Outemu Gold vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the Outemu Gold and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Gold and the Wuque Studio WS Red offer different typing experiences that cater to varying preferences. The Outemu Gold is a clicky switch, providing a tactile and audible feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the WS Red is a linear switch that offers a smooth key press without any tactile bump or audible click. While the Outemu Gold is great for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience, the WS Red is perfect for users looking for a quieter and smoother typing feel. 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
67g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Gold and the Wuque Studio WS Red both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Gold utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which results in a clear and resonant sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Red is equipped with a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate. While both materials have their own characteristics, the choice between them ultimately depends on the type of sound profile the user prefers.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Gold and WS Red feature nylon materials. This classic housing material provides a deep and full sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches equipped with nylon bottom housing. Despite the difference in top housing material between the two switches, their shared nylon bottom housing ensures a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. The qualities of the nylon material contribute to a consistent feel and sound when typing on keys equipped with either the Gold or WS Red switch.
While the top and bottom housing materials may vary between the Outemu Gold and the Wuque Studio WS Red, the impact of each material on the overall sound profile of the switches is significant. The separation of housing materials allows for a distinct feel when pressing down on a key, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches offer users a unique typing experience based on the combination of their top and bottom housing materials. Whether preferring a sharper, higher-pitched sound like the Gold's polycarbonate housing, or a deeper, fuller sound like the WS Red's nylon housing, users have the option to choose a switch that best suits their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it is evident that the Gold switch is lighter in terms of actuation force, requiring 45 grams to trigger a keystroke compared to the unknown force of the WS Red switch. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the WS Red switch is heavier, requiring 67 grams compared to the Gold switch's 60 grams. This means that the Gold switch offers a lighter typing experience, which may be preferred for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the WS Red switch provides a more substantial typing feel, which some users may find more satisfying. In the end, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Outemu Gold clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Gold being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the WS Red for its slightly quicker response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more satisfying key press may prefer the Outemu Gold for its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Gold comes in at $3.10, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Red comes in at $3.50.
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 clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch offer distinct profiles. The Outemu Gold switch is known for a crisp and audible click with each keystroke, providing a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the WS Red switch offers a quieter typing experience with a classic sound signature, thanks to its material blend. Both switches can be further influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps, affecting the overall sound produced during typing.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch also showcase different tactile attributes. The Outemu Gold switch is praised for its tactile bump and clicky feedback, enhancing the typing experience with each key press. In contrast, the WS Red switch features a smooth and linear actuation, delivering a consistent typing feel with a heavier actuation force. The WS Red switch provides a bouncy and responsive typing experience, adding a touch of weight to each keystroke for a satisfying and substantial feel.
Taking all available information into consideration, the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Outemu Gold switch provides a loud and tactile typing experience with a distinct click, while the WS Red switch offers a quieter and smoother typing feel with a heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. Whether you prefer a clicky and audible switch like the Outemu Gold or a smooth and bouncy switch like the WS Red, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience based on your individual preferences and needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force and a satisfying clicking sound, the Outemu Gold clicky switch would be a great option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force with a bouncy and responsive typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch would be the way to go. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for bottom out force, sound, and overall typing experience. Consider your typing style and preferences carefully before making your decision.
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