Kailh Sage vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the Kailh Sage and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Sage and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile. The Sage switches are known for their distinct clicky typing experience, offering a heavy weight and refreshingly sharp clickiness. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switches by Wuque strike a delicate balance, providing a medium level of tactility while minimizing noise. Crafted with precision, these switches deliver a satisfyingly crisp bottom-out and responsive return, all while maintaining an impressively silent profile. The Sage switches are categorized as 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Crunchy', while the WS Silent Tactile switches have categories such as 'Accented', 'Mild', and 'Muted'. Each switch has its own unique features and advantages, but 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Kailh Sage and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches differ in terms of their impact on the sound profile. The Sage features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate's stiff nature, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile utilizes a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite these differences, both switch variants offer advantages in terms of sound customization options, particularly if RGB lighting is desired, as polycarbonate's translucency enhances the visual experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Sage and the WS Silent Tactile feature nylon housing. This choice of material allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a mellower and more rounded sound experience. As a classic switch housing material, nylon offers consistent performance across different switches, providing typists with a reliable and satisfying sound feedback.
It is worth noting that the impact of the top and bottom housing materials can be felt differently when using a switch. While pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing, whether it is nylon or polycarbonate, will have a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, when releasing a key, the top housing material will play a more significant role in determining the sound produced. Therefore, understanding the housing materials used in switches allows for customization and optimization based on individual sound preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Sage clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, it is worth noting that the exact actuation force for both switches is unavailable. However, the Kailh Sage has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 63.5 grams, also classified as medium-heavy.
Weight is an important consideration when it comes to switch selection. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force may find that they are able to type for longer periods without experiencing fatigue, making this option ideal for work or prolonged gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer a switch with a heavier actuation force, as it provides a stronger push feel.
While the specific actuation forces are unknown for both switches, it can be assumed that by comparison, the actuation forces of the Sage and WS Silent Tactile are likely to yield similar results. This means that users can expect a comparable trigger for keystrokes across both switches, despite their slightly different bottom out forces.
Ultimately, the decision between the Kailh Sage clicky switch and the WS Silent Tactile tactile switch hinges on individual preference. Those who value a lighter typing experience may lean towards the WS Silent Tactile, while those desiring a more substantial feel may prefer the Kailh Sage.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Sage clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, we can see that the Sage has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Silent Tactile has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become increasingly popular, particularly among gamers seeking faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to most users, and both options would provide similar results in terms of responsiveness. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the Sage with its longer travel distance may be the preferred choice, as shorter travel distances can sometimes feel too abrupt. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Silent 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 offers a distinctive and refreshing clicky experience. It is known for its heavy weight and a sharp clickiness that resembles stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch has a neutral sound profile with a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. It falls under the category of muted switches, which minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. However, it is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Kailh Sage switch provides an invigorating typing sensation with its pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. Its sharp tactile bump can be distinctly felt with each keypress. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch offers an accented feel, which means it provides a moderate amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It also falls under the category of invigorating switches, providing pronounced feedback and a moderate to firm actuation force. Additionally, it has a mild characteristic that offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced features. This makes it approachable to most users as it stands in a safe, middle-ground zone.
In conclusion, the Kailh Sage clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Sage clicky switch provides a crunchy and sharp clicky sound along with an invigorating and sharp tactile feel. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that is muted and a feel that is accented and invigorating, with a touch of mildness. While the Sage switch is more focused on delivering a distinct clicky experience, the WS Silent Tactile switch aims to strike a delicate balance between tactile feedback and noise reduction. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user. However, it is important to consider other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, as they can also affect the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are seeking a switch with a distinct clicky typing experience and a heavier weight, the Kailh Sage switches would be an excellent choice for you. These switches offer a satisfyingly sharp clickiness and an invigorating typing sensation. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet and tranquil work environment, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches would be a perfect companion. These switches strike a delicate balance by providing a medium level of tactility while effectively minimizing switch sound. With their unique stem railings and absence of silicone dampeners, the WS Silent Tactile switches offer a crisp bottom-out and responsive return, all while maintaining an impressively silent profile. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to individual preferences and priorities, whether you value the distinct clicky experience and heavier weight of the Sage switches or the quiet and tactile qualities of the WS Silent Tactile switches. Overall, both switches offer excellent options for different typing preferences and environments.
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