Outemu Silver vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silver and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silver and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl stand out as two distinct choices, both categorized as linear switches. The Outemu Silver, known for its straightforward design, offers a consistent and smooth keystroke experience that appeals to gamers and typists alike who prefer a reliable performance without tactile bump or audible click. On the other hand, the WS Pearl takes things a step further with its innovative use of ball bearings to minimize friction during keystrokes, resulting in an exceptionally smooth typing experience and a medium-high pitched sound signature that adds a unique auditory element. Both switches cater to different preferences: the Outemu Silver for those seeking simplicity and reliability, and the WS Pearl for enthusiasts who prioritize an exceptionally smooth feel. 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
30g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.60 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
16mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Silver and Wuque Studio WS Pearl present an intriguing comparison in housing materials, as they employ different types for their top housings but share the same material for their bottom housings. The Silver utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, a choice known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a clearer and more resonant sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also enhances aesthetic appeal, particularly for RGB lighting setups, as the light can pass through effectively, creating striking visual effects. In contrast, the WS Pearl opts for a nylon top housing, a material recognized for its ability to produce a deeper, rounder sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a distinctive auditory experience that differs significantly from the Silver’s crisper tones.
Despite their differences in top housing materials, the bottom housings of both switches are made of nylon, which brings a level of consistency to their sound profiles. As noted, both the Silver and WS Pearl benefit from the properties of nylon in their bottoms, leading to a fuller and deeper sound. The nylon bottom allows for a softer typing experience, significantly influencing the bottom-out sound when a key is fully pressed. This shared material ensures that both switches provide a certain warmth and depth to the auditory feedback that typists can expect, irrespective of the variations upstream in their top housing design.
Ultimately, the contrasting materials of the Outemu Silver and Wuque Studio WS Pearl offer distinct yet complementary auditory experiences. While the Silver's polycarbonate top housing delivers a crisp sound that shines under RGB lighting, the WS Pearl's nylon top creates a warmer and fuller typing sound. However, the nylon bottom housing in both cases unifies their sound characteristics, resulting in a rounded and satisfying keypress effect. Therefore, while each switch has its unique profile, the commonality of nylon below serves to create a shared auditory baseline, ensuring a gratifying typing experience, albeit with different tonal qualities based on the top housing's material.
Weight
The Outemu Silver linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch offer distinct actuation forces and bottom out forces that cater to different user preferences. The Outemu Silver has a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the WS Pearl features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, categorizing it as a medium switch. This means that the Silver requires more force to trigger a keystroke and to bottom out compared to the Pearl. As a result, users who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or extended gaming may find the WS Pearl more comfortable, while those who appreciate a stronger tactile feedback might favor the Outemu Silver for its more substantial push feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, it's clear that they differ significantly. The Outemu Silver has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional depth and is often preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the WS Pearl offers a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, aligning with the growing trend towards shorter switches that many gamers favor for quicker response times. Consequently, if responsiveness is your priority, the WS Pearl is the better choice due to its shorter travel distance. Conversely, those who appreciate a deeper key press might gravitate towards the Outemu Silver for its longer travel distance, which provides a more pronounced feedback. Overall, while both switches cater to different preferences, the Outemu Silver is the longer option, and the WS Pearl is the shorter.
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 Pearl comes in at $6.00.
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
The Outemu Silver linear switch does not have a renowned sound profile described in the information provided, which could mean it tends to maintain a relatively neutral character. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch features a medium-high pitched sound signature that stands out with an interesting tonal quality due to its unique design. The pearls' sound will be influenced by the choice of board and keycaps, but the inherent qualities of the switch suggest a sharper auditory experience compared to the more evasive sound of the Silver.
When it comes to the feel of each switch, the Outemu Silver linear switch does not boast any specific noteworthy qualities, making it challenging to gauge how it stands against competitors. In stark contrast, the WS Pearl switch is celebrated for its incredibly smooth keystrokes, attributed to the innovative use of ball-bearings that minimizes friction during actuation. This feature provides a tactile experience that many users find luxurious and engaging, enhancing the overall typing satisfaction.
In summary, while the Outemu Silver linear switch may offer a standard experience with an undefined sound and feel, the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch distinguishes itself with its unique sound and remarkable smoothness provided by ball-bearings. For those seeking a heightened auditory and tactile experience, the WS Pearl would be the preferred choice. Conversely, those who favor a more traditional linear switch might find the Silver adequate, though perhaps less rewarding in its attributes.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch will depend on your specific preferences and needs. If you favor a slightly heavier actuation force, which offers a more substantial feel during both typing and gaming, the Outemu Silver with its 65 grams bottom-out force may be the better option for you. It’s ideal if you like a switch that provides clear tactile feedback and a bit of resistance. On the other hand, if you're looking for a smooth and uniquely frictionless keystroke experience, the WS Pearl is an exceptional choice with its innovative ball-bearing design, allowing for an extraordinarily smooth typing sensation at a lower bottom-out force of 58 grams. Additionally, if sound is a consideration in your typing environment, the WS Pearl’s medium-high pitched sound signature offers a distinct auditory experience compared to the Silver. Thus, if you're prioritizing smoothness and a lighter feel, go for the WS Pearl; if you prefer a more tactile resistance and a heavier switch, choose the Outemu Silver. Ultimately, it's about aligning the switch characteristics with your personal typing style and preferences.
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