Kailh Sage vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow

Overview

When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Sage and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow. The Kailh Sage is a clicky switch that offers a distinct typing experience with its invigorating, sharp, and crunchy feel. Notably, these switches have a heavier weight and a refreshingly sharp clickiness. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow is a linear switch that combines classic materials with cutting-edge engineering. It boasts a 22mm double-stage spring at its core, resulting in a delightful typing experience with a satisfying bounce. What sets the WS Yellow apart is its lightweight design, offering effortless keystrokes and a smooth and fluid typing experience. Furthermore, enthusiasts appreciate the familiar sound signature that these switches provide. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide which switch suits your preferences and typing style.

By the numbers

Kailh Sage Clicky

Wuque Studio WS Yellow Linear

$6.25 per 10

$3.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Kailh Sage and Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches differ in their composition, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The Sage utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic that produces a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the WS Yellow features a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and generates a duller and rounder tone. Therefore, while the Sage produces a vibrant and sharp sound, the WS Yellow offers a more mellow and deep audio experience.

Moving to the bottom housing, both switches employ nylon as a classic housing material. This commonality ensures that typing on both the Sage and WS Yellow results in a similar deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's characteristic of being a softer plastic enables it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, contributing to a duller and rounder sound in both switches. Therefore, despite the differences in their top housing materials, the Sage and WS Yellow share a comparable typing experience due to their shared nylon bottom housing.

However, it is important to note that the housing materials of the top and bottom of a switch can have separate effects on its sound and feel. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. In this aspect, the Sage's nylon bottom housing and the WS Yellow's nylon bottom housing will yield similar results, producing a deeper and fuller sound upon pressing. Conversely, the impact on sound when releasing a key is more influenced by the top housing. Thus, the polycarbonate top housing of the Sage will provide a distinct sound when compared to the WS Yellow's nylon top housing, resulting in a crisper and higher-pitched sound upon key release.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Sage clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, we can see some notable differences. The actuation force of both switches is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare them. However, the Kailh Sage has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is classified as medium-heavy, while the WS Yellow has a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorized as medium-light.

For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, the WS Yellow may be the better choice, as its lower bottom out force allows for easier keystrokes. This can be advantageous for those who require extended periods of typing, such as in a work or gaming environment. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage provides a more substantial and tactile typing experience with its higher bottom out force. This can appeal to users who enjoy a stronger push and desire a more pronounced feedback when typing.

Considering the weight of the switches, it becomes evident that both have their respective advantages. Those seeking a lighter switch may opt for the WS Yellow to enable longer typing sessions without causing excessive strain. Conversely, individuals who value a more forceful keystroke and desire a satisfying sensation may prefer the Kailh Sage.

In conclusion, while the actuation forces for both switches are unspecified, the Kailh Sage exhibits a heavier bottom out force compared to the WS Yellow. The choice between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference, with weight being a key factor to consider in determining the ideal typing experience.

Travel distance

The Kailh Sage clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch have different travel distances. The Sage has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Yellow has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both of these distances fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular in keyboards. Shorter travel distances are favored by gamers as they provide faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Sage would be the better choice due to its slightly shorter travel distance. However, for those who prefer a deeper key press, the WS Yellow with its slightly longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience desired.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Kailh Sage switch is known for its distinct "crunchy" sound. This sound is commonly associated with clicky switches and can be compared to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the sound quality of the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switch is not specified in the provided information. However, it is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is influenced by various factors, including the keyboard board and keycaps used. So while the specific sound of the WS Yellow switch is unknown, you can expect to achieve similar results by considering these additional aspects in your setup.

In terms of feel, the Kailh Sage switch offers an invigorating and sharp tactile experience. It provides pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. The tactile bump in this switch is strong and crisp, resulting in a highly noticeable feedback sensation with each keypress. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switch provides a creamy, mild, and polished typing experience. The creamy sensation reflects a smooth and buttery feel, possibly due to lubrication applied at the factory or specific materials used. The mild aspect suggests a more gentle typing experience, suitable for most users, as it falls within a safe middle-ground zone. Lastly, a polished switch indicates a sleek and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.

In conclusion, the Kailh Sage clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Sage switch provides a sharp and crunchy sound, combined with an invigorating and sharp tactile feel. Meanwhile, the WS Yellow switch remains unknown regarding sound, but delivers a creamy, mild, and polished typing experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. For those seeking a satisfying clicky experience with pronounced feedback, the Sage switch is a suitable choice. On the other hand, the WS Yellow switch is ideal for those who prefer a smooth and effortless typing sensation. By considering other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps, you can further customize and enhance the sound and feel of these switches to suit your personal preferences.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a distinct clicky typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, then the Kailh Sage switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a heavy weight and a refreshingly sharp clickiness, providing an invigorating and sharp tactile feel. The sound of the Sage switches can be described as crunchy, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves.

On the other hand, if you prefer a lightweight switch with a medium-light bottom out force, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch would suit your needs. With a 22mm double-stage spring at its core, these switches offer a delightful typing experience, delivering a satisfying bounce. The WS Yellow switches are known for their creamy, mild, and polished characteristics, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction.

Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Sage clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch depends on your personal preferences for weight, tactile feel, and sound. Consider the type of typing experience you desire, whether it be a crisp and sharp clickiness or a smooth and effortless keystroke. Both switches offer their own unique qualities that will enhance your typing experience. In the end, choose the switch that resonates with your preferences and enjoy the satisfying sensation of typing on a high-quality mechanical keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Sage Clicky

$6.25 per 10

Learn more

Wuque Studio WS Yellow Linear

$3.50 per 10

Learn more