Outemu Purple vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the Outemu Purple and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Purple and the Wuque Studio WS Red are two popular options to consider. The Purple is a tactile switch, offering a precise and satisfying feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the WS Red is a linear switch, providing a smooth and consistent typing experience with a heavier actuation force for added weight to each key press. While the Purple is praised for its tactile feedback, the WS Red stands out for its bouncy and responsive 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
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
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 Purple and the Wuque Studio WS Red both feature nylon bottom housings, which are known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to their softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to housings made of stiffer plastics. However, the top housings of these switches differ, with the Purple utilizing polycarbonate for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a translucent material that is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting, while the WS Red's nylon top housing offers a classic switch housing material with a deeper and fuller sound.
While both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, the differences in their top housings significantly impact the sound profile and feel of typing on these switches. The polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Purple creates a more resonant and clear sound, with a sharper pitch, while the nylon top housing of the WS Red provides a deeper and fuller sound. These differences in material lead to distinct typing experiences, catering to different preferences in sound and feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for either a crisper, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, fuller one.
In terms of sound production and typing experience, the bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has more impact on the sound when releasing a key. This means that the qualities of nylon's absorption of sound and softer composition will be more noticeable when pressing down on switches with nylon bottom housings. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Purple will contribute to the sound profile heard when releasing keys. Understanding the influence of each housing material on the overall typing experience can help users choose a switch that aligns with their preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing satisfaction.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it is evident that they have significant differences. The Outemu Purple requires 50 grams of force to actuate a keystroke, while the actuation force of the WS Red is not specified. However, the WS Red has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch compared to the Purple's unknown bottom out force. In terms of weight, the Purple is lighter in terms of actuation force, which may appeal to those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods. On the other hand, the WS Red offers a heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Purple tactile 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 range of traditional travel distances, with the Purple being slightly longer. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the WS Red a popular choice. However, some may find the shorter travel distance to feel abrupt, and may prefer the deeper travel of the Outemu Purple for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Purple 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
The Outemu Purple tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel. The Purple switch is known for its unique characteristics, while the WS Red switch boasts a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force. When it comes to sound, the Purple switch offers a mysterious quality, while the WS Red switch retains a familiar sound signature due to its classic material blend. The feel of the Purple switch is not specified, but the WS Red switch provides a satisfying and substantial typing feel with its heavier actuation force. In conclusion, these switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, providing a range of options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. With the Purple switch offering a mysterious quality and the WS Red switch providing a bouncy and responsive typing experience, users can expect unique and satisfying typing experiences from both switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a light and smooth typing experience with a tactile bump for feedback, the Purple switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy and responsive typing feel with a heavier actuation force, the WS Red switch with its unique double-stage spring design could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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