Outemu Tom vs. Wuque Studio WS Brown
An in-depth look at the Outemu Tom and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Tom, a tactile switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Brown, also a tactile switch. The Tom is best known for None, while the WS Brown switches are praised for their harmonious blend of familiarity and innovation. The WS Brown switches offer a medium-light actuation force, striking a balance between responsiveness and comfort for fatigue-free typing sessions. On the other hand, the Tom switches do not have a specific standout feature. Both switches offer a unique typing experience with their tactile feedback, but as with any keyboard component, the choice ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. 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
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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 Tom and the Wuque Studio WS Brown both utilize nylon for their bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with stiffer plastic bottom housings. However, when it comes to the top housing, the Tom features a polycarbonate material while the WS Brown uses nylon. Polycarbonate creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffness, whereas the nylon top housing of the WS Brown produces a deeper and fuller sound with a softer and more absorbent quality.
In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Tom allows for RGB lighting to shine through due to its translucency, adding a visually pleasing element to the switch. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Wuque Studio WS Brown may not offer the same level of light transmission, but it provides a classic and durable switch housing material that contributes to the switch's overall sound profile. Both switches offer unique sound experiences depending on the combination of housing materials used, catering to different preferences for typing feel and sound.
Overall, while the Outemu Tom and the Wuque Studio WS Brown have different top housing materials, they both leverage nylon for their bottom housing to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a nuanced typing experience, with the qualities of each material being felt and heard in different ways throughout the keystroke. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to individual preferences in keyboard typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Tom and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switches, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Tom has an actuation force of 55 grams, requiring a moderate amount of pressure to trigger a keystroke, while the WS Brown's actuation force remains unknown. On the other hand, the WS Brown has a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a medium-light typing experience when pressing all the way down. In contrast, the Tom's bottom out force is unavailable, making it difficult to determine the exact amount of pressure required for a full keystroke. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Tom due to its lower actuation force, allowing for extended typing sessions with less fatigue. Alternatively, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may find the WS Brown more appealing with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch which has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Tom offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter distance, which may be favored by gamers looking for a fast and efficient keystroke. On the other hand, the WS Brown provides a bit more depth and feedback with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a more pronounced key press. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular today, catering to different preferences and needs. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a shorter, quicker response or a longer, more tactile keystroke experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Tom comes in at $3.10, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Brown 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 Tom tactile switch is known for its pleasant and familiar auditory experience due to its unique housing and stem combination. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch also offers a delightful sound that enthusiasts cherish, with a harmonious blend of familiarity and innovation. The sound of both switches will ultimately depend on other factors such as the keyboard's setup, keycaps, and plate material.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Tom tactile switch offers a specific feeling that is currently unknown. Meanwhile, the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch strikes a harmonious balance between responsiveness and comfort, providing a fatigue-free typing experience during long sessions. As for the specific tactile feeling of each switch, it is important to consider personal preference and the typing experience desired by the user.
Overall, both the Outemu Tom and Wuque Studio WS Brown switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. While the Tom switch may offer a distinct auditory experience, the WS Brown switch prioritizes a balance between comfort and responsiveness during typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences and the typing experience desired by the user, with both switches offering a satisfying tactile typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a light actuation force and a harmonious balance between responsiveness and comfort, the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. These switches are designed to provide a fatigue-free typing experience during extended sessions, and their familiar auditory experience is cherished by enthusiasts. On the other hand, if you prioritize a specific feature of the Outemu Tom tactile switch that is not listed here, that may be the better option for you. Ultimately, it really depends on your personal preferences and typing needs when deciding between these two switches.
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