KTT Orange vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the KTT Orange and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Orange linear switch to the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, it's evident that both offer unique advantages for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The KTT Orange switch stands out for its bouncy feel, frictionless typing experience, and low-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for those who value a smooth and fluid key travel. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch offers a snappy and perceptible tactile bump in addition to a neutral sound signature, providing a more tactile typing experience that is easy to press. 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
46g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Orange and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic element to the switches. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the KTT Orange. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound quality when typing on the switch.
The housing materials of the KTT Orange and WS Light Tactile impact the overall sound and feel of the switches in different ways. The polycarbonate top housing of both switches contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, with a sharper and crisper sound when keys are pressed. However, the nylon bottom housing of the WS Light Tactile creates a deeper and fuller sound when keys bottom out, as opposed to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the KTT Orange. This difference in housing materials results in a variation in sound and feel when typing on the switches, offering users a choice between a sharper sound profile with the KTT Orange or a deeper sound profile with the WS Light Tactile.
In terms of functionality, the top and bottom housings of a switch play a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of each keystroke. The qualities of the housing materials are divided between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the choice of housing material for each part of the switch can significantly alter the overall typing experience for users, making it essential to consider the specific qualities offered by materials such as polycarbonate and nylon.
Weight
The KTT Orange linear switch is slightly heavier compared to the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch in terms of actuation and bottom out force. The Orange switch has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light option. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as a lighter option. The lighter actuation and bottom out force of the WS Light Tactile switch make it ideal for those looking for a lighter typing experience, perfect for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch provides a slightly heavier typing experience, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The KTT Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Orange switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the WS Light Tactile switch. The difference may not seem significant, but for some users, the shorter travel distance of the Orange switch may provide a quicker response time which can be beneficial for gaming. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch with a longer travel distance may offer a more satisfying depth for typing or general use. Both switches provide tactile feedback, but the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and how it affects the typing 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 Light Tactile comes in at $4.20 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Orange linear switch offers a low-pitched profile, creating a more bass-heavy and mellow tone during typing. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch provides a neutral sound signature, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. The sound produced by each switch can also be influenced by additional factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Orange linear switch is characterized as bouncy and frictionless, offering a lively and spring-like feedback with minimal resistance during key presses. Conversely, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch provides a stepped feel, with a mild tactile bump that allows for easy pre-travel and post-travel sensations. Additionally, it is easy to press, requiring minimal force to activate, resulting in a comfortable and low-impact typing experience that can reduce finger fatigue during long typing sessions.
In conclusion, while the KTT Orange linear switch provides a low-pitched sound profile and a bouncy, frictionless typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch offers a neutral sound signature and a stepped, easy-to-press feel. Whether you prefer a smoother, bouncier typing experience or a more tactile, easy-to-press feel, both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles. By considering your personal preferences and typing needs, you can choose the switch that best suits your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a keyboard switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a bouncy, frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Orange linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force and a tactile switch with a snappy, perceptible bump and a neutral sound signature, then the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch would be more suitable for your needs. Consider your typing preferences and priorities when choosing between these two switches to ensure the best typing experience for yourself.
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