Outemu Blue vs. Wuque Studio WS Dash
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preference and typing style. The Outemu Blue switch, recognized for its distinct clicky feedback, is ideal for those who enjoy a tactile and auditory response when typing. This switch typically appeals to typists and gamers alike, as it enhances the overall engagement during use. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Dash Hall Effect switch offers a modern twist with its smooth keystroke and bright, clacky sound signature, reminiscent of the Magnetic Jade but with a refined touch. This switch is particularly suited for users who seek a unique experience with less finger fatigue, thanks to its innovative design. While both switches cater to different preferences—one favoring the traditional clicky experience and the other prioritizing smoothness and modern technology—both have their respective merits. 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
50g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Blue and the Wuque Studio WS Dash utilize a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to their distinct sound profiles. The polycarbonate material is known for its stiffness, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when typing. This shared characteristic means that users can expect a similar auditory experience when using either switch, particularly when RGB lighting is involved. The translucency of the polycarbonate allows for vibrant illumination, enhancing the aesthetic appeal, especially in RGB setups. Thus, users opting for either switch can enjoy a similar resonance and clarity during their typing sessions.
On the lower end, both switches incorporate nylon as the bottom housing material. Nylon is celebrated for its softer properties, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile that contrasts with the sharper tones produced by the polycarbonate top. The combination of a nylon bottom and polycarbonate top creates a balanced auditory experience: the nylon absorbs some sound, resulting in a more muted, rounder impact upon bottoming out, while the polycarbonate top adds clarity as you release the keys. This pairing ensures that both switches provide a pleasing blend of sound characteristics, appealing to users who appreciate depth in their typing acoustics.
While both the Outemu Blue and the WS Dash utilize the same materials in their respective housings, their sound profiles are finely tuned by the distinct roles each material plays. The polycarbonate top emphasizes clear and resonant sounds when pressing the keys down or releasing them, while the nylon bottom softens and rounds out the overall auditory experience. This harmonious combination means that regardless of the specific switch used, users will achieve a well-rounded typing sound that is both crisp and full-bodied. Therefore, for enthusiasts and gamers alike, both switches promise quality performance through their thoughtfully chosen materials.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Outemu Blue features an actuation force of 50 grams, while the WS Dash has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams. This makes the Blue switch a heavier option, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In terms of bottom out force, while the WS Dash has a clearly defined bottom out force of 55 grams, the bottom out force for the Outemu Blue remains unknown. However, given the available data, it can be inferred that users may experience a more pronounced feedback and resistance with the Blue switch, whereas the WS Dash provides a gentler press, making it potentially more suitable for long typing sessions. Consequently, those seeking a lighter and easier press may gravitate towards the WS Dash, while those who value a firmer touch in their keystrokes might prefer the Outemu Blue.
Travel distance
The Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch exhibit differing travel distances that may influence your typing or gaming experience. The Outemu Blue features a traditional travel distance of 4 mm, providing a more substantial feel and satisfying feedback that some users find preferable for typing. In contrast, the WS Dash has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, which can facilitate quicker response times, making it an appealing choice for gamers who prioritize speed. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness, the WS Dash could offer a slight edge due to its shorter distance. However, for those who enjoy a deeper keystroke, the Outemu Blue’s 4 mm travel distance may be the better option, offering a more pronounced tactile experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Wuque Studio WS Dash has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Dash for $7.49.
The Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 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
When considering the sound quality of the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it is characterized by its traditional, distinct click that provides audible feedback with each keystroke. This click sound can be considered quite sharp and satisfying, making it popular among typists who appreciate tactile and acoustic feedback. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch boasts a bright and clacky sound signature. This sound is more refined and can give a more modern auditory experience compared to the Outemu Blue. However, it's essential to remember that the overall sound experience will also depend on the keyboard build and keycap materials you choose, meaning that while these switches provide different sounds, they can both deliver satisfying auditory feedback in the right setup.
Moving to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Blue is often noted for its tactile bump that is pronounced during actuation, providing clear physical feedback which many typists enjoy for its feedback during typing. Users typically describe this experience as engaging, making it a fantastic option for those who enjoy feeling each key press. On the other side, the WS Dash switches are recognized for their silky smooth keystroke, primarily attributed to their hall effect technology, which eliminates the traditional mechanical parts that can wear down over time. This smoothness allows users to glide effortlessly across the keyboard, offering a different experience that may appeal to those who prioritize a fluid typing action over tactile feedback.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Blue clicky switch offers a classic, tactile, and auditory experience perfect for traditionalists, the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch presents a modern alternative with its bright sound and exceptionally smooth keystroke. Your choice between them will ultimately depend on your typing preferences—whether you seek the engaging click of the Blue or the refined smoothness of the WS Dash. Both switches can yield enjoyable results in different contexts when paired with the right keyboard and keycap combinations.
Conclusion
To summarize, your choice between the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch primarily depends on your typing preferences and intended usage. If you enjoy a classic and tactile typing experience with a pronounced click sound that offers auditory feedback, the Outemu Blue is an excellent choice, particularly if you're a writer or programmer who appreciates the distinct acoustic feedback while typing. This switch is known for its light actuation and satisfying click, making it feel rewarding with each keystroke. On the other hand, if you seek a more refined experience, the WS Dash switch is an excellent alternative. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams, combined with the smooth and silky keystroke, offers a compelling blend of performance and comfort, especially if you value quieter operation with a still engaging sound signature. Additionally, the unique hall effect technology presents a futuristic typing experience that may appeal to enthusiasts looking for something different or to those who play games where precision and quick actuation are crucial. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize a traditional, clicky feel with the Outemu Blue or a smooth, innovative experience with the WS Dash.
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