Outemu Phoenix vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the Outemu Phoenix and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Phoenix and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile are two options that offer distinct advantages. The Phoenix switches are widely recognized for their unique click mechanism, providing a satisfyingly crunchy and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switches by Wuque are designed with the office and work environment in mind, striking a delicate balance between tactility and noise reduction. These switches feature ingenious stem railings with small cutouts, minimizing switch sound while delivering a crisp bottom-out and responsive return. Unlike traditional silent switches that often have a padded feel, the WS Silent Tactile switches provide a typing experience that is tranquil yet tactile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide which switch aligns with your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Phoenix and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile differ in terms of their housing materials. The Phoenix utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, while the WS Silent Tactile features a nylon top and bottom housing. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, nylon, being a softer plastic, elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder tone.
While both the Phoenix and the WS Silent Tactile employ different materials for their top and bottom housings, they share some similarities. Both polycarbonate and nylon contribute to enhancing the sound characteristics of the switches. The polycarbonate top housing of the Phoenix and the nylon top housing of the WS Silent Tactile both influence the sound when a key is released, adding a distinct touch to the typing experience. Furthermore, both switches provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance, with clear housings showcasing the translucency of polycarbonate and the classic design of nylon.
When it comes to the impact of the housing materials, especially during key presses, the Phoenix and the WS Silent Tactile offer varying experiences. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phoenix creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing of the WS Silent Tactile contributes to a deeper and fuller bottom-out sound, resulting from its ability to absorb more sound due to its softer nature. Therefore, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired sound outcome during key presses.
In conclusion, the Outemu Phoenix and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile utilize different housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The polycarbonate housing in the Phoenix offers a sharper and crisper sound, suitable for RGB lighting setups. On the other hand, the nylon housing in the WS Silent Tactile provides a deeper and fuller sound. Nevertheless, both switches have their unique qualities, with the top housing affecting the sound upon key release and the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Ultimately, it is up to the user to decide which sound characteristics align with their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch, we encounter some similarities and differences. It is worth noting that the exact actuation force for both switches is not available. However, the Phoenix switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which falls under the medium category. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile switch has a slightly higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy.
Considering weight as a factor, some individuals prefer lighter switches, as it allows them to type for longer periods without strain. This is particularly suitable for those who bring their keyboards to work or engage in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, some users prefer a stronger push feel to enhance their typing experience and provide a more substantial feedback. For this group, selecting switches with heavier forces would be more suitable.
Although the exact actuation force for these switches is unknown, both the Phoenix clicky switch and the WS Silent Tactile switch can provide similar results in this aspect. As they fall within the medium and medium-heavy categories for bottom out force respectively, users can expect a comparable level of actuation force required to trigger a keystroke. Ultimately, the decision between these switches would depend on personal preferences for typing experience, with the Phoenix switch being lighter and the WS Silent Tactile switch offering a slightly heavier feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch have slightly different travel distances. The Phoenix has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the WS Silent Tactile has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers who value fast response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the Phoenix with its shorter travel distance may be the preferred choice. However, some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel abrupt, and if you prefer a more substantial keystroke, the longer travel distance of the WS Silent Tactile may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Silent 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
The subjective qualities of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch differ in terms of sound and feel. The Phoenix switch is renowned for its unique under-skirt click mechanism, resulting in a crunchy sound similar to stepping on piles of autumn leaves. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, which is moderate and suitable for various purposes. It also has a muted sound, significantly reducing typical mechanical keyboard noise.
In terms of feel, the Phoenix switch provides a polished experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This is achieved through either the materials used or factory lubing, resulting in a sleek typing sensation. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch offers an accented tactile feel, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. It is described as invigorating, with pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. Additionally, the WS Silent Tactile switch has a mild option, offering a more gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone.
Overall, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch differ in terms of sound and feel. The Phoenix switch produces a crunchy sound that is unique and distinctive, while the WS Silent Tactile switch offers a more neutral and muted sound profile. In terms of feel, the Phoenix switch provides a polished and refined experience, while the WS Silent Tactile switch offers an accented tactile feel that is invigorating yet not overwhelming. These switches cater to different preferences and environments, allowing users to choose the option that best suits their needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a unique and sparkling clicky switch with a medium bottom out force, the Outemu Phoenix is a great option for you. Its under-skirt click mechanism sets it apart from other clicky switches and provides a satisfying tactile experience. Additionally, its crunchy sound profile gives the sensation of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that strikes a balance between tactility and noise reduction, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile is the way to go. With a slightly heavier bottom out force and stem railings designed to minimize switch sound, these switches offer a crisp bottom-out and responsive return without compromising on silence. The WS Silent Tactile switches provide a polished and refined typing experience, perfect for office and work environments. Ultimately, the choice between the Phoenix and WS Silent Tactile depends on your preference for clickiness and noise reduction, as well as the specific feel and sound profile you desire.
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