KTT Orange vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the KTT Orange and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Looking for the perfect mechanical keyboard switch? Allow us to introduce you to the KTT Orange, a linear switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile, a tactile switch. The KTT Orange is known for its bouncy feel, frictionless typing experience, and low-pitched sound profile. With its factory-lubing, you can expect a refined and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile offers a profound and pronounced tactile bump, providing a satisfying resistance of 70g with each keystroke. It also boasts a captivating sound profile with a "thocky" resonance. While these general features make both switches desirable, 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
46g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Orange and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Orange features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it especially suitable for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is sometimes described as duller and rounder.
These differences in housing materials have a direct impact on the sound and feel of the switches. While both polycarbonate and nylon contribute to the overall sound profile, the bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed. Therefore, the Orange's polycarbonate bottom housing would contribute to its sharper and crisper bottom-out sound. Conversely, the top housing has more influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. The polycarbonate top housing of the Orange would enhance the clarity of the sound when a key is let go.
Despite their differences, the KTT Orange and the WS Heavy Tactile have similarities in how they utilize their respective housing materials. Both polycarbonate and nylon are commonly used in switch housing, with recognition for their distinct sound qualities. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for switches with RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing feature shared by both switches. Thus, while the sound profiles may vary, the use of these materials ensures that both switches offer reliable and satisfying typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Orange linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, there are a few notable differences. The actuation force of the KTT Orange switch is 46 grams, while the actuation force for the WS Heavy Tactile switch is not specified. Despite this, it can be assumed that the actuation force of the WS Heavy Tactile is lighter than the KTT Orange, as it has a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is considered light. In contrast, the KTT Orange has a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it slightly heavier.
Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the WS Heavy Tactile switch would be ideal as its lighter actuation and bottom out forces allow for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the KTT Orange switch, with its slightly heavier bottom out force providing a stronger push feel.
Overall, the KTT Orange linear switch and the WS Heavy Tactile switch offer different weight options to cater to varying preferences. While the actuation force of the WS Heavy Tactile switch is unknown, its lighter bottom out force suggests a lighter typing experience. Meanwhile, the KTT Orange switch provides a slightly heavier experience with its medium-light actuation and higher bottom out force. By understanding one's personal typing preferences, one can choose the switch that best suits their needs.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Orange linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the travel distance of the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch is 3.2 mm. In terms of travel distance, the WS Heavy Tactile has a slightly shorter distance compared to the Orange switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers who value faster response times. Opting for the shorter travel distance of the WS Heavy Tactile switch would provide a more responsive feel. On the other hand, for those who prefer a deeper and more substantial key press, the Orange switch's longer travel distance may be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a quicker response or a more substantial key press experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
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
When it comes to the sound of these two switches, the KTT Orange switch offers a low-pitched sound profile. This means that it produces a deeper and more mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch is described as clacky, high-pitched, and resonant. This means that it produces a sharp, crisp, and clean sound when pressed, with a bit of a higher pitch. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is not solely determined by the switch itself, but also by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. With that said, if you want a switch with a low-pitched sound, the KTT Orange would be a suitable choice, while the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile will provide a more clacky and high-pitched auditory experience.
In terms of feel, both switches offer a bouncy sensation. Bouncy switches provide a spring-like or elastic feedback, giving the keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed. Additionally, the Orange switch is described as frictionless, offering an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance or friction. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch is also described as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy. This means that it provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming, creating an immersive typing sensation. The feedback intensity is strong and crisp, adding to the overall feel of the switch. Both switches offer a lively and responsive feel, ensuring an engaging typing experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Orange and Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Orange switch provides a low-pitched sound profile with a slick and frictionless typing experience. It is bouncy and offers a spring-like feel. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch has a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound profile. It is accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy in terms of feel, offering a pronounced tactile feedback and a responsive typing experience. Both switches have their unique characteristics, so the choice between them depends on personal preferences. However, if you are looking for a low-pitched and smooth switch, the KTT Orange will deliver similar results in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a smooth and frictionless typing experience, along with a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Orange linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. With its 53 gram bottom out force, bouncy feel, and excellent factory-lubing, you can expect refined and fluid key travel. Additionally, the Orange switch features a polycarbonate milky top housing and a vivid orange nylon bottom housing, providing a sleek and visually appealing aesthetic. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile typing experience with an immersive and engaging sound profile, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch would be a great fit. With its light 45 gram bottom out force and prominent tactile bump, each keystroke will offer satisfying resistance. The Heavy Tactile switch also boasts a captivating "thocky" sound and features nylon housings that contribute to the resonance and auditory feedback. Ultimately, your decision between these two switches will depend on your preference for smoothness and low-pitched sound (KTT Orange) versus tactility and immersive sound (WS Heavy Tactile).