Kailh Sage vs. Wuque Studio WS Jade
An in-depth look at the Kailh Sage and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options come to mind: the Kailh Sage, a clicky switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Jade, a linear switch. The Sage is known for its distinct clicky typing experience, offering a heavy weight and sharp clickiness that is categorized as invigorating and crunchy. On the other hand, the WS Jade stands out for its use of a metallic insert in the stem base, creating a bright and resonant sound profile, along with a light diffuser for an enchanting RGB display. Typing on the WS Jade is described as creamy and smooth, with a rock-solid bottom-out, and is categorized as clacky, marbly, resonant, silky, and creamy. Each switch has its own unique qualities and benefits, making it a tough choice for keyboard enthusiasts. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Sage and the Wuque Studio WS Jade, the biggest difference lies in their top housings. The Sage utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. In contrast, the WS Jade features a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly affect the overall typing experience and preference of the user. While the Sage's polycarbonate top housing allows for a clearer and more resonant sound, the WS Jade's POM top housing provides a more unique and pleasing sound that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housings, both the Sage and the WS Jade opt for materials that contribute to a deeper sound profile. The Sage utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for its ability to create a fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition. Similarly, the WS Jade employs a POM bottom housing, which also contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile. Despite the difference in materials used for the top housings, both switches aim to provide a typing experience that focuses on a deeper and more satisfying sound profile.
Overall, while the Sage and the WS Jade may differ in their choice of top housing materials, they both prioritize creating a satisfying sound profile for the user. Each switch leverages the unique qualities of their housing materials to tailor the typing experience towards specific preferences. Whether you prefer the sharper and resonant sound of the polycarbonate top housing in the Sage or the deeper and more muted sound of the POM top housing in the WS Jade, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Sage clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in their performance. The Kailh Sage has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the WS Jade has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is medium. The difference in actuation force between the two switches results in the WS Jade feeling lighter to press compared to the Kailh Sage, making it potentially more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. However, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Kailh Sage due to its higher bottom out force providing a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference based on desired actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Kailh Sage clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.6mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent travel distance of 3.6mm. Despite being different types of switches (clicky vs linear), their travel distances are identical, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of keypress feel and actuation. In comparison to other switches with varying travel distances, the Sage and WS Jade stand out for their consistent and uniform keypress 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 Jade comes in at $4.30.
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 Kailh Sage clicky switch is known for its crunchy and sharp clickiness, reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch offers a clacky, marbly, and resonant sound profile, creating a bright and percussive typing experience. While both switches provide distinct auditory feedback, the Sage leans towards a crisp and crunchy sound, while the WS Jade offers a more resonant and higher-pitched sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Sage switch provides an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, with a firm actuation force and reactive typing sensation. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade switch offers a silky and creamy typing experience, with smooth keypresses and minimal resistance. The Sage switch emphasizes pronounced feedback and a tactile bump, while the WS Jade switch focuses on a smooth and buttery keystroke feel.
Overall, the Kailh Sage clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a crunchy and sharp clicky sound with pronounced feedback, the Sage switch may be the way to go. Alternatively, if you are looking for a smooth and creamy typing experience with minimal resistance, the WS Jade switch could be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel during typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Kailh Sage clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you enjoy a heavy and sharp clicky typing sensation with a distinct crunchy sound, then the Sage switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and creamy typing feel with a resonant and marbly sound profile, then the WS Jade switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you value most. Consider trying out both switches to see which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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