Haimu Orange Sea vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the Haimu Orange Sea and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switches for your typing style, the Haimu Orange Sea and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ offer distinct experiences despite both being linear switches. The Haimu Orange Sea is celebrated for its impeccably smooth feel and neutral sound signature, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a minimalistic approach to feedback while typing. On the other hand, the WS POM+ impresses with its deep, satisfying “thock” sound and buttery-smooth keystroke, appealing to users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory experience as they type. Both switches provide a linear action, which means they operate without tactile bumps or clicky sounds, but they cater to different preferences in terms of feel and sound. Whether you prioritize a subdued sound with effortless smoothness or a more resonant keystroke that adds a degree of satisfaction to each press, each switch has its merits. 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Haimu Orange Sea and Wuque Studio WS POM+ utilize distinct materials for their top housings—polycarbonate for the former and POM (polyoxymethylene) for the latter. Polycarbonate, known for its rigidity, contributes to the Orange Sea's sharper and crisper sound profile, making it particularly suited for RGB lighting applications due to its translucency. This material's characteristics enhance the resonance and clarity of sounds produced when keys are pressed, resulting in a more pronounced auditory feedback. In contrast, the WS POM+ employs POM for its top housing, which generates a deeper and more muted sound. The inherent properties of POM lead to less resonance compared to polycarbonate, allowing for a unique sound experience characterized by its softness and smoothness.
When examining the bottom housings, both switches employ nylon in the Orange Sea and POM in the WS POM+. The nylon used in the Orange Sea is a well-established material in the keyboard world, known for producing a fuller and deeper sound profile. This muted sound is attributed to nylon's superior sound absorption qualities, resulting in a rounder auditory experience when typing. Conversely, the WS POM+ retains its POM material for the bottom housing, providing a similarly deeper tone. While both housings contribute to a sound profile that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum, the POM's traits might differ subtly from nylon, potentially offering a more refined and consistent sound without the variances introduced by different plastics.
In considering the combined effects of these materials, it is clear that each switch presents its own unique auditory experience. The Orange Sea's polycarbonate top housing ensures a bright tonal quality, while its nylon bottom contributes depth to the overall sound signature. The WS POM+, relying on POM for both top and bottom housings, achieves a more uniform sound with a distinct character that is inherently muted yet pleasing. If a switch has different top and bottom housings like in the case of the Haimu Orange Sea, the characteristics of each material will affect the typing experience variably, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out feel, while the top housing shapes the release sound, especially relevant when considering ergonomic play and deep auditory feedback.
Weight
The Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch demonstrate distinct characteristics in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Orange Sea features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a less taxing typing experience, particularly during extended use, such as at work or during long gaming sessions. In contrast, the WS POM+ has a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which caters to users seeking a more substantial feel while typing. Thus, the Orange Sea is lighter overall, while the WS POM+ is heavier, appealing to those who appreciate a bit more resistance in their keystrokes. Overall, if you're looking for an easier keystroke, the Orange Sea would be the preferable option, whereas the WS POM+ would be better suited for those who enjoy a firmer typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of both the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch is 3.6 mm, resulting in an identical feel when pressing down on a key. Since both switches have the same travel distance, you'll experience similar results in terms of key actuation and responsiveness. This comparability may appeal to users who prioritize consistent feedback and performance across different switches. Ultimately, neither switch is shorter or longer than the other, making them equal in this aspect.
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 POM+ comes in at $3.90.
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 Haimu Orange Sea switches have a neutral sound signature, which means they produce a relatively balanced level of auditory feedback without being overly intrusive or distracting. This makes them particularly suitable for environments where noise might be a concern, as they provide a quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches are characterized by their deep, satisfying "thock" sound signature. This quality can contribute to a more pronounced auditory experience while typing, giving a sense of depth and feedback that many users find enjoyable. However, it is important to note that the overall sound can also be influenced by other factors like the keyboard build, material choice, and keycap selection, potentially leading to differing experiences even with the same switch.
When discussing the feel, the Haimu Orange Sea switches are celebrated for their impeccably smooth typing experience, which provides a seamless keystroke without any noticeable bumps or interruptions. This smoothness can contribute to a more fluid typing experience, appealing to users who prefer an uninterrupted feel. In contrast, the WS POM+ switches excel in delivering a buttery-smooth keystroke, which suggests not only a similar smoothness but potentially an added layer of luxuriousness to the typing experience. Both switches aim to offer a high-quality tactile experience, ensuring that users enjoy a pleasurable interaction with their keyboard.
Overall, both the Haimu Orange Sea and Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches offer distinct yet appealing qualities. The Orange Sea is ideal for those who favor a neutral sound and silky smooth feel, making it a great choice for quieter environments. Meanwhile, the WS POM+ will attract users looking for auditory depth and luxurious smoothness in their typing experience. Whichever you choose, you can expect a satisfying typing experience that showcases the strengths of linear switches, whether you prioritize sound, feel, or both.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, your choice should reflect both your typing preferences and the kind of experience you desire. If you favor a lighter touch and appreciate a smoother typing experience alongside a neutral sound profile, the Haimu Orange Sea is the ideal option for you. This switch, with its 45-gram bottom-out force, allows for quick, effortless keystrokes, making it perfect for rapid typing or gaming scenarios where speed is paramount. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly firmer key feel and find enjoyment in the tactile feedback of a deeper, more satisfying sound, the WS POM+ would be your go-to. Its 55-gram bottom-out force offers a bit more resistance, contributing to an overall sound signature that is robust and resonates with a desirable "thock." Ultimately, your choice hinges on whether you seek a more relaxed typing experience or a more pronounced auditory and tactile feedback, both of which these switches excel at in their unique ways.
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