Outemu Red vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red 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 Red and the Wuque Studio WS Red both offer a linear typing experience. The Outemu Red switch is best known for its smooth keystrokes, making it a popular choice for gamers and typists looking for quick and consistent keypresses. On the other hand, the WS Red switch stands out with its 22mm double-stage spring, providing a bouncy and responsive typing experience that adds a touch of weight to each keystroke. While the Outemu Red offers a traditional linear feel, the WS Red switch introduces a unique typing experience with its heavier actuation force. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.10 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 Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile compared to the WS Red's nylon top housing which elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate leads to a clear and resonant sound, while the softness of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller sound. In terms of aesthetics, polycarbonate's translucency is ideal for RGB lighting, while nylon is a classic switch housing material known for its durability.
Both the Red and the WS Red have nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softness and sound absorption capabilities. However, the top housing material differs between the two switches, with the Red using polycarbonate for a crisper sound profile, while the WS Red's nylon top housing produces a rounder sound. This distinction in housing materials impacts the overall sound experience when typing on the switches, with the qualities of each material evident in the bottom-out and release sounds.
In essence, the choice between the Outemu Red and the WS Red comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing of the Red creates a sharper, more resonant sound, while the nylon top housing of the WS Red offers a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a similar deeper sound profile. Whether you prefer a crisper sound with the polycarbonate top housing or a rounder sound with the nylon top housing, each switch offers a unique typing experience based on the material composition of its housing components.
Weight
The Outemu Red linear switch is on the lighter side with an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch is slightly heavier with a bottom out force of 67 grams. While the actuation force for the WS Red is unknown, it is safe to assume that since the bottom out force is higher, the actuation force would likely be higher as well compared to the Outemu Red. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Outemu Red switch, while those who prefer a bit more resistance may opt for the WS Red switch for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer a medium to medium-heavy feel, providing a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Outemu Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the WS Red linear switch is slightly shorter in terms of travel distance compared to the Outemu Red linear switch. Despite the small difference of 0.2 mm, this could still potentially impact the typing experience for some users. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the WS Red switch, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes may lean towards the Outemu Red switch. Both switches, however, fall within the range of traditional travel distances and would likely deliver similar results in terms of overall typing feel.
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 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, both the Outemu Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch offer a quiet typing experience. The Outemu Red switch is known for its subtle sound profile, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a quieter keyboard. On the other hand, the WS Red switch, with its double-stage spring, provides a slightly more tactile experience with a bouncier feel, while still maintaining a familiar and classic sound signature. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Red switch is known for its smooth and consistent keystrokes, providing a linear and straightforward typing experience. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Red switch offers a heavier actuation force, adding a touch of weight to each keystroke. This results in a more substantial and satisfying typing feel, making it a great choice for those who prefer a bit more resistance in their switches.
Overall, both the Outemu Red and Wuque Studio WS Red linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Outemu Red switch is ideal for those looking for a quiet and smooth typing experience, the WS Red switch provides a more tactile and bouncy typing feel with a slightly heavier actuation force. Depending on individual preferences, both switches can offer a satisfying typing experience, each catering to different typing styles and preferences.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Outemu Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a medium bottom out force, the Outemu Red would be a suitable choice with its 62g force. However, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience, the WS Red with its 67g force would be the better option. Additionally, if you value a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a touch of weight to each keystroke, the WS Red's 22mm double-stage spring may be more appealing to you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific feel and sound you desire in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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