Outemu Phoenix vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Phoenix and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Outemu Phoenix and Wuque Studio WS Yellow are two popular mechanical keyboard switches with distinct features and characteristics. The Phoenix switch is renowned for its unique under-skirt click mechanism, making it stand out among clicky switches. With a crystalline and sparkling type feel and sound profile, it offers a satisfying and crunchy typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Yellow switch from Wuque Studio combines classic materials with cutting-edge engineering. Equipped with a 22mm double-stage spring, these linear switches provide a delightful typing experience with a satisfying bounce. What sets the WS Yellow apart is its material blend, resulting in a familiar sound signature that enthusiasts cherish. Additionally, being lightweight, the WS Yellow switch offers effortless keystrokes, ensuring a smooth and fluid typing experience. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities, so you can make an informed decision and select the best switch for your personal preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Phoenix and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow differ in their housing materials. The Phoenix features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucent polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the WS Yellow utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder tone. While both materials serve different purposes, they enhance the overall sound experience in their own unique ways.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the Phoenix and the WS Yellow also differ in material. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phoenix contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, much like its top housing. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance. On the other hand, the WS Yellow employs a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nylon material absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. These distinct material choices in the bottom housing affect the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch.
Although the top and bottom housings of the Phoenix and the WS Yellow differ in material, they each contribute unique qualities to the overall sound experience. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. The stiffer polycarbonate in both the Phoenix's top and bottom housing creates a clearer and more resonant sound, while the softer nylon of the WS Yellow's top and bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. Despite these differences, both switches offer a distinct sound experience based on their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, it is important to consider the weight of each switch. The Phoenix has an actuation force of unavailable grams, while the WS Yellow also has an actuation force of unavailable grams. Therefore, both switches have a similar actuation force, resulting in a similar typing experience in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Phoenix has a heavier force of 62 grams, which provides a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Yellow has a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a lighter and potentially more suitable option for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the decision between these switches would depend on individual preferences, with the Phoenix offering a stronger push feel and the WS Yellow providing a lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, it is evident that the Phoenix has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the WS Yellow has a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches deviate from the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance, with the Phoenix being on the shallower side and the WS Yellow offering a slightly deeper press. These differences in travel distance cater to different preferences and use cases. Gamers, for instance, often favor shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Phoenix a suitable option. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keystroke experience may gravitate towards the WS Yellow with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the switches boils down to personal preference for responsiveness or depth in typing 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 Yellow 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is best known for its unique click mechanism, which creates a crunchy sound similar to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, there is no specific information provided about the sound profile of the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Phoenix is described as having a polished switch feel, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. This is likely due to the materials used and/or factory lubing, which reduces friction and allows for smooth key travel. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switch offers a creamy typing experience. This sensation can be attributed to either the factory lubricant applied in the switch or specific materials used. Typing on these switches feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, with each keystroke melting seamlessly into the next. Additionally, the WS Yellow switch is categorized as a mild switch, meaning it provides a gentler typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The sound and feel of the WS Yellow switch are approachable and lie in a safe, middle-ground zone that many find comfortable.
In conclusion, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch stands out for its unique click mechanism that delivers a crystalline and sparkling sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. With its polished feel, it offers a sleek and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch features a delightful typing experience with a satisfying bounce, thanks to its 22mm double-stage spring. It also provides a creamy and mild typing sensation, making it a comfortable and smooth choice for typists. While the specific sound profile of the WS Yellow switch is not mentioned, you can expect a familiar sound signature that enthusiasts have come to adore. Overall, both switches offer subjective qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a unique and satisfying typing experience, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch would be a great option for you. With its under-skirt click mechanism, you can expect a crystalline and sparkling feel and sound profile. The Phoenix has a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lightweight and smooth typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch would be a better choice. These switches offer a delightful bounce, thanks to their 22mm double-stage spring, and they are crafted to be lightweight, ensuring effortless keystrokes. With a medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams, the WS Yellow provides a mild and creamy typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch depends on your personal preference for the sound and feel of the switches.
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