KTT Purple Star vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the KTT Purple Star and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Purple Star stands out for its all-POM construction, providing a buttery smooth typing experience with a light 45g bottom-out that is perfect for those who prefer a softer touch. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch maintains smoothness while incorporating a snappy tactile bump for a more pronounced feedback during typing. Both switches offer a neutral sound signature, making them suitable for quieter work environments. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Purple Star and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile both play a significant role in determining the sound profile of the switches. The Purple Star utilizes POM for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile utilizes polycarbonate for the top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile. This difference in material choice leads to a distinct auditory experience when typing on the switches.
In terms of aesthetics, the Purple Star's POM housing is not as visually striking as the WS Light Tactile's polycarbonate housing, which is clear and allows for RGB lighting to shine through. However, the POM housing of the Purple Star provides a more subdued and understated appearance. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the WS Light Tactile offers a classic look and feel, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Purple Star's POM bottom housing. This difference in material choice for the bottom housing further emphasizes the contrast in sound profiles between the two switches.
Overall, the choice between POM and polycarbonate for the top housing, as well as between POM and nylon for the bottom housing, results in distinct tactile and auditory experiences when using the KTT Purple Star and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches. While both switches offer unique characteristics based on their respective housing materials, users can expect a more muted sound profile with the Purple Star and a crisper sound profile with the WS Light Tactile. Ultimately, the selection of housing materials plays a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience and sound signature of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The KTT Purple Star linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams, offering a consistent typing experience when fully pressed. The lighter actuation force of the Purple Star switch may appeal to users looking for a smoother and faster typing experience, while the WS Light Tactile switch provides a slightly stronger tactile feedback for those who prefer a more pronounced keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and the desired weight of the keys.
Travel distance
The KTT Purple Star linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Purple Star may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the WS Light Tactile switch may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches offer a different feel due to their varying travel distances, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for key activation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88, 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, the Purple Star linear switch offers a low-pitched, bass-heavy tone that is mellow and soothing to the ears. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile tactile switch has a neutral sound profile that is neither too loud nor too quiet, making it a versatile option for various settings. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience without being disruptive to those around you, allowing you to focus on your work or gaming session without distraction.
In terms of feel, the Purple Star linear switch provides a mild and easy-to-press typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a gentle keypress without too much resistance. The WS Light Tactile tactile switch, with its stepped feel and easy-to-press actuation, offers a more nuanced typing experience with a noticeable tactile bump. Both switches aim to reduce finger fatigue during extended typing sessions while providing a responsive and comfortable feel to enhance your overall typing experience.
Considering the subjective qualities of the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, it's clear that both options cater to individuals seeking a smooth and comfortable typing experience with minimal distractions. While the Purple Star switch leans towards a lower-pitched sound and a lighter keypress feel, the WS Light Tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile and a stepped tactile sensation. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, but rest assured that both options will provide a satisfying and enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the KTT Purple Star linear switch or the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you are a light typist who values a smooth typing experience with minimal finger fatigue, the Purple Star may be the ideal choice for you with its easy-to-press and mild feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile bump with a neutral sound profile, the WS Light Tactile switch offers a snappy tactile feedback that enhances your typing experience. Both switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams, making them suitable for those who prefer lighter actuation forces. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your typing style and preference for either a linear or tactile typing experience. Choose the switch that best suits your needs and enjoy a customized typing experience tailored to your preferences.
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