Outemu Black vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Outemu Black and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Black, a linear switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile, a tactile switch. The Outemu Black switch is best known for its smooth and consistent keystrokes, making it ideal for fast typists and gamers who prefer a linear feel. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch from Wuque Studio stands out for its 70g tactile bump, immersive resistance, and captivating "thocky" sound, creating a satisfying typing experience. While the Black switch offers a straightforward typing experience, the WS Heavy Tactile switch provides a more tactile and audible feedback. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Black and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile, we can see that they both feature a nylon bottom housing. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the nylon material. However, the impact of the bottom housing on the sound and feel of bottoming out a key will be more pronounced in both switches compared to the top housing.
On the other hand, the key difference lies in the top housing material used in each switch. The Outemu Black features a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. In comparison, the WS Heavy Tactile utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
Overall, while both switches have a nylon bottom housing for a similar deep and full sound profile, the choice between the Outemu Black and the WS Heavy Tactile will come down to personal preference for sound characteristics. The polycarbonate top housing of the Black will offer a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon top housing of the WS Heavy Tactile will produce a deeper and fuller sound. Whichever switch you choose, the housing materials will play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of typing on the mechanical keyboard.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Black linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that the Black switch is heavier in both aspects. The Outemu Black has an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, providing a substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a more medium-heavy option. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience to type for longer periods or engage in extended gaming sessions, the WS Heavy Tactile may be the better choice. However, for individuals seeking a more substantial and heavier typing feel, the Outemu Black switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Black linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, it is clear that the WS Heavy Tactile has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm compared to the Black's 4 mm. The Black switch offers a more traditional travel distance, while the WS Heavy Tactile provides a shallower option. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the WS Heavy Tactile for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more in-depth feeling when typing may prefer the Black switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
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 Heavy Tactile 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Black linear switch is known for being relatively quiet, providing a smooth and consistent typing experience without much click or clack. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch is recognized for its 'thocky' sound, which is described as deep and resonant, giving a satisfying and immersive auditory feedback while typing. The WS Heavy Tactile switch is also noted for its high-pitched and sharp sound profile, making it stand out in terms of sound quality compared to the quieter Outemu Black switch.
Moving on to the feel, the Outemu Black switch is known for its linear and consistent keystrokes without any tactile bump or audible click. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch offers a profound tactile experience with a 70g bump, providing a pronounced feedback with each key press. The WS Heavy Tactile switch is described as bouncy, sharp, and snappy, offering a lively and invigorating typing sensation. This is in contrast to the more straightforward and consistent feel of the Outemu Black switch, making the WS Heavy Tactile switch a preferred choice for those looking for a more tactile and tactile feedback while typing.
Overall, the Outemu Black linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch offer different experiences in terms of sound and feel. While the Outemu Black switch provides a quiet and linear typing experience, the WS Heavy Tactile switch delivers a more engaging and immersive tactile feedback with a distinct 'thocky' sound profile. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both switches can offer a satisfying typing experience, but users looking for a more tactile and resonant feel with immersive auditory feedback may prefer the WS Heavy Tactile switch over the Outemu Black switch.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prefer a heavier switch with a linear feel and don't mind the lack of tactile feedback, the Outemu Black linear switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a satisfying "thocky" sound, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch would be a great option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of force, sound, and feel. Consider what type of typing experience you are looking for and choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences.
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