Outemu Silent Grey vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Grey and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent Grey and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile are both excellent options for those looking for a satisfying tactile typing experience. The Outemu Silent Grey switches are renowned for their quiet operation and pronounced tactile feedback, making them ideal for users who prefer a silent yet tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switches offer a smooth keystroke with a snappy tactile bump, creating a neutral sound signature that is perfect for those who want a balanced typing experience. Both switches are categorized as tactile, but the Silent Grey falls under a different category as it is not exactly specified. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Grey and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to polycarbonate's stiff nature. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. This similarity in top housing material suggests that users can expect a similar sound profile and aesthetic experience from both switches.
However, the differences arise in the nylon bottom housing of each switch. The Silent Grey's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile also features a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's sound-absorbing properties. This shared bottom housing material showcases the importance of the bottom housing in impacting the sound and feel of the switch during typing.
Overall, while the top housing of both the Outemu Silent Grey and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile is composed of polycarbonate, their differing bottom housing materials provide distinct sound profiles during typing. The Silent Grey's polycarbonate top housing contributes to a sharper sound while the nylon bottom housing adds depth, whereas the WS Light Tactile's combination of polycarbonate and nylon creates a similar sound experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and tactile feel during typing.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that the WS Light Tactile is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Silent Grey is on the heavier side with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the WS Light Tactile would be the more suitable choice. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may lean towards the Silent Grey. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces. If the actuation force and bottom out force are similar for both switches, users can expect to achieve a consistent typing experience regardless of which option they choose.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, they both provide a similar experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that whether you choose the Silent Grey or the WS Light Tactile, you can expect to get a consistent travel distance when pressing down on the keys. So, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer the same level of performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Silent Grey comes in at $3.10, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Light 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Silent Grey switch is known for providing a quiet typing experience, while the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various uses. The Silent Grey switch remains silent with a smooth keystroke, whereas the WS Light Tactile switch maintains a moderate sound profile that is not too loud or too quiet. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Silent Grey switch offers a highly tactile experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch is described as stepped, providing a tactile sensation with two stages in the keystroke. Additionally, the WS Light Tactile switch is easy-to-press, requiring minimal force for activation, making typing effortless and comfortable for extended periods. This contrasts with the Silent Grey switch, which offers a more traditional tactile typing experience.
Overall, while the Outemu Silent Grey and Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches offer different sound profiles, the key factor in choosing between them comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a quiet typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump, the Silent Grey switch may be more suitable for you. However, if you prefer a switch with a neutral sound profile and a stepped tactile feel that is easy to press, then the WS Light Tactile switch could be the better option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a quiet and highly tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Outemu Silent Grey switches would be your best choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a light tactile switch with a lower bottom out force and a neutral sound signature, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches would suit you better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel and sound, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences.
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