SP-Star Meteor White vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor White and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Meteor White and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile are two popular options that offer distinct experiences. The Meteor White is a linear switch, known for its gentle and easy-to-push keys, creating a soft and pitter-patter sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile is a tactile switch that provides a remarkable and pronounced tactile bump with a satisfying resistance of 70g. Its nylon housings contribute to a "thocky" resonance, producing a captivating sound profile. While the Meteor White offers a subdued and mild typing experience, the WS Heavy Tactile aims to immerse users in an engaging and invigorating journey. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor White and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches are quite similar. Both switches feature nylon top and bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on them. Nylon is a softer plastic compared to harder plastics, allowing it to absorb more sound and create a duller and rounder sound. As a result, both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality.
However, it is worth noting that if the top and bottom housings differ for a switch, the qualities of each housing material will be divided between the top and the bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while both the Meteor White and WS Heavy Tactile switches utilize nylon in their housings, any differences in their top and bottom housings may result in slightly varied sound profiles.
Overall, the housing materials of the Meteor White and WS Heavy Tactile switches provide similar results in terms of sound quality. Both switches benefit from the use of nylon, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Whether you choose the Meteor White or the WS Heavy Tactile, you can expect a satisfying and immersive typing experience with a focus on enhanced sound.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role. Unfortunately, the exact actuation force for both switches is unavailable. However, the Meteor White has a bottom out force of 57 grams, which can be considered medium-light, while the WS Heavy Tactile has a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is comparatively lighter.
Considering their weight, the Meteor White switch offers a slightly heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. This can be advantageous for individuals who enjoy a tactile response while typing. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a lighter bottom out force, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter switch to type on for extended periods. This lightweight characteristic can be particularly useful for those who use their keyboards for long gaming sessions or in a professional environment.
While their actuation forces are not specified, it is essential to note that similar results can potentially be achieved with both switches if they have a similar actuation force. However, the different bottom out forces present distinct typing experiences, allowing users to tailor their choice based on their preferences and requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch is 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. The difference in travel distances between the two switches is relatively small, with the Meteor White offering a slightly longer key travel. Generally, a 4.0 mm travel distance is considered more traditional, while 3.0 mm is considered more shallow. However, it is important to note that shorter travel distances have become increasingly popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing or gaming experience, the shorter travel distance of the WS Heavy Tactile switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the 4.0 mm travel distance of the Meteor White switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White for $5.00.
The Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile comes in at $3.50 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
The SP-Star Meteor White linear switch is best known for its soft and gentle qualities. It offers a subdued sound profile that can be described as pitter-patter, creating a pleasant and neutral auditory experience. The feel of the Meteor White switch is mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. It stands in a safe middle ground zone, appealing to most users.
On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch is a remarkable addition to the WS series. It boasts a pronounced tactile bump, providing a satisfying resistance with each keystroke. The sound profile of the Wuque Heavy Tactile switches is described as clacky and high-pitched, creating a crisp and percussive auditory feedback. The nylon housings used in these switches contribute to a thocky resonance, adding to the satisfying auditory experience.
In summary, the Meteor White linear switch offers a soft and gentle sound profile with a subdued and neutral typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch provides a pronounced tactile bump, creating a clacky and high-pitched sound profile with an invigorating and engaging feel. The two switches offer distinct subjective qualities, catering to different preferences. However, if you prefer a similar soft and gentle experience to the Meteor White, you can achieve similar results by selecting a switch with a mild and polished feel, such as a polished linear switch or a mild tactile switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a gentle and soothing typing experience, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 57 grams, it offers a medium-light actuation force that is easy to push. The soft and pitter-patter sound profile adds to the overall gentle feel of this switch. Its sound can be described as neutral or thocky, providing a moderate and satisfying auditory feedback.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more immersive and engaging typing journey, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch is the better option. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, it offers a lighter actuation force. This switch boasts a profound and pronounced tactile bump, providing a satisfying resistance with each keystroke. The "thocky" and clacky sound profile of the Wuque Heavy Tactile adds to the immersive experience, offering a sharp and crisp sound when pressed.
Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star Meteor White and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches depends on your preference for the typing experience. If you prefer a soft and gentle feel with a moderate sound profile, the Meteor White is the way to go. However, if you crave a more tactile and immersive experience with a satisfying auditory feedback, the WS Heavy Tactile is the perfect fit. Consider your personal preferences and requirements to choose the switch that suits you best.
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