Outemu Tom vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Outemu Tom and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Tom and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile are two popular options to consider. The Tom switch is best known for being linear. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch from Wuque Studio is renowned for delivering a profound tactile experience with a 70g bump, immersive resistance, and captivating thocky sound from nylon housings, providing an engaging and satisfying typing experience. While both switches are tactile, the WS Heavy Tactile stands out for its accented, bouncy, clacky, high-pitched, invigorating, resonant, sharp, and snappy qualities. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style; however, let's delve 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.20 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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Tom and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile, both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This similarity means that when typing on either switch, users can expect a similar tactile experience in terms of sound. However, where they differ is in their top housing materials. The Tom utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, ideal for those looking for a more resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound, perfect for users who prefer a softer typing sound.
When it comes to the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, the split between the bottom and top housing materials is crucial. The bottom housing of both switches, being nylon, will affect the bottom-out sound and feel when the keys are pressed. This means that users can expect a consistent deep and full sound when pressing down on keys on either switch. Conversely, the top housing will have more influence on the sound when the keys are released, with the Tom's polycarbonate top housing producing a sharper sound upon key release, while the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon top housing creating a more subdued sound upon key release.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Tom and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile ultimately comes down to personal preference in typing sound profile. If you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound, the Tom with its polycarbonate top housing would be the better option. However, if you lean towards a deeper and fuller sound with a softer touch, the WS Heavy Tactile with its nylon housing would be more suitable. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their housing materials, allowing users to customize their typing sound to fit their preferences.
Weight
The Outemu Tom tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch with a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the WS Heavy Tactile switch has a heavier force of 70 grams, while the bottom out force for the Tom switch is unknown. This means that the WS Heavy Tactile switch provides a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force. Weight is a crucial factor to consider when choosing between these switches as a lighter actuation force is preferred for prolonged typing sessions, while a heavier bottom out force is favored for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for their faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may result in a slightly quicker feel with the WS Heavy Tactile switch compared to the Outemu Tom. Ultimately, whether you prefer the shorter or longer travel distance will depend on your personal preference for responsiveness and key feel.
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 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 Tom switch does not have a well-known sound profile. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch is known for its "thocky" sound, which is described as clacky, high-pitched, and resonant. This means that when typing on the WS Heavy Tactile switch, you can expect a sharp, crisp, and immersive auditory experience that may be more satisfying for those who enjoy a more pronounced sound while typing.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Tom switch lacks a defined feel descriptor. However, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch is known for providing an invigorating, sharp, and snappy tactile experience. With a 70g bump and medium pronounced tactility, typing on the WS Heavy Tactile switch can offer a responsive and lively feel, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy a more tactile response.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Tom switch lacks well-known sound and feel descriptors, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch is recognized for its captivating "thocky" sound and invigorating feel. Choosing between the two switches will ultimately depend on personal preference for sound and tactile feedback. However, if you enjoy a more pronounced sound and tactile experience, the WS Heavy Tactile switch may provide a more engaging and satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Tom tactile switch or the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, there are key factors to consider. If you are looking for a switch with no bottom out force and are prioritizing a specific feature unique to the Tom, then the Tom switch would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are seeking a tactile switch that offers an immersive tactile experience characterized by a 70g bump and captivating "thocky" sound, then the WS Heavy Tactile switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style, preferences for sound and feel, and what characteristics you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch. Choose wisely based on these factors to ensure a typing experience that is tailored to your liking.
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