Kailh Plum vs. Wuque Studio WS Red

Overview

The Kailh Plum and the Wuque Studio WS Red are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct characteristics for an enhanced typing experience. The Plum is well-known for its unique tactile feel, as it combines a hefty build with a subtle tactile bump. Unlike most tactile switches, the Plum manages to provide a satisfying typing experience without being overly weighty. Additionally, it boasts a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Red stands out for its bouncy and responsive typing experience. Equipped with a 22mm double-stage spring, these switches offer a familiar sound signature and a heavier actuation force, resulting in a satisfying and substantial keystroke feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Kailh Plum Tactile

Wuque Studio WS Red Linear

$6.25 per 10

$3.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The Kailh Plum and the Wuque Studio WS Red differ in their choice of materials for their top housing. The Plum utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the transparency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. On the other hand, the WS Red features a nylon top housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.

Both the Plum and the WS Red have nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a similar sound profile in terms of depth and fullness. This is because nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. Thus, both switches are likely to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on them. The impact of the bottom housing is more prominent on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch.

While the top and bottom housing materials of the Kailh Plum and the Wuque Studio WS Red differ, they each bring unique qualities to the switches. The polycarbonate top housing of the Plum enhances the overall sound when releasing a key, while the nylon top housing of the WS Red contributes to a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, both switches share the same nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of the desired sound profile and aesthetic considerations such as RGB lighting compatibility.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it is important to consider weight as a significant factor. However, it is unfortunate that the exact actuation force for both switches is unavailable. In terms of bottom out force, the Kailh Plum switch requires 70 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy. On the other hand, the WS Red switch has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 67 grams, also falling under the medium-heavy category.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the WS Red switch might be the preferable choice due to its slightly lower bottom out force. This can allow for typing or gaming for longer periods without causing excessive fatigue. On the contrary, those who crave a more substantial and stronger push feel may lean towards the Kailh Plum switch, as it has a slightly higher bottom out force. This can provide a more pronounced tactile feedback and a more satisfying typing experience.

Therefore, although the exact actuation force is unknown, the comparison of the bottom out forces allows for a distinction between the lighter WS Red switch and the slightly heavier Kailh Plum switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on an individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Plum has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which is a popular choice in the current market. Gamers, in particular, often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Plum with its shorter travel distance would be the better option. However, for those who prefer a more substantial feel, the WS Red's longer travel distance may be more satisfying. It's important to consider personal preference when choosing between the two switches, as the Plum offers a slightly shorter travel distance while the WS Red provides a slightly longer one.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Plum tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. Whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or whether you plan to use these switches at home or work, the Plum offers a sound that is enjoyable and neutral. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the type of keyboard board and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the Plum tactile switch offers a mild typing experience. It falls into the category of mild mechanical keyboard switches, which provide a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The sound and feel of the Plum switch are approachable to most users, as its qualities lie in a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, the Plum switch is described as a stepped switch, meaning it has two stages of tactile feedback. Unlike hypersensitive switches with a big bump throughout the keystroke, stepped switches like the Plum provide a more mild tactile experience, allowing you to feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel.

On the other hand, information about the sound and feel of the WS Red linear switch is unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison. However, based on the available information, we can conclude that the WS Red linear switch offers a bouncy and responsive typing experience. It features a 22mm double-stage spring and a classic material blend, which contribute to a familiar sound signature. The WS Red switch also has a heavier actuation force, giving each keystroke a satisfying and substantial typing feel. While more information would be needed to make a direct comparison between the two switches, it is clear that both the Plum and WS Red switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel.

In summary, the Kailh Plum tactile switch stands out for its unique combination of weightiness and a less pronounced tactile bump. It offers a neutral and enjoyable sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes. The Plum switch also provides a mild typing experience, with a stepped tactile feel that includes pre-travel and/or post-travel sensations. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch offers a bouncy and responsive typing experience, with a familiar sound signature and a heavier actuation force. While the specific sound and feel characteristics of the WS Red switch are unknown, both switches provide their own distinctive qualities to suit different preferences and typing styles. It's important to consider your own preferences and needs when choosing between these two switches.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch that provides a unique typing experience, the Kailh Plum tactile switch would be a great choice. These switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, giving them a substantial feel without an overwhelming tactile bump. The sound profile of Plum switches is considered neutral, making it enjoyable and suitable for various environments. Additionally, the feel of Plum switches can be described as mild and stepped, offering a gentle typing experience with a slight pre-travel or post-travel sensation.

On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a heavier actuation force, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch would be a suitable option. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, these switches add a touch of weight to each keystroke, resulting in a satisfying and substantial typing feel. The WS Red switches also feature a 22mm double-stage spring, providing a bouncy and responsive typing experience. While the sound profile of WS Red switches is not specifically mentioned, it is safe to assume that it retains a familiar sound signature due to its classic material blend, further enhancing the typing experience.

Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch depends on your preferences for tactile feedback, actuation force, and typing experience. Whether you prioritize a unique feel with a neutral sound profile or a heavier actuation force with a bouncy typing experience, both switches offer their own distinct qualities. It is recommended to try out different switches and consider your personal preferences to find the perfect fit for your mechanical keyboard setup. In the end, the decision is yours to make based on your individual needs and preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Plum Tactile

$6.25 per 10

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Wuque Studio WS Red Linear

$3.50 per 10

Learn more