Outemu Blue vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Outemu Blue, a clicky switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile, a tactile switch. The Outemu Blue switch is best known for its distinct clicky feedback. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch is praised for delivering a profound tactile experience with a 70g bump, immersive resistance, and captivating "thocky" sound from nylon housings. While the Blue switch offers a satisfying click sound, the WS Heavy Tactile switch provides a bouncy and sharp tactile feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
The housing materials of the Outemu Blue and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches offer distinct characteristics that affect the typing experience. The Blue's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile compared to the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound. This difference in sound profiles is a result of polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that produces a clear and resonant sound, while nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder tone.
In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Blue is translucent and ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects, giving it a visually appealing advantage over the WS Heavy Tactile's opaque nylon top housing. However, both switches share the same nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The split between the top and bottom housing materials means that the typing experience will be a combination of the sharper and clearer sound from the Blue's polycarbonate top housing and the deeper and fuller sound from the nylon bottom housing of both switches.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Blue and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile hinges on personal preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics. While the Blue offers a sharper and crisper sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing, the WS Heavy Tactile provides a deeper and fuller typing experience with its nylon top and bottom housing. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different user preferences, whether it's for a more resonant sound or a softer, more absorbent typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to individual preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
The Outemu Blue clicky switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch which has an actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the WS Heavy Tactile switch requires a heavier 70 grams compared to the Outemu Blue switch's unknown force. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the WS Heavy Tactile switch more comfortable for longer typing sessions, while those looking for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Outemu Blue switch. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on the actuation and bottom out forces, with the WS Heavy Tactile switch having a slightly lighter actuation force but a heavier bottom out force compared to the Outemu Blue switch.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, it is clear that the Blue has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the WS Heavy Tactile's 3.2 mm. The Blue switch offers a more traditional and deeper key press experience, which can be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key feel. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch provides a shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers looking for a faster response time. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their travel distance, but ultimately the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Blue 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
The Outemu Blue clicky switch is best known for its clicky sound and tactile feel, providing a satisfying typing experience for many users. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch is known for its deep "thocky" sound and pronounced tactile feedback with a 70g bump, offering a more immersive and engaging typing experience.
In terms of sound, the Blue switch produces a distinctive clicky sound, while the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound profile that is sharp and crisp. The choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference, as the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Blue switch does not have a specific feel descriptor provided, but it is generally known for its tactile feedback and audible click. The WS Heavy Tactile switch, on the other hand, is described as accented, bouncy, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, offering a tactile experience that is both responsive and engaging.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Blue switch offers a classic clicky experience, the WS Heavy Tactile switch provides a deep and immersive typing sensation with its pronounced tactility and "thocky" sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Blue clicky switch or the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you enjoy a clicky and tactile typing experience with a lighter actuation force, the Outemu Blue may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier actuation force with a deep tactile bump and a satisfying "thocky" sound, the WS Heavy Tactile switch may be more up your alley. Consider what type of sound and feel you prefer in a keyboard switch, as well as how much force you are comfortable with when typing for extended periods of time. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience based on your individual preferences.