KTT Mint vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the KTT Mint and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Mint linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch stand out as popular choices for enthusiasts. The Mint is praised for its smooth linear action and satisfying poppy thockiness, making typing feel light and fleeting. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switches offer a smooth typing experience with a noticeable tactile bump, all while maintaining a neutral sound signature. While the Mint is categorized as low-pitched and mild, the WS Light Tactile switch is described as stepped and easy-to-press. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Standard
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
15mm spring
Spring
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The KTT Mint and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile both feature polycarbonate top housings, which offer a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which produces a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is perfect for switches that utilize RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the keyboard. However, where they differ is in their nylon bottom housings. The Mint utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a more round and dull sound. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile also uses nylon for its bottom housing, providing a similar deep and full sound experience.
Although both switches have polycarbonate top housings, the KTT Mint and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile differ in their bottom housing material. While the Mint uses nylon for its bottom housing, the WS Light Tactile also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound due to its softer nature. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches using harder plastics for their housing materials. Despite this difference in bottom housing material, both switches offer a unique sound experience that is influenced by the qualities of their respective housing materials.
In terms of design and functionality, the KTT Mint and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile showcase how the choice of housing material can impact the sound and feel of a switch. The split design of having different materials for the top and bottom housings allows for a balance in sound qualities when typing on the switch. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Both switches benefit from the unique characteristics of their housing materials, offering users a distinct typing experience based on the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in their housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mint linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, we can see a few key differences. The Mint has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is considered light. Both switches have the same actuation force but differ in their bottom out force, with the Mint being slightly heavier. This means that while they will both provide a similar typing experience in terms of actuation force, the Mint will require slightly more force to fully press down the key compared to the WS Light Tactile. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether you prefer a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Mint linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will experience a consistent travel distance from the top to the bottom. Due to their equal travel distances, both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of keypress feel and overall travel distance._Runtime: 89 ms.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Mint comes in at $2.91, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile comes in at $4.20.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT Mint linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for various settings. Similarly, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch also boasts a neutral sound signature, ensuring a moderate sound profile that works well for both beginners and advanced users. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build and keycap material.
Moving on to the feel, the KTT Mint linear switch is known for its mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and refined feel that appeals to a wide range of users. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch features a stepped design, providing a more nuanced tactile feedback with pre-travel and post-travel sensations. Additionally, these switches are easy to press, requiring minimal force for activation and promoting a comfortable typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during prolonged use.
Overall, both the KTT Mint linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Mint switch provides a smooth linear feel with a poppy thockiness and a low-pitched sound, the WS Light Tactile switch delivers a snappy tactile bump and a neutral sound signature. Depending on your preference for linear or tactile switches, you can achieve satisfying results with either option based on your typing style and desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Mint linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences. If you value a smooth and poppy typing experience with a light and fleeting feel, the Mint switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers a snappy and perceptible tactile bump with a neutral sound signature, the WS Light Tactile switch could be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the Mint switch is best for those who prioritize a mild and polished typing experience with low-pitched and neutral sound, while the WS Light Tactile switch is recommended for users who prefer a stepped and easy-to-press tactile feel with a neutral sound profile. Consider these factors when making your decision to ensure you select the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences.
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