Outemu Black vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+

Overview

When exploring mechanical keyboard switches, two popular linear options that stand out are the Outemu Black and the Wuque Studio WS POM+. The Outemu Black switch, though not widely recognized for specific attributes, offers a straightforward typing experience that many users appreciate for its consistent keystroke without tactile feedback, making it suitable for those who prefer a streamlined, uninterrupted input. In contrast, the WS POM+ is celebrated for its all-POM construction, producing an impressive "thock" sound signature and an exceptionally smooth keystroke, resulting in a satisfying auditory and tactile experience that enhances overall typing pleasure. While both switches cater to users who favor linear switches for their minimal resistance and smooth actuation, the WS POM+ distinguishes itself with its unique sound profile and build quality. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your personal preferences.

By the numbers

Outemu Black Linear

Wuque Studio WS POM+ Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.90 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the Outemu Black and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches, a notable difference in the top housing materials sets the stage for varied sound profiles. The Outemu Black employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and translucency. This material contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, allowing for a more pronounced high-pitched note when a key is pressed or released. Conversely, the WS POM+ utilizes a POM (polyoxymethylene) top housing, which results in a deeper and more muted audio signature. While POM offers a smoother and more pleasant acoustic experience, it lacks the brightness that polycarbonate provides. In this way, the two switches differentiate themselves acoustically based on the materials used in their top housings, creating distinct auditory experiences.

Turning to the bottom housing, both the Outemu Black and WS POM+ utilize nylon and POM, respectively, leading to a convergence in their sound profiles. The Outemu Black's nylon bottom housing is characterized as a classic choice for switch construction, producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition. This allows the nylon to absorb sound, contributing to a rounder acoustic experience. In contrast, the WS POM+ features a POM bottom housing that also provides a pleasingly muted sound, which aligns closely with the characteristics of nylon. Despite their different materials, both switches deliver a rich and enjoyable auditory output, making them appealing to those who prefer a deeper sound profile in their typographic experience.

Ultimately, the differences in sound profiles between the Outemu Black and the WS POM+ illustrate how the materials chosen for a switch's top and bottom housing can mutually influence the overall acoustic characteristics. While the polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Black adds brightness and clarity to individual keypresses and releases, the nylon bottom enhances the rounded sound on bottoming out. In contrast, the WS POM+ takes a more consistent approach with its POM materials for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a harmoniously muted experience. While these switches fundamentally differ in their design, users can still achieve a comparably rich and full soundscape, particularly in bottoming out, due to the POM material shared by the WS POM+ and the nylon used by the Outemu Black. Thus, while their top housing produces different effects, both switches can ultimately satisfy similar auditory preferences depending on the user’s tactile and acoustic aims.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Black linear switch to the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, a clear distinction in their actuation and bottom out forces emerges. The Outemu Black features a heaviness that many typists might appreciate; it has an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams. This makes it suitable for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience, as the heavier resistance can offer a satisfying tactile feedback during long typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ is significantly lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, appealing to those who favor a less strenuous typing experience that allows for prolonged use without fatigue. As such, while the Black switch caters to individuals who relish a firmer push feel, the WS POM+ is ideal for users seeking a more relaxed typing experience. Overall, the Outemu Black is the heavier option, while the WS POM+ is the lighter one.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Black linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, there's a notable difference. The Outemu Black features a traditional travel distance of 4 mm, which many users appreciate for its depth and the satisfying feel it provides when pressing down a key. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ offers a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, catering to those who favor a quicker response time, particularly in gaming scenarios. Therefore, if you're seeking a more substantial key press experience, the Outemu Black would be the preferable choice, while the WS POM+ suits those who prioritize speed and responsiveness with its shorter travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Black linear switch has yet to be characterized in terms of its auditory qualities, which leaves it somewhat of a mystery. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switch is celebrated for its deep, satisfying "thock" sound signature. Users often appreciate the acoustics that accompany these switches, which contribute to a richer typing experience. The sound profile of the Outemu Black may vary based on the choice of board and keycaps, but without specific qualities to note, it is difficult to compare directly to the clearly defined auditory experience of the WS POM+.

In the realm of feel, the Outemu Black switch is also not described, leaving it unclear how it compares in terms of tactile response and smoothness to the WS POM+. On the other hand, the WS POM+ promises a buttery-smooth keystroke, giving users a refined and pleasant typing sensation. This smoothness can enhance typing speed and accuracy, making it a favored choice among those who prioritize a fluid typing experience. However, without any details on the Black's feel, it remains impossible to draw any direct comparisons or conclusions in this area.

In summary, while the Outemu Black linear switch lacks defined qualities in terms of both sound and feel, the WL POM+ clearly stands out for its deep sound and buttery smoothness. If you prefer a known auditory experience and a refined typing sensation, the WS POM+ presents a compelling choice. For the Outemu Black, potential users may need to explore further or rely on personal experimentation, but it remains a wildcard option that could still deliver satisfaction depending on the user’s preferences and setup.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between Outemu Black linear switches and Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switches, it's important to consider your typing preferences and intended usage. If you prefer a heavier switch with a bottom-out force of 82 grams and enjoy the tactile satisfaction that comes with a more deliberate press, then the Outemu Black may be the right choice for you, especially if you engage in gaming where control and stability are paramount. However, if you favor a smoother and lighter typing experience, the WS POM+ with its 55 grams bottom-out force could be more ideal, particularly for long typing sessions where comfort and speed are critical. The WS POM+ not only offers a delightful "thock" sound signature but also enhances your typing with buttery-smooth keystrokes, making it particularly appealing for those who prioritize auditory feedback and a satisfying tactile feel. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you value a heavier, more controlled switch or a lighter, smoother typing experience that allows for increased speed and less fatigue.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Black Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Wuque Studio WS POM+ Linear

$3.90 per 10

Learn more