Outemu Black vs. Wuque Studio WS Brown
An in-depth look at the Outemu Black and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Black and the Wuque Studio WS Brown offer two distinct typing experiences. The Outemu Black is a linear switch, known for its smooth keystrokes and consistent actuation force. On the other hand, the WS Brown is a tactile switch that provides a satisfying bump when activated. The WS Brown is praised for its medium-light actuation force, striking a perfect balance between responsiveness and comfort for long typing sessions. While the Black switch offers a straightforward typing experience, the WS Brown switch delivers a unique tactile feedback that many enthusiasts enjoy. 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
65g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Black and the Wuque Studio WS Brown, we find that both switches share a nylon top housing. This commonality means that when typing on either switch, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the inherent sound-absorbing properties of nylon. The softer nature of nylon as a plastic material creates a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics, such as polycarbonate. This similarity in the top housing material ensures that users will experience a consistent typing experience in terms of sound quality between the two switches.
However, where the Black features a polycarbonate bottom housing, the WS Brown utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. This difference in the bottom housing material will impact the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate in the Black's bottom housing may result in a sharper and more resonant sound profile upon bottoming out, while the softer nylon material in the WS Brown's bottom housing could provide a duller and rounder bottom-out sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials demonstrates how the choice of housing material can influence typing experience and sound quality.
Ultimately, the Outemu Black and the Wuque Studio WS Brown offer unique combinations of housing materials that contribute to their individual sound profiles. While the use of nylon in the top housing of both switches ensures a consistent deeper and fuller sound experience, the differences in their bottom housing materials create distinct bottom-out sound profiles. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Black or the duller and rounder sound of nylon in the WS Brown, both switches provide a customizable typing experience based on the housing materials chosen for each component.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Black linear switch to the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, the actuation force and bottom out force differ significantly. The Outemu Black has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Contrarily, the WS Brown has a lighter actuation force as it is unknown and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions. The actuation force on the WS Brown is not specified, but it is likely lighter than the Outemu Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference - whether one prefers a heavier force for a more solid typing feel or a lighter force for extended typing comfort.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Black linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, we find that the Black has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Brown has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Black being slightly longer than the WS Brown. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the WS Brown, while those seeking a more substantial key press experience may opt for the Outemu Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the desired feel when typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Black comes in at $3.10, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Brown 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 Outemu Black linear switch is often preferred by those who enjoy a quieter typing experience due to its smooth and consistent actuation. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch offers a more pronounced and satisfying typing sound, thanks to its unique combination of nylon housing and POM stem. Depending on the user's preference, the Black switch may be more suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience, while the WS Brown switch is favored by enthusiasts who enjoy a more audible and tactile feedback.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Black linear switch provides a consistent and smooth typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a linear switch with a more straightforward feel. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch offers a satisfying tactile bump that provides feedback to the user, making it easier to register key presses. The medium-light actuation force of the WS Brown switch strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort, ensuring a fatigue-free typing experience during long sessions.
In conclusion, the Outemu Black linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Black switch provides a smoother and quieter typing experience, the WS Brown switch delivers a more audible and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing style. It is important to consider factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used to achieve the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Black linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, you should choose the Black switch if you prefer a heavy bottom out force and are not concerned about clickiness or tactile feedback. This switch is best suited for gamers who prioritize speed and precision in their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prioritize comfort and a balance between responsiveness and fatigue-free typing, the WS Brown switch with its medium-light actuation force is the better choice. It is perfect for long typing sessions and offers a pleasant auditory experience with its nylon housing and POM stem combination. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your typing style and preferences.
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