Outemu Dustproof Black vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often consider two popular options: the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Wuque Studio WS POM+. The Dustproof Black is a linear switch known for its sturdiness and reliability, making it a solid choice for users who prefer a consistent keystroke without tactile feedback. On the other hand, the WS POM+ is celebrated for delivering an exceptional typing experience, characterized by a deep, satisfying "thock" sound and a buttery-smooth keystroke, thanks to its all-POM construction. While the Outemu Dustproof Black offers durability and a straightforward typing feel, the WS POM+ focuses on acoustic pleasure and a refined tactile experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Dustproof Black and Wuque Studio WS POM+ exhibit fundamental differences in their top housing materials, which considerably affect their sound profiles. The Dustproof Black features a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for its sharp and crisper sound profile attributable to the stiffness of the material. Polycarbonate’s translucency makes it particularly suitable for RGB setups, enhancing aesthetic appeal while delivering a bright, resonant sound. In contrast, the WS POM+ employs a POM top housing, which produces a deeper, more muted sound profile. This signifies that while the Dustproof Black might be preferable for those seeking a more aggressive auditory feedback, the WS POM+ caters to users who appreciate a more subdued and rich sound experience.
Turning to the bottom housing, both switches differentiate their sound profiles yet again. The Dustproof Black's nylon bottom housing is celebrated for creating a fuller depth in sound. Because nylon is a softer plastic, it absorbs sound waves more effectively, yielding a rounder and more dulcet auditory response. Conversely, the WS POM+ features a POM bottom housing, which also provides a pleasing and muted sound profile. Despite their differing materials, both bottom housings create sounds that emphasize warmth and depth. This shared attribute highlights the notion that even with different materials, both switches can achieve satisfying results through their design and construction.
Ultimately, the interplay between the materials used in both the top and bottom housings of each switch is crucial in shaping the overall user experience. In the case of the Dustproof Black, the impact of the sharper top housing is complemented by the deeper, fuller bottom housing, resulting in a dynamic auditory experience. Conversely, the WS POM+, while united by its use of POM in both housing sections, offers a consistently deep and muffled sound that resonates well with users leaning toward a muted auditory feedback. Therefore, though their approaches to sound differ, it's clear that each switch provides unique benefits through their material choices, ensuring varied yet fulfilling typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Dustproof Black features a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, making it a choice for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the WS POM+ offers a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, catering to users who favor a softer feel which can be beneficial for extended typing or gaming sessions. Therefore, those who prioritize a substantial push feel should opt for the Dustproof Black, while those looking for a lighter touch will find the WS POM+ more suitable. As a result, the Dustproof Black is the heavier switch overall, whereas the WS POM+ is the lighter option.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, it is clear that the Dustproof Black has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS POM+ measures 3.6 mm. This difference of 0.4 mm illustrates how the Dustproof Black may provide a more substantial depth to the keypress, which some users might prefer for a more tactile and hearty feel. In contrast, the WS POM+, with its shorter distance, can potentially offer faster response times that gamers may seek for a more responsive experience. Ultimately, those who favor a deeper keystroke might gravitate towards the Dustproof Black, whereas those who appreciate a quick and light touch may find the WS POM+ more appealing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Dustproof Black comes in at $3.10, whereas the Wuque Studio WS POM+ comes in at $3.90.
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 sound produced by the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch is characterized as subdued and relatively quiet, making it suitable for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switch offers a more pronounced auditory experience, delivering a deep, satisfying "thock" sound signature. Users typically find that the combination of the all-POM construction and the switch's design contributes to this rich sound profile, making typing an enjoyable auditory experience.
Regarding feel, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch lacks notable feedback, resulting in a smooth keypress that some users may find less engaging compared to other switches. In contrast, the WS POM+ leverages its materials and construction to provide a buttery-smooth keystroke, offering a tactile sensation that enhances the typing experience. This smoothness can make for a more enjoyable and responsive feel during long typing sessions.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch offers a quieter typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ excels in providing a richer sound profile and a more satisfying tactile feel. If you're seeking a switch that minimizes distraction with a gentle sound, the Dustproof Black is a reliable choice. However, if you’re looking for an engaging and enjoyable typing experience, the WS POM+ is likely to deliver an unmatched performance with its unique auditory and tactile qualities. Both options serve different preferences and environments, making them worthy contenders in the mechanical keyboard space.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a heavier switch that requires more force to press down, making it ideal for more deliberate typing or gaming where you want to avoid accidental keystrokes, the Dustproof Black, with its 80-gram bottom out force, may be the better option for you. However, keep in mind that this heavier switch may not be as comfortable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch that provides a smoother and more satisfying typing experience with a lighter feel, the WS POM+, which has a medium-light 55-gram bottom out force, might suit your needs better. This switch is particularly appealing if you enjoy a deeper "thock" sound and a buttery smooth keystroke, making it excellent for both typing and casual gaming. In essence, consider how you type and what sensory feedback you desire, and let that guide your choice between these two excellent options.