SP-Star RedBlue vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the SP-Star RedBlue and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch offer distinct typing experiences. The RedBlue is ideal for those who enjoy a medium-light typing feel with a low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile provides a smooth typing experience with a noticeable tactile bump and a neutral sound signature. While the RedBlue switch caters to those looking for a thocky and polished typing experience, the WS Light Tactile switch is perfect for users who prefer an easy-to-press switch with a snappy tactile feedback. 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
57g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the SP-Star RedBlue and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it particularly beneficial for switches designed for RGB lighting. In contrast, while the RedBlue utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing as well, the WS Light Tactile opts for a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder overall sound.
The distinction between the polycarbonate top housings of the RedBlue and the WS Light Tactile lies in their applications and effects on sound production. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches ensures a clear and resonant sound, with the added benefit of being suitable for RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, the different bottom housing materials provide a unique typing experience for each switch. The RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing complements its top housing, while the WS Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This contrast highlights how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch.
In comparing the housing materials of the SP-Star RedBlue and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile, it is evident that while they both utilize polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound profile, their bottom housing materials differ, resulting in varying sound experiences. The use of nylon in the WS Light Tactile's bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, whereas the polycarbonate bottom housing of the RedBlue maintains consistency with its top housing for a clear and resonant sound. Understanding how different housing materials influence sound production can help keyboard enthusiasts make informed decisions based on their preferences for sound characteristics. Ultimately, both switches offer unique typing experiences based on the combination of their housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that there are significant differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The SP-Star RedBlue switch has no specified actuation force and a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which overall makes it a lighter switch compared to the RedBlue. The actuation force in the WS Light Tactile switch is slightly lighter than the RedBlue, while the bottom out force is also lighter in the WS Light Tactile switch. This means that the user might experience a more effortless keystroke with the WS Light Tactile switch compared to the RedBlue switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for typing feel and force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, users will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. As a result, the tactile feeling and overall typing experience will be similar for both switches. Since both switches have the same travel distance, there is no difference in terms of which one is shorter or longer. Users can expect consistent performance and feedback from both switches due to their identical travel distances.
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 Light Tactile comes in at $4.20 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 SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offers a low-pitched and thocky sound profile, providing a satisfying deep tone when pressed. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch has a neutral sound signature that is suitable for a variety of purposes. While the RedBlue switch offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, the WS Light Tactile switch maintains a smooth sound without any extreme characteristics. Depending on your choice of keyboard and keycaps, the sound of each switch may vary slightly.
In terms of feel, the SP-Star RedBlue switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and refined feel during key presses. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch is described as stepped and easy-to-press, providing a comfortable and low-impact typing feel. The RedBlue switch falls into a middle-ground zone with its approachable qualities, while the WS Light Tactile switch offers a more subtle tactile experience with distinct pre-travel and post-travel sensations. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience in their own unique ways.
Overall, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the RedBlue switch provides a deeper and more traditional sound with a polished typing feel, the WS Light Tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile and an easy-to-press tactile sensation. Depending on your preferences, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that you'll get similar results in terms of quality and performance. Just remember to consider your personal preferences and intended use case when choosing between these two switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile and a polished feel, the RedBlue switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light tactile switch with a neutral sound signature and an easy-to-press feel, the WS Light Tactile switch could be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to your personal preference for typing feel, sound profile, and actuation force. Choose wisely based on what best fits your typing needs and preferences.
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