Outemu Red vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Red, a linear switch, to the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile, a tactile switch, there are distinct differences in their key features. The Red switch is best known for its simplicity and smooth keystrokes, making it ideal for gamers and typists who prefer a consistent linear feel. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile switch by Wuque Studio is renowned for its innovative design, offering a medium tactility that is perfect for office environments. With its precision-engineered stem railings and absence of silicone dampeners, the WS Silent Tactile switch provides a quiet yet tactile typing experience unlike any other. Both switches have their own merits, but when it comes to choosing between them, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and specific needs. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.10 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Red and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches feature nylon bottom housings, which elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softness of the material. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. However, the top housing material differs between the two switches, with the Red using polycarbonate and the WS Silent Tactile using nylon. The polycarbonate top housing of the Red creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, ideal for switches with RGB lighting, while the nylon top housing of the WS Silent Tactile absorbs more sound and provides a deeper sound profile.
In terms of aesthetics and sound profile, the polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Red offers a clearer and resonant sound compared to the nylon top housing of the WS Silent Tactile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to its sharp and crisp sound profile, making it a popular choice for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the softer nylon top housing of the WS Silent Tactile generates a rounder and duller sound, emphasizing depth and fullness during typing. Both switches use nylon bottom housings, which further enhance the fuller sound profile experienced during use, highlighting the impact each housing material has on the overall typing experience.
Overall, while the Outemu Red and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches both offer unique sound profiles due to their housing materials, the differences lie in the specific qualities each material brings to the typing experience. The use of polycarbonate in the Red provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, particularly suited for switches with RGB lighting, while the nylon top and bottom housings of the WS Silent Tactile create a deeper and fuller sound. Whether choosing a switch for its aesthetics, sound profile, or overall typing experience, understanding the impact of housing materials can help users make an informed decision based on their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that the Red has a lighter actuation force at 46 grams compared to the WS Silent Tactile's unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the WS Silent Tactile is heavier at 63.5 grams compared to the Red's 62 grams. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range of force. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Outemu Red for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the WS Silent Tactile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, it is clear that the Red has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the WS Silent Tactile's 3.5 mm. The Red provides a slightly deeper press compared to the WS Silent Tactile, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial key press. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a favorable choice for those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their preferences.
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 Silent Tactile comes in at $4.20.
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 linear switch is known for being relatively quiet, making it suitable for situations where noise level is a concern. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch offers a muted sound profile, making it even quieter than traditional silent switches without compromising on tactile feedback. The unique stem railings in the WS Silent Tactile switches contribute to this superior noise reduction while still providing a crisp typing experience. While the sound of a switch also depends on factors like the keyboard and keycaps, the WS Silent Tactile switch is designed to offer a tranquil typing experience with minimal noise disturbance.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Red switch is known for its linear and smooth keystrokes, lacking the tactile bump that some users prefer for added feedback. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch provides a medium level of tactility without being overly pronounced. Described as accented, invigorating, and mild, these switches offer a balance between tactile feedback and smooth keystrokes, creating an engaging typing sensation without being too harsh or too subtle. This makes the WS Silent Tactile switch suitable for a wide range of users looking for a tactile typing experience without the excessive noise.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel, they both provide a unique typing experience tailored to different preferences. The Red switch is ideal for those seeking a quieter typing experience without tactile feedback, while the WS Silent Tactile switch caters to users who value both a quiet operation and a medium level of tactility. Whether you choose the Red for its smooth keystrokes or the WS Silent Tactile for its innovative design, both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience based on your individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prioritize a light bottom out force and a smooth typing experience without any tactile feedback, the Outemu Red switch would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a slightly higher bottom out force, superior noise reduction, and a medium level of tactility, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch would suit your needs, especially in office environments where noise reduction is essential. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, noise level, and bottom out force requirements.
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