KTT Mint vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the KTT Mint 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 Mint and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow are two popular options to consider. The Mint is well-known for its satisfyingly smooth linear switch, offering a light and fleeting type feel. With its long pole stem, typing on the Mint switches provides a poppy thockiness that many enjoy. Categorized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished, the Mint switch offers a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Yellow linear switches from Wuque Studio combine classic materials with cutting-edge engineering, resulting in a timeless fusion. These switches feature a 22mm double-stage spring that delivers a delightful bounce while typing. Offering a familiar sound signature that enthusiasts adore, the WS Yellow switches are categorized as creamy, mild, and polished. Both switches provide effortless keystrokes and ensure a smooth and fluid typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Mint and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow differ significantly, with the Mint utilizing a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the WS Yellow features a nylon top and bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Mint creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Conversely, the nylon top housing of the WS Yellow produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature and greater sound absorption. This contrast in sound profiles highlights the importance of the top housing material in determining the overall sound experience of a switch.
On the other hand, both the Mint and the WS Yellow share the use of nylon in their bottom housing, which leads to a similar deeper and fuller sound profile. As nylon is a classic switch housing material known for its ability to absorb sound, both switches benefit from this characteristic in creating a duller and rounder sound when typing. Therefore, despite their differences in top housing material, the switch experience of both the Mint and the WS Yellow is comparable when it comes to bottom-out sound and feel.
It is worth noting that the choice of housing materials for the top and bottom of a switch has specific implications for the sound produced during key press and release. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing, such as the nylon bottom housing of the Mint and the WS Yellow, have a larger impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the sound produced when releasing a key is more influenced by the properties of the top housing material. Therefore, the choice of housing materials can result in distinct sound characteristics at different stages of typing, highlighting the importance of considering both the top and bottom housings in switch design.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mint and Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switches, there are notable similarities and differences. Both switches have a bottom out force of 53 grams, which falls into the medium-light category. However, the actuation force of the KTT Mint is 45 grams, while the exact actuation force of the WS Yellow is unavailable.
The difference in actuation force is significant as it determines how much force is needed to activate the keys. With the KTT Mint's lower actuation force of 45 grams, users can experience a lighter touch and potentially type for longer periods without straining their fingers. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switch's actuation force is unknown, making it difficult to compare directly. However, assuming it is also within the medium-light range, a similar result to the KTT Mint can be achieved in terms of actuation force.
Considering weight, some users might prefer a lighter switch, allowing for extended typing sessions or longer gaming sessions without fatigue. In this regard, the KTT Mint switch would be the lighter option due to its lower actuation force. Those who enjoy a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may lean towards switches with heavier forces. The exact actuation force of the WS Yellow remains unknown, but given its shared bottom out force of 53 grams, it can be inferred that it falls within the medium-light category, similar to the KTT Mint.
In conclusion, the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mint and Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switches exhibit both similarities and differences. While the Mint has a known actuation force of 45 grams, the specific actuation force of the WS Yellow is unavailable, but both switches share a bottom out force of 53 grams. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference for a lighter typing experience or a more substantial keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Mint linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, it is clear that the Mint has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Yellow has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Although the difference between the two is minimal, it is worth noting that the Mint offers a fractionally deeper feel when pressing down on the keys. This can be beneficial for those who prefer a slightly more immersive and hearty typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Yellow provides a slightly shorter travel distance, which can appeal to gamers or individuals seeking faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference - if you prioritize responsiveness, the WS Yellow may be the better option for you, while if you prefer a deeper feel, the Mint would be more suitable. Regardless of the choice, both switches offer similar results in terms of their travel distance.
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 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 Mint linear switch is known for its low-pitched sound, giving it a bass-heavy and mellow tone. This creates a satisfying and relaxed auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch does not have any specific sound descriptors mentioned. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Although we do not have specific information about the sound of the WS Yellow, it is possible that it could offer a pleasant and enjoyable sound profile similar to the Mint if paired with suitable components.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the KTT Mint is described as having a mild and polished feel. The mild characteristic indicates a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. It does not have pronounced characteristics that might be more divisive. Additionally, the Mint has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the typing experience. Similarly, the WS Yellow is also described as having a mild and polished feel. This suggests that it offers a gentle typing experience without any significant extreme characteristics. The polished finish further contributes to a smooth and sleek typing sensation by minimizing friction.
Considering all the available information, the Mint and WS Yellow linear switches share some similarities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches offer a mild typing experience with a polished finish, ensuring smooth and effortless keystrokes. While we do not have specific sound descriptors for the WS Yellow, it is reasonable to expect a familiar and enjoyable sound signature, similar to the Mint. It is important to consider other factors, such as keyboard board and keycap choices, as they can affect the overall sound and feel of the switches. Ultimately, both the KTT Mint and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switches provide a satisfying and pleasant typing experience, each with their unique qualities.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering the KTT Mint linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, there are a few factors to take into account.
In terms of sound, the Mint switch is described as having a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. This makes it suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, there is no specific information provided about the sound profile of the WS Yellow switch.
When it comes to feel, the Mint switch is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This makes it approachable to most users, as it falls in the middle-ground zone. The WS Yellow switch, on the other hand, is described as creamy, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience. This is likely due to factory lubrication or specific materials used, resulting in a silky sensation and effortless keystrokes.
Ultimately, if you value a satisfyingly smooth linear switch with a light and fleeting type feel, the KTT Mint switch would be a good choice. Its poppy thockiness and polished feel make for a sleek and refined typing experience. However, if you prefer a timeless fusion of classic materials and cutting-edge engineering, along with a delightful typing experience and a familiar sound signature, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switch might be more suitable for you. Its creamy feel and lightweight design ensure a smooth and fluid typing experience.
In the end, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Consider what qualities are most important to you and choose accordingly.