SP-Star RedBlue vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the SP-Star RedBlue and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, there are a couple of options that offer unique qualities worth considering. The SP-Star RedBlue is a linear switch that provides a medium-light typing experience. With a relatively higher-pitched sound profile and categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished', it appeals to those looking for a specific sound and feel while typing. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch offers a different approach. Designed with precision and ideal for office and work environments, these switches strike a delicate balance between tactility and noise reduction. Categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Muted', they provide a satisfyingly crisp bottom-out and responsive return, all while maintaining an impressively silent profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star RedBlue and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile differ in terms of their properties and resulting sound profiles. The RedBlue utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, providing a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile features nylon for both its top and bottom housing. Typing on these switches elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound.
When comparing the top and bottom housings within each switch, the properties of the material are split between them. Pressing down on the RedBlue switch, the qualities of the polycarbonate bottom housing will be felt, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel during typing. Similarly, the top housing of the RedBlue will have a greater impact on the sound produced when letting go of a key. This division of properties applies to the WS Silent Tactile as well, with the nylon bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the nylon top housing plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key.
While the housing materials of the RedBlue and WS Silent Tactile differ, they both exhibit distinct sound profiles based on their respective properties. The polycarbonate used in the RedBlue creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the softer nylon material in the WS Silent Tactile produces deeper and fuller sounds. Despite these differences, the intention behind both housing materials remains the same: to enhance the overall typing experience by providing unique sound and tactile feedback. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of improved sound quality and overall satisfaction when using either switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch, we find some similarities and differences. Firstly, it is important to note that the actuation force of both switches is unknown. However, we can still compare their bottom out forces. The SP-Star RedBlue switch has a bottom out force of 57 grams, which falls in the medium-light range. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is slightly heavier, falling in the medium-heavy range.
Weight is a crucial consideration when choosing between these switches. Some individuals prefer a lighter actuation force as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. This makes it an ideal choice for work or extended gaming sessions. Conversely, others may prefer a stronger push feel to enhance typing experience. These individuals should opt for switches with heavier forces.
While the actuation force remains unknown for both switches, it is worth mentioning that the SP-Star RedBlue and Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches provide different levels of resistance during bottoming out. The SP-Star RedBlue switch offers a medium-light force of 57 grams, which delivers a satisfying tactile response without being too heavy. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience.
In conclusion, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is lighter in terms of bottom out force, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch is heavier. Despite the unknown actuation force, individuals seeking a lighter typing experience may find the SP-Star RedBlue switch more suitable, whereas those who prefer a more substantial push feel can opt for the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch. Ultimately, both switches offer different levels of resistance, catering to the diverse preferences of keyboard enthusiasts.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is 4.0 mm, while the travel distance of the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch is 3.5 mm. In terms of travel distance, the RedBlue switch has a slightly longer distance compared to the WS Silent Tactile switch. The RedBlue switch has a more traditional travel distance, while the WS Silent Tactile switch falls into the shorter travel distance category. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the WS Silent Tactile switch, as it allows for quicker keystrokes. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial and immersive typing experience may opt for the RedBlue switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and whether you value speed or depth in your 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 Silent 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 comparing the sound qualities of the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The RedBlue switch is described as having a relatively higher-pitched sound profile, with a thocky and low-pitched characteristic. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch is known for its neutral sound profile, with a soft and muted sound that minimizes noise. The RedBlue switch provides a deeper and more satisfying sound when pressed, while the WS Silent Tactile switch offers a quieter and softer sound. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps. Overall, if you prefer a higher-pitched and thocky sound, the RedBlue switch would be a suitable choice. Alternatively, if you prefer a quieter and softer sound profile, the WS Silent Tactile switch would be more suitable.
In terms of feel, the RedBlue linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. With its mild characteristics, the RedBlue switch provides a gentle and approachable typing experience that appeals to most users. The polished finish of the switch adds to the smoothness and refined feel, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch is described as accented, meaning it provides a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. This switch offers a pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, creating an invigorating typing sensation. Additionally, the WS Silent Tactile switch also falls into the mild category, offering a gentle typing experience. Overall, if you prefer a switch with a mild and polished feel, the RedBlue switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a switch with an accented and invigorating feel, the WS Silent Tactile switch would be more suitable.
In conclusion, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The RedBlue switch provides a higher-pitched and thocky sound profile, along with a mild and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch offers a neutral, muted sound profile that minimizes noise, along with an accented and invigorating typing experience. It's important to consider personal preferences when choosing between these switches, as the RedBlue switch would be preferred by those who enjoy a higher-pitched and thocky sound, along with a mild and polished feel. Meanwhile, the WS Silent Tactile switch would be a better fit for those who prefer a quieter and softer sound, along with an accented and invigorating feel. However, it's worth mentioning that individual results may vary depending on other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who prefers a medium-light typing experience and enjoys a higher-pitched sound profile, then the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter work environment without compromising on tactility, then the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch is the way to go. These switches strike a delicate balance, offering a medium level of tactility while maintaining an impressively silent profile. In terms of sound, the RedBlue has a low-pitched and thocky profile, while the WS Silent Tactile offers a neutral and muted sound. When it comes to feel, the RedBlue provides a mild and polished typing experience, while the WS Silent Tactile offers an accented, invigorating, or mild tactile feel. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences and the specific environment in which you will be using your mechanical keyboard. Overall, both switches have their own unique qualities and are designed to enhance your typing experience in different ways.
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