Outemu Red vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Red and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile offer distinct typing experiences. The Red switch is a linear switch known for its smooth keystrokes and quiet operation. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch by Wuque Studio is a tactile switch that provides a pronounced tactile bump with a 70g actuation force, delivering a satisfying and engaging typing experience. While the Red switch is ideal for those who prefer a quiet and linear typing feel, the WS Heavy Tactile switch is perfect for users who crave a tactile response and audible feedback while typing. 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
46g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.10 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Red and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches feature a top housing made of different materials, with the Red using polycarbonate and the WS Heavy Tactile using nylon. The polycarbonate top housing of the Red creates a sharp, high-pitched sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the WS Heavy Tactile produces a deeper and fuller sound. This difference in sound profile is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate versus the softness of nylon, with each material affecting the sound in its own unique way. Both switches utilize the unique properties of their respective housing materials to achieve distinct sound profiles.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Outemu Red and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches use nylon, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material between the two switches suggests that the typing experience may feel somewhat similar, with the bottom housing having a significant impact on the overall sound and feel of the switch. Despite differences in their top housing materials, the shared use of nylon for the bottom housing may lead to comparable typing experiences between the Red and the WS Heavy Tactile switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch can significantly impact the sound and feel of typing. The clear polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Red enhances its sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile offers a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches benefit from the unique acoustic properties of their housing materials, with polycarbonate creating a crisper sound and nylon producing a rounder sound. Despite these differences, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures a similar typing experience, with the material absorbing sound to create a distinct typing feel. Ultimately, the housing materials chosen for each switch contribute to their individual sound profiles and overall typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, we see some differences and similarities. The Outemu Red has a slightly higher actuation force of 46 grams compared to the WS Heavy Tactile's 45 grams, making the Red slightly heavier. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the WS Heavy Tactile requires a higher force of 70 grams compared to the Red's 62 grams, making the WS Heavy Tactile the heavier option overall. Both switches fall into the medium range for actuation force, but the WS Heavy Tactile leans towards the medium-heavy side for bottom out force. This means that the Outemu Red might be preferred for those who prefer a slightly lighter typing experience, while the WS Heavy Tactile would be more suitable for those who enjoy a firmer keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, as both offer different levels of actuation and bottom out force to cater to individual needs.
Travel distance
The Outemu Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance, providing a good balance between responsive feedback and key depth. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it ideal for those who prefer a quicker response time. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance for faster reaction times during intense gameplay. However, individuals who enjoy a more substantial key press may find the longer travel distance of the Outemu Red switch to be more satisfying. Both switches offer different travel distances, catering to a variety of preferences and needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Red comes in at $3.10, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile 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 Red switch is known for producing a sound that is typically described as moderately quiet with a subtle bottom-out noise. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch is known for its clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound profile. The WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a more immersive auditory experience with a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, thanks to its nylon housings. Ultimately, if you prefer a quieter typing experience, the Outemu Red switch would be the better choice, while the WS Heavy Tactile switch would be more suitable for those who enjoy a more engaging and pronounced sound while typing.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Red switch is typically described as smooth and linear, lacking any tactile bump or audible feedback. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch offers an invigorating and sharp tactile bump, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. Additionally, the WS Heavy Tactile switch is also known for its bouncy and snappy feel, offering a spring-like feedback sensation with moderate to firm actuation force. If you prefer a more tactile and responsive typing experience, the WS Heavy Tactile switch would be the better option over the Outemu Red switch.
Overall, the Outemu Red switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch offer distinct typing experiences in terms of both sound and feel. The Outemu Red switch is better suited for those who prefer a quieter and linear typing experience, while the WS Heavy Tactile switch is ideal for users seeking a more immersive and tactile typing experience with a pronounced sound profile. It's important to consider your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing style when choosing between these two switches to ensure a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and consistent typing experience with a medium bottom out force, you would want to choose the Outemu Red linear switch. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile and engaging typing experience with a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch would be the better choice. The WS Heavy Tactile switch is best known for its immersive tactile feedback and "thocky" sound, creating a satisfying typing experience. Keep in mind that the WS Heavy Tactile switch is described as clacky, high-pitched, resonant, accented, bouncy, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, providing a variety of tactile and auditory sensations for you to enjoy. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of feel, sound, and typing style.
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