Kailh Sage vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Kailh Sage and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Sage and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile offer unique typing experiences for enthusiasts looking for different qualities in their switches. The Sage is a clicky switch that provides a heavy and sharp clickiness, giving typists an invigorating and crunchy feel while typing. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile is a tactile switch that offers a smooth typing experience with a noticeable tactile bump, along with a neutral sound signature. It is easy-to-press and provides a stepped feel for a satisfying typing experience. Each switch has its own set of qualities that may appeal to different preferences, making it important to consider what you value most in a keyboard switch. 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
70g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the Kailh Sage and Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches feature polycarbonate top housings that offer a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a more resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it ideal for those looking to customize their keyboard with colorful lighting effects. With both switches having the same top housing material, users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics when typing on either switch.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the Sage and WS Light Tactile switches differ, with the Sage featuring a nylon bottom housing and the WS Light Tactile also utilizing nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Despite the slight difference in the switches' bottom housing material, users can still expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel due to the shared characteristic of nylon in the bottom housing.
When considering the overall typing experience of the Kailh Sage and Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches, users will feel the impact of the bottom housing material when pressing down on the keys, resulting in a sound and feel that is influenced by the softer nylon material. Conversely, the sound when releasing a key will be more influenced by the characteristics of the top housing material, such as the stiffer polycarbonate creating a sharper and crisper sound profile. Despite these differences in housing materials, both switches offer a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
The Kailh Sage clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch have differing actuation and bottom out forces. The Sage has an actuation force of None grams, while the WS Light Tactile has an actuation force of 45 grams, making the latter lighter. However, the bottom out force of the Sage is 70 grams, heavier than the WS Light Tactile's 50 grams. The difference in forces means that the Sage provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, while the WS Light Tactile offers a lighter touch for easier typing over extended periods. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Kailh Sage clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Kailh Sage switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Wuque Studio switch. The difference may not be significant, but for those looking for a more responsive key press, the Kailh Sage switch may be the better option. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio switch may appeal to those who prefer a bit more depth in their key presses. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances and will provide similar results in terms of key feel and performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you prefer.
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 Light Tactile comes in at $4.20.
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 satisfying clickiness, reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of environments without being too loud or distracting. While the sound of a switch is affected by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, these descriptions give a good idea of the auditory experience each switch provides.
Moving on to feel, the Kailh Sage switch is described as invigorating and sharp, providing a tactile bump that is both pronounced and reactive. This creates a highly immersive typing sensation for those who enjoy a strong tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch offers a stepped feel, with a more subtle tactile bump that is easy to press. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing fatigue during long typing sessions. Whether you prefer a sharp and intense tactile bump or a smoother, easy-to-press key feel, both switches offer unique typing experiences.
In conclusion, the Kailh Sage clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch provide distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Kailh Sage offers a crunchy and sharp clicky experience with a heavy tactile bump, while the WS Light Tactile switch provides a more neutral sound profile and a lighter, stepped tactile feel. Depending on personal preference and typing style, either switch can offer a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to individual preference for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Kailh Sage clicky switch or the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference in terms of typing experience. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force, invigorating tactile feedback, and a sharp clicky sound, the Kailh Sage switches may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, easy-to-press key presses, and a neutral sound signature, the WS Light Tactile switches may be more suitable for your typing style. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what you value most in a keyboard switch before making your decision.
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