Outemu Tom vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the Outemu Tom and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Tom, a tactile switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Red, a linear switch, both offer unique features to consider. The Tom is best known for its tactile feedback, while the WS Red stands out for its 22mm double-stage spring, providing a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a classic sound signature. The Tom offers a certain characteristic, while the WS Red provides a heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing feel. Each switch has its own advantages and appeal, but it ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. 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
67g
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Tom and the Wuque Studio WS Red, one noticeable difference lies in the top housing material. The Tom boasts a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the WS Red features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature. While both materials have distinct sound characteristics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Tom is better suited for RGB lighting due to its translucency, offering a unique aesthetic advantage.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon as the material of choice. This classic switch housing material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both the Tom and the WS Red. Nylon's ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics contributes to a duller and rounder sound, providing a more satisfying typing experience overall. Despite having the same material for the bottom housing, the unique design and structure of each switch will still offer subtle differences in sound and feel that cater to individual preferences.
While the top and bottom housings contribute different qualities to the overall sound profile of a switch, it's important to note that the impact of each housing material will be felt in different ways during use. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, whereas the top housing influences the sound when releasing the key. With the Outemu Tom's mix of polycarbonate and nylon housings and the Wuque Studio WS Red's all-nylon construction, both switches offer a blend of characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound and typing experience.
Weight
Comparing the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it is evident that the Tom is lighter in terms of actuation force at 55 grams, while the WS Red has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams. The actuation force for the WS Red is unknown, but it can be assumed to be heavier than the Tom due to the higher bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Outemu Tom, which allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the WS Red for its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Tom is shorter compared to the WS Red. The shorter travel distance of the Tom may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the WS Red may provide a more substantial and deliberate feel when typing. Both switches offer a different tactile experience due to their travel distances, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference. If you prefer a shorter travel distance for quicker responses, the Tom would be the better choice. However, if you prefer a longer travel distance for a more satisfying key press, then the WS Red would be the preferred option.
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 Red 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
When it comes to the sound quality of the switches, the Tom switch is known for its smooth operation. On the other hand, the WS Red switch offers a unique sound experience with its 22mm double-stage spring design. This results in a bouncy and responsive typing feel while maintaining a classic sound profile. Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Tom switch provides a comfortable experience. Meanwhile, the WS Red switch offers a satisfying typing experience with a heavier actuation force that adds a sense of weight to each keystroke. This gives users a substantial feel while typing, contributing to a more tactile and enjoyable experience. Overall, while the subjective qualities of the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch may vary in sound and feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a more tactile typing experience with a certain sound profile, the Tom switch might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a heavier actuation force and a bouncier feel while typing, the WS Red switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, it's important to test these switches firsthand to determine which one best suits your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a lightweight bottom out force and a familiar sound signature, the Outemu Tom tactile switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a bouncy and responsive typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Consider these factors when making your decision on which switch to choose for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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