Kailh Sage vs. Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear
An in-depth look at the Kailh Sage and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Kailh Sage, a clicky switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear, a linear switch. The Sage is best known for its distinct clicky typing experience. With heavy weight and a refreshingly sharp clickiness, it provides a satisfying feedback for those who prefer a tactile feel while typing. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear linear switches offer a smooth and high-pitched typing experience. Featuring a transparent polycarbonate top housing and UHMWPE bottom housing, these switches allow for maximum RGB lighting customization. The lightly lubed POM stem ensures minimal friction and a buttery smooth keystroke. Both switches have their unique qualities and cater to different preferences. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Double-staged stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Sage and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material is known for creating a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. Due to its stiffness, polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Both switches also benefit from polycarbonate's translucency, making it ideal for RGB lighting. Therefore, in terms of sound and aesthetics, users can expect similar results from these two switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Sage features a nylon material while the WS Aurora Clear utilizes UHWMPE (Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene). Nylon is a classic switch housing material renowned for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softness allows for better sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, UHWMPE is a newer material that offers a very bright sound signature. It provides a resonant clack when typing on switches with this particular housing. Therefore, users will experience a noticeable difference in sound between the bottom housings of the Sage and the WS Aurora Clear.
In terms of overall typing experience, the bottom housing of a switch has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. As the Sage and the WS Aurora Clear differ in their bottom housing materials, the qualities associated with each material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. This means that users will feel the impact of the Sage's nylon bottom housing during bottoming out, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound, while experiencing a sharper clack with the WS Aurora Clear's UHWMPE bottom housing. Furthermore, the sound when releasing a key will be influenced by the polycarbonate top housing in both switches, resulting in a similar crisp and resonant sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Sage clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, there are both similarities and differences to consider. The actuation force of the Sage is unfortunately unavailable, while the WS Aurora Clear requires 53 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Sage requires 70 grams, which can be classified as medium-heavy, while the WS Aurora Clear requires 63.5 grams, also falling within the medium-heavy category.
Looking at weight alone, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, which is particularly advantageous for keyboards used at work or during lengthy gaming sessions. On the other hand, some users may prefer a stronger push feel to enhance the typing experience, giving them a more substantial sensation. For these individuals, switches with heavier forces would be more suitable.
In terms of the switches mentioned, while the exact actuation force of the Sage is unknown, it can be inferred that it may likely be heavier than the WS Aurora Clear, as the latter requires 53 grams of force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Sage is slightly heavier at 70 grams compared to the 63.5 grams required by the WS Aurora Clear. Therefore, if a heavier actuation force is desired, the Sage would be the better option, while those seeking a slightly lighter bottom out force might prefer the WS Aurora Clear. Despite these nuanced differences, both switches can provide similar results for individuals looking to achieve medium-heavy actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Kailh Sage clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch have different travel distances. The Sage has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Aurora Clear has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the WS Aurora Clear has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Sage.
In terms of preference, shorter travel distances are favored by gamers who desire faster response times. The Sage with its 3.6 mm travel distance would be a suitable choice for these individuals. On the other hand, some people may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. For those who prefer a more substantial key press, the WS Aurora Clear with its 3.8 mm travel distance would be a better option.
It is important to note that both switch options provide a reasonable range of travel distances and can deliver similar results depending on personal preference. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the individual's specific needs and preferred typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear comes in at $8.00.
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
The Kailh Sage clicky switch is best known for its distinct clicky typing experience, offering a refreshingly sharp and heavy clickiness. When it comes to sound, the Sage switches have been described as producing a crunchy sound, similar to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear linear switch provides a smooth and high-pitched typing experience. These switches produce a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, which is ideal for those who prefer a higher-pitched sound profile. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Sage switch offers an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. The sharp tactile bump of the switch is prominent and can be felt distinctly with each keypress, ensuring a satisfying typing experience. Conversely, the WS Aurora Clear switch provides a buttery and mild typing experience. It offers a smooth and fluid keystroke, resulting in a seamless and effortless typing sensation. With a polished finish, these switches have reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Based on the available information, it is clear that the Kailh Sage clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities. The Sage switch provides a heavy and sharp clickiness with invigorating and sharp tactile feedback. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear switch offers a smooth and high-pitched typing experience with a buttery and mild feel. Both switches provide unique features and it ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a crunchy, heavy clicky experience, the Sage switch is a great choice. If you prefer a smooth, high-pitched typing experience, the WS Aurora Clear switch would be a suitable option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavier weight and sharp clickiness, the Kailh Sage switch is a great choice for you. It offers an invigorating and sharp tactile feel with pronounced feedback, creating an immersive and reactive typing sensation. The Sage also produces a crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves.
On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and high-pitched typing experience, along with maximum RGB lighting customization, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switch is the way to go. With a transparent polycarbonate top housing and UHMWPE bottom housing, these switches provide a buttery and polished feel, resulting in a seamless and effortless typing experience. The WS Aurora Clear switch produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, catering to those who prefer a higher-pitched profile.
Ultimately, your choice between the Kailh Sage clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch depends on your preference for clicky or linear switches, as well as the weight, sound, and feel that aligns with your typing style and preferences. Consider the qualities and characteristics described to make an informed decision tailored to your personal typing needs.
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