Akko Rosewood vs. Wuque Studio WS Jade
An in-depth look at the Akko Rosewood and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Rosewood and Wuque Studio WS Jade both offer captivating experiences, yet cater to slightly different preferences. The Rosewood is celebrated for its deep, thocky sound profile, enhanced by a factory-applied lubricant that makes each keystroke feel satisfying and robust. This switch is perfect for users who enjoy a quieter typing experience without sacrificing auditory pleasure. In contrast, the WS Jade stands out with its unique metallic insert, which produces a bright and resonant sound that adds a vibrant character to your typing sessions. Additionally, its light diffuser creates an enchanting RGB display, making it an excellent choice for gamers and RGB enthusiasts. Both switches are linear, ensuring a consistent feel without tactile bumps, but their auditory characteristics and aesthetic features set them apart. 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
40g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Akko Rosewood and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches present a fascinating comparison in their choice of housing materials, particularly in how these materials contribute to their unique sound profiles. The Rosewood utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, which is touted for its softer properties. This softness allows nylon to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience when typing. Users of the Rosewood switches are likely to appreciate the rounded sound that emerges during both the keystroke and release due to the considerable sound absorption characteristics of nylon.
In contrast, the WS Jade employs POM for both its top and bottom housings. While POM is also known for its superior acoustic properties, it produces an entirely different sound profile. The resulting auditory experience is described as muted and unique, offering a pleasing depth similar to that of the Rosewood but with its own signature character. The POM material, being gainfully rigid compared to nylon, can yield a distinct tactile feedback that may resonate differently with users, although the overall sound remains grounded and well-rounded.
Despite the use of different materials, the nylon and POM switches can lead to similar typing experiences, particularly in the deeper sound profile they both create. Each housing type affects the auditory experience—nylon's absorption properties dampen the sound for a duller resonance, while POM provides a more pronounced tone that still maintains a soft edge. Therefore, while the materials differ, both the Akko Rosewood and WS Jade ultimately offer users pleasing sound experiences that invite comparison, showcasing how the characteristics of various plastics can be harnessed to achieve similar acoustic results in keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Rosewood linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, their actuation and bottom out forces reveal distinct preferences for typists and gamers alike. The Rosewood features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for those who type for extended periods or prefer a lighter touch during gaming. In contrast, the WS Jade has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial feel that some users may find appealing for its tactile feedback and resistance, ideal for those who favor a stronger push. Consequently, the Rosewood switch is better suited for those seeking a lighter key response, while the WS Jade is more appropriate for those who appreciate a heftier typing experience. Thus, while both switches provide a linear experience, the difference in actuation and bottom out forces allows for varied user preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
The Akko Rosewood linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This distinction means that the Rosewood switch offers a more traditional feel, providing a greater depth with each keystroke. In contrast, the WS Jade’s shorter travel distance might appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, although it can feel too abrupt for some users who favor a more pronounced feedback. Therefore, for those who prioritize a deep and hearty typing experience, the Akko Rosewood is the better choice, while the WS Jade appeals to those looking for responsiveness and speed. Overall, the Rosewood is the longer option, and the WS Jade is the shorter one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko Rosewood has an MSRP of $3.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Rosewood for $3.11.
The Wuque Studio WS Jade comes in at $4.30 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
In terms of sound, the Akko Rosewood linear switch delivers a deep and satisfying thocky tone that typists often appreciate for its rich auditory feedback. The thin layer of factory-applied lubricant enhances this sound profile, allowing it to provide a noise that is both full-bodied and muted, striking a balance that many find enjoyable. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Jade switch offers a distinctly brighter and more resonant sound, featuring a metallic insert in its stem which contributes to its clacky and marbly characteristics. This switch produces sharp, clean, and higher-pitched sounds that have a more pronounced auditory presence. The steely resonance of the WS Jade contrasts with the warmth of the Rosewood, presenting a more vibrant auditory experience while typing.
Regarding the feel, the Akko Rosewood switch is not explicitly described, yet it can be inferred that the switch contributes to a smooth and enjoyable typing experience similar to other linear switches, complemented by its sound characteristics. On the other hand, the WS Jade is known for its silky and creamy feel, providing a uniquely smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance. This buttery sensation, often enhanced by factory lubrication, allows fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys, making the WS Jade a pleasure to type on. The Rosewood's experience may also be smooth, but without explicit descriptions, it is difficult to make a direct comparison.
In conclusion, while both the Akko Rosewood linear switch and Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch offer their own unique audio and tactile experiences, they cater to different preferences. The Rosewood's rich thocky sounds and potentially smooth general feel provide a comforting typing experience while the WS Jade's sharp, resonant acoustics paired with an exceptionally smooth and creamy typing sensation make it captivating for those who appreciate a more vibrant interaction. Depending on individual preferences, users can find that while the two switches embody some differences in sound and feel, both can facilitate an engaging and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Akko Rosewood linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of 50 grams, the Rosewood might be your ideal choice, especially if you enjoy a deep, satisfying thocky sound straight out of the box. This switch excels in providing a rich auditory experience without needing additional modifications, making it perfect for those who favor a more muted but impactful sound profile while typing. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bit more resistance with a medium force of 60 grams, coupled with a bright and resonant sound, the WS Jade is the go-to option. Its unique metallic stem insert creates a clacky and marbly auditory sensation that can be both immersive and engaging, particularly if you’re fond of an enchanting RGB display that enhances your setup. Additionally, the WS Jade’s creamy and silky feel offers an ultra-smooth typing experience, ideal for those who prioritize fluidity and comfort in their keystrokes. Therefore, consider what experience you seek—whether it's the thocky depth of the Rosewood or the crisp resonance of the WS Jade—and make your choice accordingly.