Outemu Silver vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silver 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 Silver and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile stand out as popular choices for different reasons. The Outemu Silver is a linear switch, known for its smooth travel and consistent feel, making it ideal for fast typists and gamers looking for quick actuation. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile by Wuque Studio is a tactile switch, celebrated for its 70g bump, immersive resistance, and unique "thocky" sound that provides a satisfying typing experience. While the Silver offers a straightforward and reliable typing experience, the WS Heavy Tactile caters to those seeking a more pronounced tactile feedback. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.60 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silver and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile, we can see that both switches feature nylon bottom housings. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with stiffer plastic bottom housings. However, while the bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall sound profile of a switch, the differences in the top housing between the two switches may lead to distinct sound characteristics.
The Outemu Silver utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate plastic leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches where a bright and lively sound is desired. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that is preferred by some users for its more muted tones compared to polycarbonate.
While both switches share a nylon bottom housing, the differences in their top housings will impact the overall sound and feel of typing on each switch. The Outemu Silver with its polycarbonate top housing will provide a sharper and crisper sound when a key is released, while the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile with its nylon top housing will offer a deeper and fuller sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on the sound characteristics desired by the user, with the polycarbonate top housing of the Silver creating a brighter sound and the nylon top housing of the WS Heavy Tactile offering a more muted tone.
Weight
The Outemu Silver linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of initial keystroke pressure. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Silver requires 65 grams, while the WS Heavy Tactile requires 70 grams, making the latter slightly heavier. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Silver switch may be the preferred choice, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch would be better suited for those who appreciate a more substantial push feel while typing, providing a firmer typing experience overall. Both switches offer a medium-heavy resistance, but the slight difference in bottom out force may influence the decision for users who have a preference for either lighter or heavier key presses.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it slightly longer than the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. This means that the Silver switch will provide a bit more depth and cushion when pressed compared to the WS Heavy Tactile switch. Gamers looking for faster response times might prefer the shorter travel distance of the WS Heavy Tactile switch, while those who enjoy a more robust keypress experience may opt for the longer travel distance of the Outemu Silver switch. Both switches offer unique travel distances that cater to different preferences, allowing users to tailor their typing or gaming experience to their liking.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Silver 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Silver linear switch is known for having a neutral sound profile, meaning it does not produce a distinct sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch is described as producing a "clacky", high-pitched, and resonant sound when activated. This results in a more lively and engaging auditory experience for the user, adding a satisfying element to typing sessions.
Moving on to the feel aspect, the Outemu Silver switch does not have a specific feel descriptor available. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch is characterized as being accented, bouncy, invigorating, sharp, and snappy. These qualities translate to a switch that provides a noticeable tactile bump, spring-like feedback, and a consistent and responsive feel with each keypress. This results in a more dynamic and immersive typing experience for users who prefer a tactile response.
In conclusion, the Outemu Silver linear switch and Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel. While the Silver switch provides a neutral sound experience and a undefined feel, the WS Heavy Tactile switch delivers a clacky and resonant sound profile along with a bouncy, sharp, and snappy tactile feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, users can choose between these switches to tailor their mechanical keyboard setup to their liking.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Silver linear switch or the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and a linear switch with no specific distinguishing features, the Silver may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a profound tactile experience with a 70g bump, immersive resistance, and a "thocky" sound accompanied by a variety of tactile descriptors like accented, bouncy, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, then the WS Heavy Tactile switch may be more suitable for your needs. Consider how you value sound, feel, and overall typing experience when making your decision, and remember that the best switch for you is the one that enhances your typing experience and suits your preferences the most.
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