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Outemu Dustproof Red vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile

An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Red and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, it's important to consider your typing preferences and needs. The Outemu Dustproof Red is a linear switch that is best known for its smoothness. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile is a tactile switch that stands out for its smoothness, featuring a snappy and perceptible tactile bump, as well as its neutral sound signature. The Dustproof Red is categorized as smooth, while the WS Light Tactile falls under stepped, neutral, and easy-to-press. If you prefer a linear feel with no tactile feedback, the Dustproof Red may be the way to go. However, if you appreciate a tactile bump for a more responsive typing experience, the WS Light Tactile would be a great choice. Let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can make the best decision on the switch for you.

By the numbers

Technical specifications

Actuation force

45g

Actuation force

45g

Bottom-out force

60g

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

When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Red and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is perfect for showcasing RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, they differ in their bottom housing composition. The Dustproof Red features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile also uses a nylon bottom housing, providing similar sound characteristics to the Dustproof Red.

Despite their similarities in top and bottom housing materials, the differences in feel and sound between the Dustproof Red and WS Light Tactile can be attributed to how these materials interact with each other within the switches. When typing on the Dustproof Red, the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel is influenced by the nylon bottom housing, while the polycarbonate top housing affects the sound upon key release. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile offers a similar tactile typing experience, with the nylon bottom housing playing a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch. Therefore, while both switches may share the same housing materials, the way these materials work together within the switches creates unique typing experiences for users.

In summary, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a crucial role in the overall typing experience. Both the Outemu Dustproof Red and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile exhibit the benefits of utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a clearer and more resonant sound profile. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience due to its softer nature. While the housing materials may be the same for both switches, their individual design and construction result in subtle differences in typing feel and sound characteristics, providing users with options to tailor their mechanical keyboard experience to their preferences.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, it is clear that the WS Light Tactile is the lighter of the two. Both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally sensitive to touch. However, the Dustproof Red has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the WS Light Tactile's 50 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. While both switches offer a similar actuation force, the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of weight and typing experience.

Travel distance

Both the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting their travel distance, it can be said that both switches offer a consistent and standard distance for users to feel while typing. This means that whether you choose the Dustproof Red or the WS Light Tactile switch, you can expect similar results in terms of key travel distance. Additionally, the equal travel distance of 4 mm ensures that users will have a familiar and comfortable typing experience with either switch.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

For 10 switches, the Outemu Dustproof Red 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 Red and WS Light Tactile switches offer different auditory experiences. The Dustproof Red's sound profile is unknown, while the WS Light Tactile switch is known for its neutral sound signature. A neutral sound profile means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level, making it suitable for a variety of users and environments. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can vary depending on other factors like the keyboard's build and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Dustproof Red's tactile sensation is unspecified, while the WS Light Tactile switch is described as stepped and easy-to-press. The stepped feel of the WS Light Tactile switch means it has a two-stage tactile bump, offering a more subtle tactile feedback compared to hyper-tactile switches. Additionally, being easy-to-press implies that these switches have a light actuation force, making typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. This combination of features provides a responsive and low-impact typing experience for users.

In conclusion, the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Dustproof Red's sound and feel characteristics remain unknown, the WS Light Tactile switch is praised for its neutral sound signature and gentle, easy-to-press tactile feedback. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique experiences that cater to different typing styles and preferences. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, consider your preference for key feel and sound profile. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a neutral sound signature, the Dustproof Red may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a noticeable tactile bump, and an easy-to-press feel, the WS Light Tactile switch would be a great choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences to ensure a satisfying typing experience.

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