Outemu Dustproof Purple vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile are two popular options that offer distinct features for different preferences. The Dustproof Purple is a clicky switch that is best known for its satisfying audible feedback with each key press. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile is a tactile switch that offers a smooth and tactile bump without the loud clicking noise. While the Dustproof Purple may be preferred for its clicky sound and precise typing experience, the WS Light Tactile is favored for its smoothness, tactile bump, and quiet operation. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
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
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile lies in their housing materials. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This makes them ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for light to shine through. In contrast, the Dustproof Purple and the WS Light Tactile utilize different materials for their bottom housing. The Dustproof Purple boasts a nylon bottom housing, which typically results in a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound, while the WS Light Tactile also has a nylon bottom housing for a similar effect.
The distinct housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile influence the overall sound and feel of the switches. While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound, their nylon bottom housings provide different tactile experiences. The nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Purple creates a duller and rounder sound profile, enhancing the typing experience with a deeper sound. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing also offers a deeper and fuller sound but absorbs sound in a slightly different manner, resulting in a unique tactile feel. These differences in the bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience for users.
In summary, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of the typing experience. The Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile showcase the effects of using different materials for both the top and bottom housings. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing for a crisp sound, their nylon bottom housings create distinct typing experiences. Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in a switch determines its overall sound profile, key feel, and aesthetic appeal.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch differ in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Dustproof Purple has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a higher bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy in comparison to the WS Light Tactile with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is considered light. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the WS Light Tactile for longer typing or gaming sessions, while users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Dustproof Purple. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, despite having the same travel distance, they offer different typing experiences. The Dustproof Purple clicky switch provides a satisfying clicky feedback while the WS Light Tactile switch offers a light tactile bump. Both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience, but the Dustproof Purple clicky switch may be preferred by those who enjoy a clicky sound, while the WS Light Tactile switch may be preferred by those who prefer a smoother tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Dustproof Purple comes in at $3.10, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile 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 Dustproof Purple switch does not have a specific reputation within the community. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch is known for its neutral sound signature. This means that the WS Light Tactile switch has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by other components of your keyboard setup, such as the case and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Dustproof Purple switch does not have a defined characteristic that sets it apart. Conversely, the WS Light Tactile switch is known for its stepped feel. This means that the switch has a tactile bump that feels like it has two stages, providing feedback throughout the keystroke. Additionally, the WS Light Tactile switch is described as easy-to-press, offering minimal resistance during key presses and reducing finger fatigue during extended use. This results in a responsive and comfortable typing experience for users.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch offer different qualities to users. The Dustproof Purple switch lacks specific characteristics in sound and feel, while the WS Light Tactile switch is known for its neutral sound profile and stepped tactile feel that is easy-to-press. Depending on your preferences for sound and typing experience, you can achieve different results with these two switches. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, consider the factors that best match your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a clicky switch without a specific standout feature, the Dustproof Purple may be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and value a smooth, tactile bump with a neutral sound profile, the WS Light Tactile switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and actuation force.
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