KTT Phalaenopsis vs. Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear
An in-depth look at the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear. The Phalaenopsis is a tactile switch that is best known for its beautiful translucent design and light actuation force of 37g. This switch makes typing effortless and minimizes finger fatigue, even during prolonged typing sessions. With a satisfying and discernible tactile bump at 50g of force, each keystroke becomes a delightful experience. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear is a linear switch that offers a smooth and high-pitched typing experience. It features a transparent polycarbonate top housing and UHMWPE bottom housing, allowing for maximum RGB lighting customization. With a POM stem lightly lubricated for minimal friction, this switch offers a satisfyingly smooth keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your individual preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Double-staged stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Phalaenopsis and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear share the use of polycarbonate in their top housings, which results in similar sound profiles. The polycarbonate material in the housings creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which allows for a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches offer a clear and resonant sound profile with the added benefit of RGB compatibility.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the Phalaenopsis utilizes polycarbonate while the WS Aurora Clear incorporates UHWMPE material. The Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to the overall sound profile, providing a sharper and crisper bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear's UHWMPE bottom housing introduces a newer material for switch housings. This material offers a very bright sound signature, resulting in resonant clacks when typing on switches with such housings. Therefore, the Phalaenopsis focuses more on the impact of the bottom housing on sound and feel, while the WS Aurora Clear brings a unique brightness to the typing experience with its UHWMPE bottom housing.
Overall, while both switches share the use of polycarbonate in their top housings, which leads to similar results in terms of sound profile, they differ in terms of their bottom housings. The Phalaenopsis utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper bottom-out sound. In contrast, the WS Aurora Clear incorporates UHWMPE material for its bottom housing, which offers a bright sound signature and resonant clacks. So, while they may share certain qualities in their top housings, the differences in the bottom housings give each switch a unique sound experience.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, one can observe some notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Phalaenopsis has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the WS Aurora Clear's 53 grams. This means that the Phalaenopsis requires a lighter touch to register a keystroke, making it more suitable for those who prefer a gentler typing experience. Conversely, the WS Aurora Clear has a heavier actuation force, providing a more substantial push feel for users who prefer a stronger tactile feedback.
In terms of bottom out force, the Phalaenopsis requires 50 grams of force to fully depress the key, while the WS Aurora Clear demands a higher force of 63.5 grams. This suggests that the WS Aurora Clear requires more pressure to fully press the key down compared to the Phalaenopsis, resulting in a more robust typing experience.
Considering weight and personal preferences, those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of use, such as during work or long gaming sessions, may opt for the Phalaenopsis due to its lighter actuation and bottom out forces. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial and pronounced keystroke may find the WS Aurora Clear to be a better fit, as its heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a more satisfying typing experience.
In summary, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offers a lighter actuation and bottom out force, ideal for those favoring a lighter and more effortless keystroke. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch provides a heavier actuation and bottom out force, satisfying the preferences of individuals seeking a more forceful and tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Phalaenopsis offers a slightly deeper key press compared to the WS Aurora Clear. A 4.0mm travel distance is considered more traditional, offering a satisfying depth to the key press. On the other hand, the 3.8mm travel distance of the WS Aurora Clear is slightly shallower and may appeal to gamers or individuals who prioritize faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference - those who prefer a more responsive feel may opt for the WS Aurora Clear with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a deeper key press may find the Phalaenopsis more suitable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
The Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear comes in at $8.00 per 10 switches.
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
The KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offers a delightful typing experience with its light actuation force of 37g, making typing effortless and minimizing finger fatigue even during prolonged sessions. It features a satisfying tactile bump with a tactile force of 50g, ensuring each keystroke is discernible and enjoyable. The sound produced by the Phalaenopsis switch can be described as bassy, offering a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. It provides a thocky sound, resembling a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. Additionally, the Phalaenopsis switch is classified as a stepped switch, meaning it has two stages of tactile feedback. It feels more mild compared to hypertactile switches, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel.
On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch is known for providing a smooth and high-pitched typing experience. It features a transparent polycarbonate top housing and UHMWPE bottom housing, allowing for maximum RGB lighting customization. The POM stem is lightly lubed, ensuring minimal friction and a satisfyingly smooth keystroke. The sound produced by the WS Aurora Clear switch can be described as high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. If you prefer a less deep and rich sound profile, the higher-pitched sound of this switch may be preferable. The WS Aurora Clear switch offers a buttery and mild typing experience, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform sensation. Its polished finish results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, adding to the overall sleek typing experience.
Based on the available information, the Phalaenopsis and WS Aurora Clear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Phalaenopsis switch is bassy and thocky, providing a deeper and richer sound profile with its stepped feel, while the WS Aurora Clear switch is high-pitched and buttery, offering a sharp and crisp sound with its mild and polished typing experience. These switches cater to different preferences, with the Phalaenopsis being more tactile and providing a discernible bump, while the WS Aurora Clear offers a smooth linear typing experience. Both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience and minimize fatigue, ensuring a delightful and satisfying keystroke.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a lighter bottom out force and a satisfying tactile bump, the KTT Phalaenopsis would be a great choice for you. This switch offers a delightful typing experience with its effortless actuation force of 50g and a discernible tactile bump. It also minimizes finger fatigue, making it suitable for long typing sessions. Additionally, the Phalaenopsis provides a bassy and thocky sound profile, adding depth and richness to each keystroke.
On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force and a smooth typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear would be a perfect fit. This switch features a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5g and a transparent polycarbonate top housing, allowing for maximum RGB lighting customization. With its lightly lubed POM stem, the Aurora Clear offers minimal friction and a buttery smooth keystroke. It also produces a high-pitched sound, which is sharp and crisp.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear will depend on your preferences for tactile feedback, actuation force, sound, and overall feel. Consider what type of typing experience you enjoy and what sound profile resonates with you the most. Whether you prefer the light and tactile experience of the Phalaenopsis or the smooth and high-pitched typing experience of the Aurora Clear, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your mechanical keyboard setup. In the end, it's all about finding the switch that aligns with your personal preferences and typing style.
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