Outemu Dustproof Red vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Red 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 Dustproof Red and the Wuque Studio WS Onion stand out as popular options to consider. The Dustproof Red switch is best known for its linear design, providing a smooth keystroke with no tactile bump or audible click. On the other hand, the WS Onion boasts a unique construction with a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a buttery smooth keystroke feel that is deeply satisfying. While the Dustproof Red offers a more traditional linear switch experience, the WS Onion provides a polished and refined typing experience. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
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
Both the Outemu Dustproof Red and the WS Onion have polycarbonate top housings, which results in a crisper sound profile and is ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, when it comes to their bottom housings, the Dustproof Red utilizes a nylon material that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the WS Onion also uses nylon which results in a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials may lead to a difference in typing experience and sound feedback between the two switches.
In terms of sound profile, the polycarbonate top housing of both the Outemu Dustproof Red and the WS Onion creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more resonant sound profile. However, the difference lies in their bottom housings, with the Dustproof Red's nylon bottom housing absorbing more sound and creating a deeper typing experience compared to the WS Onion's nylon bottom housing, which may result in a slightly different sound feedback when typing on the switches.
Overall, the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Red and the Wuque Studio WS Onion play a significant role in the sound profile and typing experience of these switches. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing that contributes to a crisper sound profile, the difference in their nylon bottom housings results in variations in sound depth and feedback. Whether it's the deeper and fuller sound of the Dustproof Red or the duller and rounder sound of the WS Onion, keyboard enthusiasts can choose between these switches based on their preferences for sound and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, we can see some noticeable differences. The Dustproof Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the WS Onion's unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the WS Onion is heavier at 63.5 grams compared to the Dustproof Red's 60 grams. This means that the WS Onion provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, while the Dustproof Red offers a lighter actuation force for a smoother typing experience. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, so users can expect similar results in terms of typing feel, but the WS Onion will provide a slightly heavier touch overall. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this regard. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel. While the travel distances are the same, it's worth noting that both switches may offer slightly different typing experiences due to other factors such as actuation force or sound profile. Overall, users can expect similar results in terms of travel distance when using either the Outemu Dustproof Red or the WS Onion linear switch.
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 Dustproof Red 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
When it comes to sound, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or advanced, and whether they are using the switches at home or in the office. This moderate sound profile ensures that typing on the WS Onions is not overly intrusive, making for a pleasant typing experience, especially when paired with the right keyboard and keycaps. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch is not available, so it may be best to test them out personally to determine how they sound in actual use.
In terms of feel, users describe the WS Onion linear switch as offering a buttery smooth keystroke experience, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation. This smooth and fluid feel enhances the overall typing experience, making it satisfying for extended periods of use. Additionally, the WS Onion's polished finish contributes to reduced friction and smooth key travel, resulting in a sleek typing experience. Conversely, there is no available information on the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, so users may need to try them out to ascertain how they feel in comparison to other switches.
Overall, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch stands out for its neutral sound profile that caters to a wide range of users, coupled with its buttery smooth keystroke feel that delivers a satisfying typing experience. With a combination of a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, these switches offer a premium feel that enhances the overall typing experience. While details about the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch are limited, users may expect similar results in terms of sound and feel, although personal testing may be necessary to fully understand their qualities. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to try them out to determine which one best suits your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, consider the bottom out force and your preference for sound and feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a switch with a neutral sound profile, the Dustproof Red may be the right choice for you. However, if you are seeking a slightly heavier bottom out force, a buttery smooth keystroke feel, and a polished finish for reduced friction, the WS Onion could be the better option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features and it's important to choose based on your personal typing preferences and needs.