Outemu Phoenix vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Outemu Phoenix and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch offer unique typing experiences. The Phoenix is renowned for its under-skirt click mechanism, providing a distinctive feel and sound profile that is described as both 'crunchy' and 'polished'. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch is known for its smoothness combined with a snappy tactile bump, offering a neutral sound signature and categorized as 'stepped', 'neutral', and 'easy-to-press'. Each switch has its own advantages - the Phoenix for its unique click mechanism and sparkling feel, and the WS Light Tactile for its smoothness and tactile feedback. However, 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Phoenix and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, a relatively stiff plastic, results in a clear and resonant sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. However, despite these similarities in top housing material, the Phoenix utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the WS Light Tactile features a nylon bottom housing.
The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phoenix continues to enhance the sharp and clear sound profile of the switch. Similar to the top housing, the stiffness of polycarbonate in the bottom housing contributes to a consistent and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing offers a contrasting experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that is distinct from the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing.
In terms of feel, the housing materials play a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience of the Outemu Phoenix and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile. With the qualities of polycarbonate more pronounced in the Phoenix's top and bottom housings, users can expect a consistent and sharp sound when pressing and releasing keys. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile's split housing materials create a unique combination of sharpness from the polycarbonate top housing and depth from the nylon bottom housing, offering a more varied typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that there are significant differences between the two. The Phoenix has a bottom out force of 62 grams, making it a medium weight switch, while the WS Light Tactile is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. The Phoenix does not specify an actuation force, making it difficult to compare directly, but it can be assumed to be higher than the WS Light Tactile due to its heavier bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter feel may lean towards the WS Light Tactile for longer typing or gaming sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the Phoenix. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Phoenix clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Phoenix offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which can benefit gamers looking for faster input. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch provides a bit more depth and feedback with its longer travel distance, which may be preferable for users who like a more pronounced keystroke. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference on whether you prefer a shorter or longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Phoenix comes in at $4.15, 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 Phoenix clicky switch offers a unique and distinctive "crunchy" sound reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. This sound profile is a characteristic feature of clicky switches and can add an enjoyable tactile and auditory experience to typing. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch boasts a neutral sound signature that is suitable for various typing environments, whether at home or in a professional setting. The neutral sound profile of the WS Light Tactile switch ensures a pleasant typing experience without being overly loud or distracting.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch provides a polished typing experience with its smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This polished feel enhances the overall typing experience by offering a sleek and effortless keystroke. On the contrary, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch offers a stepped tactile sensation, providing a two-stage keypress experience with pre-travel and post-travel sensations. Additionally, the WS Light Tactile switch is easy to press, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.
Overall, both the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Phoenix excels in providing a crunchy sound and a polished feel, while the WS Light Tactile switch stands out for its neutral sound signature and stepped tactile sensation. Depending on your preference for sound and typing feel, either of these switches could provide a satisfying typing experience. Both switches offer their own set of qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find a switch that best suits their needs and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch or the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, it really comes down to personal preference and your typing needs. If you enjoy a unique and crystalline feel with a crunchy sound profile, the Phoenix switch may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and easy-to-press typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the WS Light Tactile switch might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, both switches offer their own distinct advantages and it's important to consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision.
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