KTT Matcha vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Matcha and the Wuque Studio WS Onion are two popular mechanical keyboard switches with unique features that cater to different typing preferences. The Matcha is a tactile switch that is known for its comfortable and snappy tactility, providing a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, it offers a clean bottom-out sound due to its long pole stem. On the other hand, the WS Onion is a linear switch with a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a smooth keystroke feel that is highly satisfying. It delivers a crisp and responsive typing experience with a neutral sound profile. While the Matcha focuses on providing a tactile response, the Onion prioritizes a smooth keystroke feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision and choose the best switch that suits your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
WS CL635 Gold Plated Stainless Spring
Housing materials
The KTT Matcha and the Wuque Studio WS Onion both utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic, allowing for a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Similarly, both switches have a polycarbonate bottom housing. This means that pressing down on the switch will provide the same qualities in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel. However, it is worth noting that the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key, as the bottom housing is responsible for the initial impact.
In contrast, while the KTT Matcha and the Wuque Studio WS Onion share similarities in their top housing materials, their bottom housings differ. The Matcha features a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the WS Onion incorporates a nylon bottom housing. This variation in materials leads to distinct sound profiles. The Matcha's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound, reinforcing the overall characteristics of the switch. On the other hand, the WS Onion's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. With its relatively softer composition, nylon absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, when choosing between these switches, the preference for sound profile will heavily depend on whether one prefers a sharper or deeper sound.
Overall, it is important to consider the impact that the housing materials have on the sound profiles of the KTT Matcha and Wuque Studio WS Onion. The use of polycarbonate in both switches' top housing creates similar sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sounds. Moreover, both switches' polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to the overall sound when pressing the keys. However, the WS Onion distinguishes itself by incorporating a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Matcha's sharper profile. Therefore, selecting between these switches will depend on individual preferences regarding sound characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Matcha has a relatively light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. In contrast, the exact actuation force of the WS Onion switch is unavailable, but it has a considerably heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, giving it a medium-heavy feel.
Considering the importance of weight in keyboard switches, individuals may have different preferences. Some users may prefer a lighter actuation force, as it allows for more comfortable typing over long periods, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience might lean towards switches with heavier forces that provide a stronger push feel.
In terms of actuation force, the Matcha's lighter 40-gram requirement means it will be easier to trigger keystrokes with less force compared to the WS Onion, assuming the latter has a higher actuation force. Additionally, when it comes to bottoming out, the WS Onion imposes a heavier force of 63.5 grams, while the Matcha requires a comparatively lighter 45 grams. Consequently, users of the WS Onion will experience a firmer and more pronounced typing sensation when fully pressing the keys, while the Matcha offers a slightly less forceful bottoming out experience.
While the specific actuation force of the WS Onion is unknown, we can still compare and contrast it with the Matcha based on the given information. In this case, we can conclude that the Matcha is lighter both in actuation force and bottom out force, while the WS Onion is comparatively heavier, offering a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
Compared to the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, the KTT Matcha tactile switch has an equal travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel. The Matcha and WS Onion switches provide a consistent tactile feedback and a satisfying typing experience due to their identical travel distances. Whether you choose the Matcha or the WS Onion, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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.
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 Matcha switch is known for its clean bottom-out sound, resulting in a distinctly crisp and bright sound profile. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion switch offers a neutral sound profile that is neither too loud nor too quiet, making it suitable for various environments. Both switches provide pleasant sound experiences, with the Matcha switch being clacky and the Onion switch being neutral. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Matcha switch offers a stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle typing experience. The stepped design adds an element of mild tactility with pre-travel and/or post-travel, while the snappiness of the switch makes typing feel responsive and lively. The accented tactility provides a satisfying amount of tactile feedback without being overwhelming or scratchy. Additionally, the feathery nature of the switch makes it light to press, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Overall, the Matcha switch provides a comfortable and enjoyable typing feel.
On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion switch offers a buttery and polished keystroke experience. The buttery feel implies a smooth and fluid keystroke that is effortless and uniform. The switch's polished finish contributes to a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The WS Onion switch provides a satisfyingly smooth and refined typing feel.
In conclusion, both the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch offer unique qualities that contribute to a pleasant typing experience. The Matcha switch delivers a crisp and bright sound profile, along with a comfortable and snappy typing feel. On the other hand, the Onion switch offers a neutral sound profile and a buttery, polished keystroke experience. Depending on your preferences, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience tailored to your needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a light bottom-out force and a distinct clean bottom-out sound, the KTT Matcha is a great option. It offers a comfortable and snappy tactility while typing and has a clacky sound profile, which provides a sharp and percussive sound. Additionally, the Matcha is described as stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle, meaning it provides a responsive and comfortable typing experience that is suitable for extended use.
On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a buttery smooth keystroke feel, the Wuque Studio WS Onion is a fantastic choice. It features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to its smooth and refined finish. The WS Onion has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for different environments, and it is described as buttery and polished, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation with reduced friction.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. Whether you prioritize a light and tactile typing experience with a distinct sound or a smooth and effortless linear feel, both switches offer their unique advantages. Consider your preferred bottom-out force, sound profile, and typing feel when making your decision. In the end, both switches deliver on their promises of a high-quality mechanical keyboard experience.
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