Kailh Plum vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Kailh Plum and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Plum tactile switch to the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, it is evident that both have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Plum switch is known for its hefty feel without a pronounced tactile bump, providing a unique typing experience unlike many other tactile switches. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch boasts smoothness with a snappy and noticeable tactile bump, coupled with a neutral sound signature. While the Plum switch offers a mild and neutral typing experience, the WS Light Tactile switch is easier to press and more stepped in its tactility. These general pointers can help guide your decision in choosing between the two switches; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the Kailh Plum and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. Despite both switches featuring polycarbonate top housings, the Kailh Plum and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile may offer slightly different sound characteristics due to any variations in the manufacturing process.
In terms of their bottom housings, both the Kailh Plum and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile opt for nylon, a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. The choice of nylon for the bottom housing of these switches suggests a focus on providing a satisfying typing experience with a emphasis on sound quality and a deeper tone.
Given that the Kailh Plum and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile use different materials for their top and bottom housings, the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing impacts the sound when a key is released. This distribution of housing materials enhances the overall tactile experience of typing on these switches, offering a balanced combination of sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, it is clear that the WS Light Tactile is the lighter option. The Plum has an actuation force of None grams, making it unknown, whereas the WS Light Tactile has an actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Plum requires 70 grams, which is medium-heavy, while the WS Light Tactile only needs 50 grams, which is light. The Plum offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, while the WS Light Tactile provides a lighter touch that may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Kailh Plum tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm. This means that the Plum switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the WS Light Tactile switch. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Plum switch. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may opt for the WS Light Tactile switch with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer a different feel and experience based on their travel distance, so it ultimately depends on personal preference.
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 Light 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
When it comes to sound, both the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level, making them suitable for various typing environments and user preferences. The resulting sound of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Plum tactile switch is described as providing a mild and stepped typing experience. This means that the typing sensation is gentle and approachable to most users, with a subtle tactile bump and smooth keypress. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch is also described as stepped, offering a two-stage tactile feedback that is mild and easy-to-press. This results in a typing experience that is comfortable, effortless, and reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions.
Overall, both the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Plum switch may feel weightier with a less pronounced tactile bump, the WS Light Tactile switch provides a snappier and more perceptible bump with an easy-to-press action. Ultimately, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a medium-heavy switch with a unique tactile feel and a neutral sound profile, the Plum may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a smooth, snappy tactile bump and a neutral sound signature, the WS Light Tactile switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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