Outemu Gold vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion
An in-depth look at the Outemu Gold and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Gold and the Wuque Studio WS Onion offer two distinct typing experiences. The Outemu Gold is a clicky switch, known for its tactile feedback and audible click sound, making it ideal for those who enjoy a satisfying typing experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the WS Onion from Wuque Studio is a linear switch, featuring a unique combination of polycarbonate and nylon materials that provide a smooth and buttery keystroke feel. While the Gold switch offers a traditional clicky typing experience, the WS Onion presents a more refined and polished feel with a neutral sound profile. 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
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
The Outemu Gold and the Wuque Studio WS Onion both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, both switches are aesthetically pleasing, especially when paired with RGB lighting, due to the translucency of polycarbonate. As a result, typing on either of these switches will provide a satisfying auditory experience with a clear and vibrant sound profile.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Outemu Gold and the WS Onion utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material that enhances the typing experience. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound that adds to the overall typing experience. Consequently, both switches offer a tactile and auditory experience that is enhanced by the qualities of the nylon bottom housing.
While the top and bottom housings of the Outemu Gold and WS Onion differ in material, the overall typing experience is still influenced by both components. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the nylon material. On the other hand, the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key, contributing to the sharp, higher-pitched sound profile characteristic of polycarbonate. Ultimately, both switches offer a balanced combination of housing materials that contribute to a satisfying typing experience with unique auditory qualities.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, some differences and similarities can be noted. The Outemu Gold has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the WS Onion has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Outemu Gold would be the preferable choice, allowing for comfortable typing over extended periods. On the other hand, the WS Onion provides a stronger push feel, making it suitable for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer a different feel and force requirement, catering to individual preferences and needs.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distance, it is clear that both switches provide a similar key press experience in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that whether you choose the Gold or the WS Onion switch, you can expect to get consistent results in terms of key travel distance. Overall, both switches offer a standard amount of travel distance, providing a familiar typing experience for users who prefer switches with a 4 mm 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 Gold 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 Outemu Gold switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, making it difficult to directly compare to the Wuque Studio WS Onion switch, which is known for its neutral sound profile. Both switches can provide a satisfactory typing experience, but the WS Onion may be more versatile in various environments due to its moderate sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Gold switch does not have a specific descriptor provided. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion switch is known for its buttery and polished feel, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. This difference in feel can greatly impact the typing experience for users, with the WS Onion providing a more fluid and polished feel compared to the unknown qualities of the Gold switch.
Taking into account the available information, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch seems to have a slight advantage over the Outemu Gold clicky switch in terms of sound and feel. With its neutral sound profile and buttery, polished feel, the WS Onion switch may provide a more enjoyable and versatile typing experience for newcomers to mechanical keyboards. However, individual preferences for clicky versus linear switches should also be considered when making a decision on which switch to use, as personal preference plays a significant role in keyboard switch selection.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between Outemu Gold clicky switches and Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switches, it's important to consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and are looking for a switch with a clicky sound profile, the Outemu Gold may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and prioritize a buttery smooth keystroke feel with a neutral sound profile, the WS Onion switches may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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