Haimu Orange Sea vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Haimu Orange Sea and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Haimu Orange Sea and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile stand out as two compelling options, each catering to different typing preferences. The Haimu Orange Sea switch is celebrated for its impeccably smooth typing experience, providing a linear feel that allows for uninterrupted keystrokes, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists seeking speed and responsiveness without tactile distractions. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch offers a balance of smoothness complemented by a snappy, perceptible tactile bump, ideal for those who desire feedback while typing, making it particularly rewarding for lengthy typing sessions or programming work. Both switches feature a neutral sound signature, keeping the noise level in check. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the Haimu Orange Sea and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in similar sound profiles characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched tone. This specific material choice is pivotal in delivering a crisper auditory experience, as polycarbonate's stiffness enhances sound clarity and resonance. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for effective RGB lighting, making both switches visually appealing in illuminated settings. Hence, users can expect a consistent sound profile likely resulting from the shared use of this material in the top housing, facilitating an exceptional typing experience with vibrant lighting effects.
Contrasting the two models, the bottom housings differ significantly, with both the Orange Sea and the WS Light Tactile employing nylon for their respective bottom housings. Nylon's inherent characteristics lead to a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing, as its softer composition absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. Thus, while the top housings contribute to the sound upon release, the nylon bottom housings play a critical role in shaping the bottom-out sound and feel of each key press. This divergence in materials illustrates how different properties can coexist and influence the overall typing experience depending on the housing position.
In summary, while both the Haimu Orange Sea and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile share similarities in their top housing material—polycarbonate that enhances clarity and supports RGB applications—their bottom housing materials, both made of nylon, contribute to a fuller sound profile. This combined architecture ensures that each switch uniquely blends the characteristics of its materials, with the top delivering sharpness and brightness and the bottom providing warmth and depth. Ultimately, the nuanced differences and similarities in the housing materials underscore the complexity of how individual elements affect the auditory and tactile qualities of keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, notable differences emerge. The Orange Sea features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the WS Light Tactile has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that users who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming might favor the Orange Sea, as it requires less force to activate. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile, with its heavier actuation force, may appeal to those seeking a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Overall, the Haimu Orange Sea is the lighter option, while the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile is the heavier switch of the two.
Travel distance
The Haimu Orange Sea linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This indicates that the WS Light Tactile switch offers a longer travel distance compared to the Orange Sea. The difference in travel distance may influence user experience; those who prefer quicker response times, such as gamers, might favor the shorter 3.6 mm travel of the Orange Sea for its more immediate feedback. Conversely, individuals who enjoy a deeper and more tactile feel might opt for the WS Light Tactile, as its 4 mm travel distance provides a more substantial keypress experience. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Haimu Orange Sea would be the better choice, while the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile would appeal to those seeking a more pronounced actuation with a longer travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Haimu Orange Sea comes in at $2.79, 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
The sound profile of the Haimu Orange Sea switches is characterized as neutral, providing a moderate sound signature that isn’t overly loud or distracting, making it suitable for both home and office environments. Similarly, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches also feature a neutral sound signature, which allows for a balanced audio experience while typing. This commonality means that users looking for a quieter keyboard experience will achieve similar results with either switch, though the overall sound may still vary depending on factors like the keyboard build and keycap materials.
When it comes to feel, the Haimu Orange Sea switches are noted for their impeccably smooth typing experience. This smoothness contributes to a very satisfying user experience, particularly for those who prioritize fast and fluid key presses. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches offer a tactile bump that is snappy and easily noticeable, delivering a distinct step in the keystroke. This tactile feedback is complemented by their easy-to-press mechanism, requiring minimal force for activation. Thus, while the Orange Sea focuses on smoothness, the WS Light Tactile achieves a blend of tactile feedback and ease of use, appealing to users who enjoy a more dynamic and responsive typing feel.
In conclusion, both the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch present unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While they share a neutral sound signature, the Orange Sea leans towards a smoother typing experience, whereas the WS Light Tactile offers a tactile bump with easy actuation. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize smoothness or tactile feedback in your typing experience, but both options are excellent for a balanced keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a smooth typing experience and seek effortless keystrokes, the Orange Sea switch is an excellent option. Its lighter actuation force of 45 grams not only promotes speed during fast typing sessions but also ensures minimal finger fatigue, making it ideal for those who type for long periods. On the other hand, if you appreciate tactile feedback while maintaining a generally smooth feel, the WS Light Tactile switch may be better suited for you. With its perceptible bump and a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams, this switch provides a satisfying tactile experience without being overwhelming, catering well to both casual typists and gamers who enjoy the tactile response. Additionally, the neutral sound profile of both switches makes them versatile for various environments, whether you're in a quiet office or at home. Ultimately, think about your workflow and typing style to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard experience.
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