SP-Star RedBlue vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the SP-Star RedBlue and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two standout options are the SP-Star RedBlue and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile. The RedBlue is a linear switch that offers a medium-light typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a smoother keystroke. With its higher-pitched sound profile, it provides a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch from Wuque Studio is a tactile switch that takes typing to a whole new level. With a pronounced tactile bump and a satisfying resistance of 70g, each keystroke is an engaging and immersive journey. It also offers a captivating "thocky" sound profile, thanks to Wuque Studio's nylon housings. Both switches have their unique qualities and advantages, ensuring a delightful typing experience for different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The SP-Star RedBlue and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile differ in terms of their housing materials. The RedBlue features a polycarbonate top housing, while the WS Heavy Tactile utilizes a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, nylon absorbs more sound and produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, those who prefer a sharper and clearer sound may lean towards the RedBlue with its polycarbonate top housing, while those who enjoy a deeper and fuller sound may favor the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon top housing.
In terms of their bottom housings, the RedBlue has a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the WS Heavy Tactile uses a nylon bottom housing. Similar to the top housing, the polycarbonate in the RedBlue creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing in the WS Heavy Tactile absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing of a switch has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, so those who prefer a switch with a sharper and crisper bottom-out experience may opt for the RedBlue, while those who prefer a softer and more rounded bottom-out may choose the WS Heavy Tactile.
In summary, the SP-Star RedBlue and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile exhibit differences in their housing materials. The polycarbonate used in the RedBlue's top and bottom housings creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the nylon in the WS Heavy Tactile's top and bottom housings produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The choice between these switches will ultimately depend on individual preferences regarding sound characteristics and the desired typing experience. However, if both switches have similar top and bottom housings, they are likely to provide similar results in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, it is clear that they offer distinct experiences for keyboard users. The RedBlue switch has an actuation force that is currently unknown, and a bottom out force of 57 grams, which falls into the medium-light category. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch also has an unknown actuation force but a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, placing it in the light range.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer lighter switches as it enables them to type for longer periods, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. However, for those who desire a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push, a switch with a heavier actuation force would be more suitable.
While the specific actuation forces for both switches are unavailable, it is apparent that the RedBlue switch offers a slightly heavier bottom out force compared to the WS Heavy Tactile switch. Therefore, those seeking a slightly more tactile and forceful typing experience may find the RedBlue switch more suitable. Alternatively, individuals who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming may find the WS Heavy Tactile switch to be a better fit. Despite the lack of specific actuation force information, users can expect similar results regarding actuation and bottom out forces based on their respective categorizations.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that the RedBlue has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Heavy Tactile has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. The RedBlue falls into the category of the most traditional travel distance, offering a more standard depth when pressing down the key. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile falls into the shallower range of travel distances. Gamers, in particular, tend to favor shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the RedBlue a suitable choice for them. However, individuals who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may find the longer travel distance of the WS Heavy Tactile more appealing. Overall, the choice between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference, whether it be for responsiveness or a deeper typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
The Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile comes in at $3.50 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 comparing the subjective qualities of the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch in terms of sound, we can see that they offer distinct auditory experiences. The RedBlue switch has a relatively higher-pitched sound profile and is described as "thocky," providing a deep and satisfying sound reminiscent of a "thud" or a soft "knock" when pressed. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a more "clacky" sound that is sharp, bright, and percussive. It has a higher-pitched, resonant sound profile, making each keystroke an immersive auditory experience. However, it is important to note that the sound produced by the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the RedBlue linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. It is considered mild because it provides a gentle typing experience without any overwhelming characteristics. The switch has a smooth and refined finish, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers an invigorating and pronounced tactile experience. It is described as accented, meaning it falls between a subtle and overwhelming level of tactility. The switch provides a moderate to firm actuation force, creating a snappy and reactive feel during typing. Additionally, it is mentioned that the switch is bouncy, giving a spring-like feedback sensation and a lively feel to each keypress. The WS Heavy Tactile switch also falls under the category of sharp tactile switches, providing a high feedback intensity with a strong and crisp tactile bump felt distinctly with each keypress. Furthermore, it is noted that the switch is snappy, indicating that it is highly responsive and offers a more alive typing experience due to longer or dual-staged springs.
Based on the available information, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch have notable differences in sound and feel. The RedBlue switch offers a low-pitched, thocky sound profile and a mild, polished typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch provides a clacky, high-pitched, resonant sound profile and an invigorating, accented, bouncy, sharp, and snappy feel. These switches cater to different preferences, with the RedBlue switch being suited for those who prefer a medium-light typing experience and the WS Heavy Tactile switch providing a pronounced tactile bump and satisfying resistance. It is important to consider personal preferences and the desired typing experience when choosing between these switches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience and enjoy a relatively higher-pitched sound profile with a satisfying auditory feedback, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a neutral sound profile that is suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various settings. Additionally, the RedBlue switches provide a mild and polished feel, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience.
On the other hand, if you are seeking a tactile switch with a profound and pronounced tactile bump, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch is the way to go. With an actuation force of 70 grams, these switches offer a satisfying resistance and an engaging and immersive journey while typing. The WS Heavy Tactile switches present a captivating sound profile with its "thocky" resonance, providing a deep and rich sound when pressed.
Overall, both switches have their unique characteristics and cater to different preferences. The RedBlue switches are ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience with a neutral and polished feel, while the WS Heavy Tactile switches are perfect for users who enjoy a heavier and more pronounced tactile experience with a resonant and clacky sound profile.
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