards the WS Yellow. It is important to consider one's own typing style and comfort when selecting between the two switches.
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 Yellow 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, the KTT Lightning switch offers a clacky profile with a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This creates a crisp and bright sound that enthusiasts tend to enjoy. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the WS Yellow switch are not mentioned, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison. However, it is worth noting that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. If you are looking for a similar sound experience to the Lightning switch, the WS Yellow might provide a familiar sound signature that enthusiasts adore.
In terms of feel, the KTT Lightning switch provides a subtle resistance that maintains a light typing feel. It offers a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The WS Yellow switch, on the other hand, offers a creamy and buttery typing experience, often due to factory lubrication or specific materials used. It provides a silky sensation and effortless keystrokes that glide across the keys with ease. Additionally, the WS Yellow switch is also described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. Both switches have a polished finish, ensuring smooth and fluid typing experiences.
Based on the available information, the KTT Lightning switch is known for its clacky sound and subtle feel, while the WS Yellow switch is known for its creamier sound profile and gentle typing experience. While the specific sound characteristics of the WS Yellow switch are not mentioned, it is likely to provide a familiar sound signature enjoyed by enthusiasts. Both switches offer a smooth and refined typing experience due to their polished finishes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for the specific sound and feel qualities described.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a "speed" switch that allows for lightning-fast keystrokes, you should choose the KTT Lightning linear switch. With its light bottom out force of 50 grams, it is perfect for situations where milliseconds can make a difference between victory and defeat. The Lightning switch offers a slick typing feel and produces a clacky sound profile, which adds to the overall experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a delightful typing experience with a satisfying bounce, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch is the way to go. With a slightly higher bottom out force of 53 grams, it falls into the medium-light range. These switches are crafted to be lightweight, ensuring effortless keystrokes and a smooth typing experience. The WS Yellow switch also offers a familiar sound signature that enthusiasts love. Ultimately, both switches have their unique qualities, and your choice depends on your priorities and preferences. Whether you value speed and a clacky sound or a delightful bounce and smooth typing experience, there is a switch that suits your needs.
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