Kailh Plum vs. Wuque Studio WS Brown
An in-depth look at the Kailh Plum and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are countless options to choose from. Two popular options that are worth considering are the Kailh Plum and the Wuque Studio WS Brown. The Kailh Plum is known for its unique qualities, as it feels quite hefty but lacks a pronounced tactile bump typically associated with tactile switches. This makes it stand out from other tactile switches on the market. Additionally, the Plum has a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Brown offers a harmonious blend of familiarity and innovation. These switches have a medium-light actuation force, striking a balance between responsiveness and comfort. Typing on the WS Brown switches provides a delightful auditory experience, thanks to its familiar nylon housing and POM stem combination. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can decide on the best switch for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Plum and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profile. The Plum utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffness, allowing for a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing is beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the WS Brown features a nylon top housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Plum and the WS Brown switches employ nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relative softness of nylon allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, giving rise to a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing will be evident when pressing down on either switch.
Although there are differences in the housing materials, it is worth noting that both switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housing. As a result, the typing experience on both the Kailh Plum and the Wuque Studio WS Brown will have similarities in terms of the deep and full sound profile elicited by the nylon bottom housing. However, the choice of the top housing material - either polycarbonate for the Plum or nylon for the WS Brown - will introduce distinct characteristics to the sound emitted when releasing a key. Whether one prefers a sharper and crisper sound or a deeper and fuller sound, both switches offer options to cater to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, their actuation forces and bottom out forces present distinct differences. Unfortunately, the exact actuation forces of both switches are unavailable. However, we can still analyze the available information. In terms of bottom out force, the Plum switch has a heavier weight of 70 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy category. On the other hand, the WS Brown switch has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light.
Considering weight, it is important to note that a lighter actuation force allows for extended typing periods, making it ideal for those using their keyboard extensively during work or long gaming sessions. In contrast, a heavier force provides a more substantial and tactile typing experience, appealing to those seeking a stronger push feel.
While we cannot specify the actuation forces of these switches, it is evident that the strength required to trigger keystrokes varies between the two. If the actuation forces are similar, users can expect comparable results in terms of the typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Plum and the Wuque Studio WS Brown hinges on personal preference, whether one prefers a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force for their desired typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, there is a slight difference in their distances. The Plum has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Brown has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Therefore, the WS Brown switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Plum. However, it's important to note that both switches fall within the realm of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times. So if you're looking for a more responsive typing or gaming experience, the Plum with its shorter travel distance would be the suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial depth and feel when pressing down on the keys, the WS Brown with its slightly longer travel distance may be the preferred option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the specific typing or gaming needs of the individual.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Brown 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 Kailh Plum tactile switch is known for its neutral sound profile that many find enjoyable. This means that the sound produced by these switches is moderate, making them suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the sound of the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch. However, it is safe to assume that the sound produced by these switches would be similar to other tactile switches with a familiar nylon housing and POM stem combination.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Plum tactile switch provides a mild and unique typing experience. These switches feel quite hefty but lack a pronounced tactile bump, setting them apart from many other tactile switches. The absence of a strong tactile bump contributes to a more gentle typing experience. Additionally, the Plum switches are described as stepped, which means that they have a two-stage feel. This means that users can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel in the keystroke. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available about the feel of the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch.
Taking into account the available information, the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch offer different subjective qualities. In terms of sound, the Plum switch provides a neutral and enjoyable profile, while the sound profile of the WS Brown switch is unknown. In terms of feel, the Plum switch offers a mild and stepped typing experience, whereas there is no specific information available about the feel of the WS Brown switch. It is important to consider these qualities when choosing a switch, and keep in mind that individual preferences may vary.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a tactile switch that provides a unique and weighty feel without a huge tactile bump, the Kailh Plum is the way to go. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, these switches offer a distinctive typing experience that sets them apart from other tactile switches. The Plum switches also have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for all intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. On the other hand, if you value a harmonious blend of familiarity and innovation, along with a medium-light actuation force for a comfortable typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches are a great option. With a bottom out force of 55 grams, these switches strike a balance between responsiveness and comfort, ensuring fatigue-free typing during extended sessions. They also provide a familiar and delightful auditory experience, thanks to their nylon housing and POM stem combination. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your priorities and preferences, so consider what aspects are most important to you in terms of feel and sound before making a decision.
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