Kailh Plum vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi
An in-depth look at the Kailh Plum and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Plum and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi are two popular options that offer distinct qualities. The Plum stands out with its unique combination of heftiness and minimal tactile bump, setting it apart from other tactile switches. Its sound profile is neutral and enjoyable, providing a pleasant typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switches combine innovation with visual aesthetics, featuring a light-diffusing column that enhances RGB visuals with a mesmerizing effect. These linear switches offer an ultra-smooth feel, thanks to the UPE stem that provides a unique dry and airy smoothness. With a slightly muted sound profile, the WS Morandi strikes a balance between form and function. Although these generalities provide a brief overview of each switch, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision based on your preferences.
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
3.50 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
The Kailh Plum and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi differ in their choice of materials for their top housings. The Plum utilizes polycarbonate, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate material is translucent, making it ideal for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the WS Morandi opts for POM as its top housing material. This choice produces a deeper and more muted sound profile, providing a unique auditory experience. While the two materials differ in sound characteristics, both options offer their own distinct qualities to enhance the typing experience.
In terms of their bottom housings, the Plum utilizes nylon, a classic choice for switch housing materials. Typing on switches with nylon housing results in a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to nylon's softer material that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This absorption leads to a duller and rounder sound profile. Conversely, the WS Morandi also employs POM for its bottom housing. Like its top housing counterpart, the POM material contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials create a similar effect on the sound outcome, the specific qualities each material brings to the table may differ slightly.
When considering the overall impact of the housing materials on the typing experience, it is important to note that the bottom housing predominantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater effect on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, despite their differences in material choices, both the Kailh Plum and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi offer a pleasing typing experience with their respective housing materials. Whether one prefers the sharper and crisper sound of the Plum's polycarbonate or the unique and muted sound of the WS Morandi's POM, both options provide an enhanced auditory experience for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, we find some key similarities and differences. However, it is worth noting that information regarding the actuation force for both switches is unavailable.
In terms of the bottom out force, the Kailh Plum tactile switch requires a force of 70 grams, which falls within the medium-heavy range. On the other hand, the WS Morandi linear switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium. Therefore, the Plum switch can be considered slightly heavier when it comes to bottoming out.
Considering the weight of the switch is crucial for different preferences and purposes. Some users prefer lighter switches, as it allows them to type for longer periods without fatigue, which is particularly desirable for those who use their keyboards extensively at work or engage in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, there are users who prefer a more substantial typing experience and choose options with heavier forces, as it provides a stronger push feel.
Although the actuation force information is unknown for both switches, it is safe to assume that the results would be similar. This means that both switches likely have a similar force required to trigger a keystroke, as is characteristic of tactile and linear switches in general.
In summary, the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a heavier bottom out force compared to the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, although information regarding their actuation forces is unavailable. The Plum switch may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, while the Morandi switch's slightly lighter bottom out force could be suitable for users looking for a lighter touch during extended typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, it is evident that the Plum has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the 3.5 mm travel distance of the WS Morandi. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, it can be observed that the Plum offers a slightly deeper press. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the WS Morandi with its slightly shorter travel distance, as it allows for quicker key presses. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial and satisfying keystroke may opt for the Kailh Plum, with its slightly longer travel distance providing a deeper press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Wuque Studio WS Morandi has an MSRP of $4.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Morandi for $3.90.
The Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 per 10 switches.
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, the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a neutral profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of uses. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch has a more low-pitched and subdued sound. It produces a dampened sound when pressed, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. Additionally, the WS Morandi switch is described as thocky, meaning it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Overall, the Plum switch provides a neutral and enjoyable sound experience, while the Morandi switch offers a more low-pitched and satisfying thocky sound.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Plum tactile switch gives a unique experience. It feels hefty but doesn't have a huge tactile bump, which sets it apart from other tactile switches. It falls into the mild category, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable for most users. It also has a stepped feel, meaning it has two stages of tactile feedback with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch provides a buttery and silky typing experience. It offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Additionally, it is described as creamy, indicating a smooth and buttery typing experience. So while the Plum switch offers a unique feel with its weightiness and stepped feedback, the Morandi switch provides a smooth and fluid typing experience with a creamy sensation.
Overall, the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Plum switch provides a neutral sound profile with a unique weightiness and a stepped tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Morandi switch offers a low-pitched, subdued and thocky sound, along with a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience. These differences allow users to choose based on their personal preferences for sound and feel. However, it's important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Nevertheless, both switches offer their own distinct qualities, providing a range of subjective experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a unique weightiness and a moderate sound profile, the Kailh Plum switches are a great choice. These switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams and offer a gentle typing experience, characterized as mild and stepped. The Plum switches may not have a huge tactile bump, but they provide a neutral sound profile that is enjoyable for both beginners and advanced users, whether you plan to use them at home or work.
On the other hand, if you prioritize visual aesthetics and want an ultra-smooth linear switch with a mesmerizing RGB effect, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches are an excellent option. These switches have a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and offer a slightly muted sound profile. With their UPE stem and long pole design, the WS Morandi switches provide a unique dry, airy, and wispy smoothness. They strike a perfect balance between form and function, enhancing both the look and feel of your keyboard.
Ultimately, your choice between the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch will depend on your preferences for weightiness, tactile feedback, sound profile, and visual aesthetics. Consider whether you prefer a heavier or medium weight switch, a more pronounced or gentle typing experience, and a neutral or slightly muted sound profile. Additionally, think about whether you value the unique weightiness and tactile characteristics of the Plum switches or the smoothness and visual enhancement offered by the WS Morandi switches. By considering these factors, you will be able to choose the switch that best suits your needs and enhances your typing experience overall.
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