Outemu Black vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Outemu Black and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Black linear switch to the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch, it is evident that both offer distinct advantages depending on the user's preferences. The Outemu Black is a linear switch that is best known for its none categorization, providing a straightforward typing experience without any additional features. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear by Wuque is designed to elevate your office and work experience with its exceptional responsiveness and noise reduction capabilities. By forgoing silicone dampeners, these switches offer a unique typing experience that balances tranquility and precision. The WS Silent Linear is categorized as neutral, mild, muted, subdued, emphasizing its ability to provide a quiet and subtle typing experience. However, let's delve 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Black and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear, it is clear that both switches use nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This means that both switches will likely have a similar overall sound and feel when typing, as the bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
However, when looking at the top housing material, the Outemu Black uses polycarbonate while the WS Silent Linear uses nylon. The polycarbonate top housing of the Black creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, due to its stiffness leading to a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the WS Silent Linear produces a deeper and rounder sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound. This contrast in top housing materials will result in a noticeable difference in sound and feel when pressing and releasing keys on these switches.
Despite the differences in top housing material, both the Outemu Black and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches are designed with the intention of providing a unique typing experience. The Black's polycarbonate top housing allows for a more clear and sharp sound profile, while the WS Silent Linear's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. These differences in housing materials cater to different preferences in typing sound and feel, offering users a choice in switches that can enhance their overall typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Black linear switch has a higher actuation force of 65 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the WS Silent Linear switch has a lighter bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Outemu Black switch has a heavier bottom out force of 82 grams. The Outemu Black switch is better suited for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, while the WS Silent Linear switch is ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time. Both switches offer different levels of resistance, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
The Outemu Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Black switch offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the WS Silent Linear switch. A longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying keypress feel for some users, as it allows for a deeper press. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch's shorter travel distance could appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches offer different travel distances to cater to individual preferences, with the Black switch providing a bit more depth and the WS Silent Linear switch offering a slightly quicker keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance.
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 Silent Linear comes in at $4.20.
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 Black switch is known for maintaining a standard level of noise without any specific standout characteristics. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch is revered for its muted and subdued sound profile. By eliminating the need for silicone dampeners and incorporating innovative design elements such as stem railings with cutouts, the WS Silent Linear switch provides a quieter typing experience while still maintaining a satisfying bottom-out sensation. This makes it a preferred choice for individuals seeking a more tranquil and noise-reducing switch option, especially in shared office spaces or other environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum.
Turning to the feel of these switches, the Black switch's tactile feedback and overall typing experience remain unspecified in the provided information. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear switch is described as offering a mild typing experience, characterized by a gentler feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone of switch characteristics. This implies that the WS Silent Linear switch provides a comfortable and approachable typing feel that can cater to a wide range of users, making it a versatile option for both beginners and advanced keyboard enthusiasts alike.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Black linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch offer different sound and feel profiles, they both excel in providing unique typing experiences. The Black switch may appeal to those seeking a standard linear switch experience, while the WS Silent Linear switch elevates typing sessions with its enhanced noise-reducing capabilities and mild tactile feedback. Choosing between the two switches ultimately boils down to individual preference and the specific typing environment in which they will be used. As both switches deliver satisfying typing experiences, users can expect to achieve similar results in terms of performance and comfort, with the added benefit of reduced noise levels when opting for the WS Silent Linear switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Outemu Black linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a standard typing experience, the Outemu Black may be suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a lower bottom out force, a quieter typing experience with innovative stem railings design, and a more gentle typing feel, then the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch would be a better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the specific requirements of your typing environment. Consider these aspects carefully to ensure you select the switch that best suits your needs.