Kailh Plum vs. Wuque Studio WS Jade
An in-depth look at the Kailh Plum and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Plum, a tactile switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Jade, a linear switch, we see distinct differences that cater to different preferences. The Plum offers a unique and hefty feel without a significant tactile bump, providing a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Jade stands out with its metallic insert for a bright and resonant sound, along with a light diffuser for a captivating RGB display. The WS Jade also offers a creamy and smooth typing experience with a rock-solid bottom-out. While these general descriptions offer insight into the characteristics of each switch, it is important to delve deeper to determine which switch aligns best with your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Plum and the Wuque Studio WS Jade, a notable difference lies in the material used for the top housing. While the Plum features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, the WS Jade opts for a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles adds a unique aspect to each switch, catering to different preferences in typing experience. However, if a user is looking for a switch with clear housing for RGB lighting, the polycarbonate top housing of the Plum would be the ideal choice.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Kailh Plum and the Wuque Studio WS Jade share similarities in their choice of materials. The Plum utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which enhances the sound profile by creating a deeper and fuller tone due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the WS Jade also incorporates a POM bottom housing, offering a similar deep and muted sound profile. This commonality in bottom housing materials suggests that both switches may provide comparable typing experiences in terms of sound feedback when bottoming out keys.
The division of housing materials between the top and bottom of a switch plays a significant role in determining the overall sound and feel of typing on the Kailh Plum and the Wuque Studio WS Jade. While the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing impacts the sound and feel when pressing down on a key. This distinction underscores the importance of considering the combination of housing materials in a switch to achieve the desired typing experience. Whether opting for the sharper and crisper sound of the Plum's polycarbonate top housing or the deeper and more muted tone of the WS Jade's POM housing, users are presented with distinct choices that cater to different preferences in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, it's clear that they offer different levels of resistance. The Plum has an actuation force of None grams, making it extremely light, while the WS Jade has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Plum requires 70 grams of force, which is medium-heavy, while the WS Jade only needs 60 grams. This means that while the Plum is heavier to press all the way down, the WS Jade requires a slightly stronger initial push to register a keystroke. Ultimately, the Plum is heavier overall, making it better suited for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, while the WS Jade is lighter and may be preferred by those who type for longer periods of time.
Travel distance
The travel distance of both the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch is 3.6 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When it comes to pressing down on a key, both switches offer a consistent distance for users to feel. This means that regardless of whether you choose the Plum or the WS Jade, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance. This can provide a sense of familiarity and comfort for users who prefer a specific travel distance in their keyboard switches.
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 Jade comes in at $4.30.
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 switch offers a neutral sound profile, which is suitable for most users in various settings. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade switch is known for its clacky and resonant sound, thanks to the metallic insert in the stem base, creating a bright and percussive typing experience. Depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard, users can choose between a more subtle sound with the Plum or a more vivid and engaging sound with the WS Jade.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Plum switch is described as mild and stepped, providing a gentle typing experience with a moderate tactile bump. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Jade switch offers a silky and creamy typing feel, enhancing smoothness and minimizing resistance during key presses. While the Plum switch may appeal to those who prefer a softer touch, the WS Jade switch caters to users looking for a buttery smooth typing sensation with minimal feedback.
Overall, the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Plum switch stands out for its unique weightiness without a prominent tactile bump and neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users. On the other hand, the WS Jade switch distinguishes itself with a bright metallic sound and a creamy smooth typing experience, appealing to those who prioritize a tactile typing feel. Ultimately, users can expect different but equally satisfying typing experiences tailored to their preferences with these distinct mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, you should consider your preference for weightiness and tactility. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a unique tactile feel and a neutral sound profile, the Plum may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium switch with a bright metallic sound profile, a creamy smooth typing experience, and an enchanting RGB display, the WS Jade might be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal typing preference and the experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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