Outemu Blue vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Blue, a clicky switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Onion, a linear switch, offer distinct typing experiences. The Outemu Blue switch is best known for its satisfying click sound and tactile feedback, making it a popular choice among typists who enjoy audible feedback while typing. On the other hand, the WS Onion switch from Wuque Studio stands out for its buttery smooth keystroke feel and neutral sound profile, providing a polished typing experience. While the Blue switch is ideal for those who prefer a clicky and tactile typing experience, the WS Onion switch is perfect for users looking for a smooth and quiet keystroke. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
WS CL635 Gold Plated Stainless Spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Outemu Blue and the Wuque Studio WS Onion, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to incorporate RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this material for their top housings, the bottom housings differ. The Blue utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics.
On the other hand, the WS Onion also features a polycarbonate top housing for a similar sound profile, but pairs it with a nylon bottom housing, creating a different typing experience. The use of nylon in the bottom housing absorbs sound differently, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the Blue's nylon bottom housing. This contrast in bottom housing materials leads to variations in the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches. While both switches incorporate polycarbonate for their top housings, the choice of bottom housing material plays a crucial role in shaping the typing experience for users.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Blue and the Wuque Studio WS Onion will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing feel. Both switches offer a unique combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound profile with the Blue's nylon bottom housing or a deeper, fuller sound with the WS Onion's nylon bottom housing, each switch provides a different typing experience that caters to individual preferences. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches offer high-quality components that can enhance your typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Blue clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the WS Onion has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams compared to the Outemu Blue, which has an unknown bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Outemu Blue may be more suitable, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the WS Onion may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience, as it has a heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer different benefits based on individual preferences, with the Outemu Blue being lighter and the WS Onion being heavier in terms of bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent distance of travel from the top to the bottom. In terms of comparing and contrasting the two switches, their travel distances being equal results in a similar typing experience in this particular aspect. Consequently, there is no noticeable difference in the travel distance between the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch. Therefore, users can expect similar results when using either of these switches in terms of keypress feel and travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Wuque Studio WS Onion has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Onion for $5.53.
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
In terms of sound, the comparison between the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch reveals contrasting characteristics. The Blue switch is often associated with a loud and distinct clicking sound, making it ideal for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the WS Onion switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, which means it produces a moderate sound suitable for various environments and preferences. Ultimately, the sound produced by a switch is influenced by factors such as the keyboard build and keycap material.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch offer different tactile experiences. The Blue switch is known for providing a tactile bump and audible click during actuation, giving typists a satisfying and responsive feel. In contrast, the WS Onion switch is praised for its buttery smooth keystroke feel, offering a seamless and effortless typing experience. Additionally, the WS Onion switch is noted for its polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Blue switch is favored for its loud clicking sound and tactile feedback, the WS Onion switch stands out for its neutral sound profile and buttery smooth keystroke feel. Depending on individual preferences and typing style, either switch can provide a unique and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you enjoy a satisfying clicky sound and a tactile typing experience with light actuation force, the Outemu Blue switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, buttery keystroke feel with a medium-heavy actuation force and a neutral sound profile, the Wuque Studio WS Onion switch is worth considering. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for.
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