Outemu Tom vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Outemu Tom and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Tom, a tactile switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile, also a tactile switch, offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The Tom is best known for its smoothness and falls into the category of 'Stepped Tactile'. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile stands out for its smoothness, snappy tactile bump, and neutral sound signature, belonging to the categories of 'Stepped', 'Neutral', and 'Easy-to-press'. Choosing between these switches can depend on whether you prioritize simplicity or a more refined typing experience. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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 Tom and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is ideal for users looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it perfect for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the overall design of the keyboard. While both switches share this feature, the differences in other aspects of their housing materials may lead to varying typing experiences.
One key difference between the two switches lies in their bottom housings. The Tom utilizes nylon for this component, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder typing experience compared to the polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile also incorporates nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. Both switches provide users with a different tactile feel when pressing down on the keys, showcasing the impact that housing materials can have on the overall typing experience.
When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This distinction allows for a balanced typing experience that combines the unique properties of each material to create a satisfying tactile response for users. Overall, the use of different housing materials in the Outemu Tom and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile results in variations in sound profiles and tactile feels, providing users with options to choose a switch that best suits their preferences.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, we see that the Tom has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the WS Light Tactile's 45 grams. This means that the Tom requires more force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the WS Light Tactile requires 50 grams, while the bottom out force of the Tom is not specified. This indicates that the WS Light Tactile is lighter in terms of the force needed to fully press down the key. Weight plays a significant role in user preference, as a lighter switch might be more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions, while a heavier switch can provide a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on whether you prefer a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch. This means that the Tom switch offers a quicker response time for users who prefer a shorter travel distance, making it more ideal for gamers seeking fast input. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch provides a longer travel distance, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial key press with a deeper feel. Both switches have their advantages depending on personal preference, with the Tom being shorter and the WS Light Tactile being longer in terms of travel distance.
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 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Tom tactile switch lacks a specific descriptor, leaving its sound profile up to personal interpretation. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch is known for its neutral sound signature. This means that the WS Light Tactile switch produces a moderate sound that is suitable for various settings and preferences. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Tom tactile switch is also unspecified in its description of tactile feedback and actuation force. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch is known for providing a stepped tactile experience. This means that the WS Light Tactile switch has a two-stage tactile feedback, offering a more subtle tactile bump compared to other switches. Additionally, the WS Light Tactile switch is described as easy-to-press, requiring minimal force for key activation, which can enhance typing comfort and reduce finger fatigue during long typing sessions.
Overall, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch stands out for its neutral sound signature, stepped tactile feel, and easy-to-press actuation, making it a versatile option for a wide range of typing preferences. While the Outemu Tom tactile switch lacks specific descriptors for sound and feel, it may still provide a satisfactory typing experience for those who prefer a more customizable and adjustable switch. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, and experimenting with both can help you determine which one suits your typing style best.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, consider the specific preferences and needs you have for your keyboard. If you value a switch with a bottom out force of None grams and are looking for a switch best known for None, then the Tom may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a bottom out force of 50 grams and are interested in a switch known for maintaining smoothness with a snappy and perceptible tactile bump, as well as a neutral sound signature, then the WS Light Tactile would be more suitable. Additionally, if you prefer a neutral sound profile and a light actuation force for easy and comfortable typing, the WS Light Tactile may be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and how you want your keyboard experience to feel and sound.
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