Outemu Tom vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, choosing the right one can significantly enhance your typing experience, especially when comparing switches like the Outemu Tom and the Wuque Studio WS POM+. The Outemu Tom, a tactile switch, offers a distinct physical bump that provides tactile feedback, making it an excellent choice for typists who prefer to feel a response with each keystroke and enjoy a more traditional typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS POM+, a linear switch, is designed for those who crave a smooth, uninterrupted action without any tactile bump, delivering a deep and satisfying “thock” sound with every press. While both switches cater to different preferences—tactile feedback versus smoothness—the right choice ultimately depends on your personal typing style and needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Tom Tactile

Wuque Studio WS POM+ Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.90 per 10

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Housing materials

Comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Tom and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ reveals some intriguing differences in sound profiles. The Tom features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer properties, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This material's translucency also enhances the visual effects of RGB lighting, making it a preferred choice for builders looking to create an illuminated setup. In contrast, the WS POM+ utilizes polyoxymethylene (POM) for its top housing, which produces a deeper, more muted sound profile. While both switch designs feature a top housing crafted from notable plastics, the resulting sound characteristics differ significantly — with the Tom producing a more resonant and crisp sound, while the WS POM+ offers a smoother, lower sound.

When examining the bottom housings of both switches, the distinctions remain clear yet echo some similarities. The Tom’s nylon bottom housing is notable for its ability to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the WS POM+ features a POM bottom housing that also promotes a rich and muted sound experience. Despite both switches employing materials that cater to producing pleasing auditory feedback, the nylon in the Tom ensures a distinct depth compared to the POM’s muted resonance. Ultimately, the choice of bottom housing contributes significantly to the overall feel and bottom-out sound of each switch.

In summary, while there are similarities in the POM housing of the WS POM+ and the polycarbonate top of the Tom, the differences in materials used for both the top and bottom housing create varying auditory experiences. The combination of a polycarbonate top and nylon bottom in the Tom leads to a brighter, sharper sound during key releases, contrasted with the WS POM+, which, due to its consistent use of POM, embraces a more unified, muted sound across both housing types. Thus, while both switches can yield high-quality sound profiles, the tuning and characteristics of the materials result in distinct sonic experiences reflective of their design philosophies.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Tom switch has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the WS POM+ is lighter, requiring only 45 grams to actuate. This difference suggests that the WS POM+ may be better suited for users who prefer a lighter touch, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming, while the Tom could appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial push feel with its heavier actuation force. However, the bottom out force for the Outemu Tom is unknown, making a direct comparison of that aspect more challenging. The WS POM+, with its bottom out force of 55 grams, offers a clear benchmark for users who prioritize that tactile feedback. Overall, if you prefer a lighter and more effortless typing experience, the WS POM+ would be the preferable choice, while the Outemu Tom caters to those who appreciate a heavier actuation.

Travel distance

The Outemu Tom tactile switch features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing the keys, the Outemu Tom provides a shorter travel distance, making it potentially more responsive and suitable for gamers who favor quick key presses. In contrast, the WS POM+ offers a more substantial 3.6 mm travel, which may appeal to users who prefer a deeper, more satisfying keystroke feel. Thus, if you prioritize rapid response times, the Tom would be the preferable choice, whereas those who favor a more pronounced engagement with their keyboard might lean towards the WS POM+.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Tom tactile switch does not have a well-defined character, which can make it less memorable compared to the Wuque Studio WS POM+, which is celebrated for its deep, satisfying "thock" sound signature. This auditory quality can elevate the overall typing experience, providing a pleasing acoustic feedback with each keystroke. It's important to note, however, that the sound produced by any switch is greatly influenced by the choice of keyboard, keycaps, and even the typing technique. Therefore, while the WS POM+ offers a distinctive auditory pleasure, the Outemu Tom may still provide adequate sound depending on how it is integrated with the rest of the keyboard setup.

In terms of feel, the Outemu Tom tactile switch does not have a specific description, leaving its tactile response largely undefined. Conversely, the WS POM+ is characterized by its buttery-smooth keystroke, delivering a refined sensation as you type. This smoothness can contribute to an overall enjoyable typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during long sessions. The superior feel of the WS POM+ can excite those who prefer a refined linear switch, while the Outemu Tom may not be as appealing in terms of the tactile experience it offers.

Overall, while the Outemu Tom lacks distinct characteristics in both sound and feel, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ stands out with its satisfying audio experience and smooth keystroke. If you're leaning towards a switch that promises a refined sensation and auditory feedback, the WS POM+ would be the better choice. If you're open to exploring switches with less defined qualities, the Tom may still serve you well in diverse keyboard setups. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences and how much value you place on these subjective qualities in your typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, your preferences and typing habits play a crucial role. If you're seeking a tactile switch that provides feedback during typing but the specific feel and sound characteristics of the Tom aren’t clearly defined, you might want to try it if you're curious about tactile switches or looking for a switch that can offer a different typing experience without heavy actuation. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch, the WS POM+ stands out with its medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, which may provide a satisfying balance of resistance and smoothness. Known for its deep, thock sound signature and buttery-smooth keystrokes, the WS POM+ is excellent for those who enjoy a more refined auditory experience and a fluid typist feel. Ultimately, if you value clearer tactile and auditory feedback, the Tom might be a good fit, whereas if you prioritize smooth, uninterrupted keystrokes with a satisfying sound, the WS POM+ would likely be more to your liking. Your choice should align with your desired typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Tom Tactile

$3.10 per 10

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Wuque Studio WS POM+ Linear

$3.90 per 10

Learn more