Outemu Phoenix vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Phoenix, a clicky switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Onion, a linear switch. The Phoenix stands out with its unique under-skirt click mechanism, providing a satisfying crisp and sparkling feel and sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Onion offers a buttery smooth keystroke feel, thanks to its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. With a crisp and responsive touch, this linear switch offers a neutral sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Outemu Phoenix and the Wuque Studio WS Onion share many similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Phoenix and WS Onion offer similar benefits in terms of sound and aesthetics when it comes to their polycarbonate top housing.

However, the two switches diverge in terms of their bottom housing materials. The Phoenix utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, which leads to a continuation of the sharper and crisper sound profile seen in the top housing. This material choice ensures that the impact and bottom-out sound of the switch remains consistent with the overall sound profile.

In contrast, the WS Onion employs a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, the WS Onion offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound, providing a distinct typing experience.

In summary, both the Outemu Phoenix and the Wuque Studio WS Onion showcase the benefits of polycarbonate top housing. However, their diverging choices of bottom housing materials - polycarbonate for the Phoenix and nylon for the WS Onion - result in slightly different sound profiles. While the Phoenix maintains the sharp and crisp sound in both top and bottom-out actions, the WS Onion presents a deeper and fuller sound due to its nylon bottom housing. Whether one prefers a sharper or deeper sound profile, these switches offer unique options to suit different typing preferences.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, it is important to consider their actuation force and bottom out force. Unfortunately, the exact actuation force for both switches is unavailable. However, the Phoenix has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which can be considered medium, while the WS Onion has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, classified as medium-heavy.

The actuation force of a switch determines the force required to trigger a keystroke. Since the exact actuation force is unknown for both switches, it is difficult to compare them in this regard. However, it can be assumed that the actuation force of both switches would be similar, considering they have similar bottom out forces.

In terms of weight, the lighter weight can be beneficial for those who prefer to type for extended periods, such as in a work environment or during long gaming sessions. The lighter actuation force would allow for quicker and easier keystrokes. On the other hand, some users may prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. These users would lean towards options with heavier forces, such as the WS Onion with its medium-heavy bottom out force.

In conclusion, while the exact actuation force is unknown, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch can be compared based on their bottom out force. The Phoenix has a medium bottom out force, while the WS Onion has a slightly heavier medium-heavy bottom out force. Depending on individual preferences, users can choose the switch that provides the desired typing experience, whether it be a lighter or heavier force.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is 3.3 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. These distances indicate that the Phoenix has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the WS Onion.

A travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered traditional, while a 3.0 mm distance is shallower. With the Phoenix having a 3.3 mm travel distance, it falls on the shallower side of the spectrum. This shorter travel distance is often favored by gamers who value faster response times in their keystrokes. So, if you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch would be a suitable choice.

On the other hand, the WS Onion's 4 mm travel distance provides a more significant depth when compared to the Phoenix. This extra length may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial and deliberate keystroke, as the longer travel distance can offer a satisfying typing experience.

It's important to note that personal preference plays a significant role in the choice of switch travel distance. While shorter distances are favored by gamers for their speed, some individuals may find them too abrupt or shallow. Conversely, longer travel distances can provide a sense of depth that some users may prefer.

In summary, if you prioritize faster response times, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch with its 3.3 mm travel distance would be a suitable option, while the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch's 4 mm travel distance would be a better choice for those who prefer a deeper typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch stands out with its unique under-skirt click mechanism. This results in a distinctive and sparkling sound profile that can be described as "crunchy," reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile. This means it has a moderate actuation force requirement and doesn't produce an overly loud or clicky sound. The WS Onion's sound profile makes it suitable for various purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the Outemu Phoenix switch provides a polished experience. This means it has a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. The materials used and/or factory lubing contribute to reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion switch offers a buttery smooth keystroke feel that is deeply satisfying. This implies a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Similar to the Phoenix, the WS Onion switch also features a polished finish, ensuring a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Considering the available information, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch offer distinct qualities in sound and feel. The Phoenix is known for its unique under-skirt click mechanism, providing a crunchy sound and a polished feel. On the other hand, the WS Onion boasts a neutral sound profile with a moderate feel that is both buttery and polished. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, albeit in different ways. If you're interested in a unique clicky experience with a sparkling sound and polished feel, the Phoenix is the way to go. If you prefer a more neutral sound profile and a buttery smooth keystroke with a polished feel, the WS Onion is an excellent choice. Keep in mind that the sound and feel can also be influenced by other factors such as your choice of keyboard board and keycaps.

Conclusion

To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, there are a few key factors to consider. If you prioritize a unique and sparkling feel and sound profile, the Phoenix switch is the one for you. Its under-skirt click mechanism sets it apart from other clicky switches and provides a crystalline typing experience. On the other hand, if you value a buttery smooth keystroke feel and a neutral sound profile, the WS Onion switch is a great choice. Its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing contribute to a satisfying and responsive typing experience. When it comes to sound, the Phoenix switch is described as crunchy, reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves, while the WS Onion switch has a more neutral and moderate sound profile suitable for various environments and preferences. In terms of feel, the Phoenix switch is polished and offers reduced friction and smooth key travel, while the WS Onion switch is both buttery and polished, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Ultimately, your personal preferences and typing style will determine which switch is the best fit for you.

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