Huano Sakura vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the Huano Sakura and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves choosing between various options based on their unique characteristics and preferences. The Huano Sakura switch stands out with its feather-light touch and medium acoustics, making it an ideal choice for those who engage in extended typing sessions and desire a smooth, fatigue-free experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switch introduces a masterful blend of classic materials and innovative engineering, highlighted by its 22mm double-stage spring that enhances the typing experience with a satisfying bounce. Both switches are designed to offer lightweight operation and fluid keystrokes; however, the Sakura leans towards a more subdued auditory profile while the WS Yellow appeals to enthusiasts seeking a polished sound signature. Ultimately, while both switches present compelling benefits for different typing styles and preferences, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Sakura and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches, a notable distinction lies in the top housing material. The Huano Sakura switches utilize POK (polyketone) for their top housing, which offers an impressive coefficient of friction of 0.04, resulting in a very smooth keypress compared to the WS Yellow's nylon top housing with a friction level of 0.03. POK is recognized for its outstanding durability, boasting wear resistance that is 14 times stronger than POM and superior shock resistance compared to nylon. This means that, while both switches provide smooth operation, the Sakura’s top housing potentially contributes to a more durable and responsive experience.
In contrast, both the Huano Sakura and Wuque Studio WS Yellow employ nylon for their bottom housings, which creates a notable similarity in terms of sound profile. The use of nylon—a classic switch housing material—yields a deeper and fuller sound due to its relatively softer nature, allowing it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. This shared characteristic in their bottom housings means that both switches should deliver a rounder and more subdued acoustical feedback during typing. Therefore, while the POK material in the Sakura contributes to an overall slicker experience, the commonality in nylon usage for the bottom housing helps to mitigate the disparity in sound quality between the two.
Ultimately, the combined effects of the different top and bottom housing materials in the Huano Sakura and Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches create a unique typing experience for each. The Sakura's POK top housing ensures a smooth actuation, while its nylon bottom housing produces a rich sound profile. Meanwhile, the WS Yellow switches achieve their sound character entirely through the nylon across both housings. This results in the Sakura switch providing a more dynamic response due to its distinctive top housing, while still benefiting from the rounded sound characteristic shared by both models. In essence, while the materials differ at the upper end, both switches leverage nylon in their lower housing to create a satisfying auditory experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Huano Sakura linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, noticeable differences emerge. The Sakura switch features a light actuation force of 35 grams, complemented by a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a favorable option for prolonged typing or gaming sessions due to its lower resistance. In contrast, while the actuation force of the WS Yellow is not specified, its bottom out force is recorded at 53 grams, which indicates a somewhat heavier feel when fully pressed down. This suggests that the WS Yellow may afford a more substantial tactile experience compared to the Sakura, which could appeal to users who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, the Sakura is the lighter switch between the two, making it ideal for those who prioritize comfort over extended use, while the WS Yellow leans towards a medium-light experience that may appeal to users seeking a balance between ease and feedback.
Travel distance
The Huano Sakura linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the Sakura the shorter option, providing a more responsive press, which is often favored by gamers looking for quicker actuation times. On the other hand, the WS Yellow's longer travel distance may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel and a gradual response while typing or gaming. This difference in travel distance can significantly affect the user experience, as those who favor a more tactile feedback might find the WS Yellow more satisfying, while those who prioritize speed may lean toward the Sakura.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Sakura has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura for $3.29.
The Wuque Studio WS Yellow comes in at $3.50 per 10 switches.
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 Huano Sakura linear switch presents a medium acoustic profile, making it suitable for extended typing sessions without being overly loud or distracting. This balance allows for a pleasant auditory experience, ensuring that the sound is neither too muted nor too pronounced. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch delivers a familiar sound signature that mechanical keyboard enthusiasts appreciate. While the WS Yellow's exact sound characteristics are not explicitly detailed, it can be deduced that its classic materials and craftsmanship provide a satisfying auditory response, akin to the Sakura's medium acoustics. Therefore, users can expect similar sound experiences from both switches, though the precise nuances may vary based on individual preferences and the keyboard setup.
In terms of feel, the Sakura switch is known for its feather-light touch, making it particularly appealing for those who type for long periods. This lightness facilitates swift keystrokes and minimizes finger fatigue. On the other hand, the WS Yellow is characterized by its creamy texture, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience that is further enhanced by a 22mm double-stage spring. Additionally, it has mild and polished qualities, resulting in a gentle but satisfying tactile response and a reduced friction finish. Collectively, these features suggest that while both switches aim for ease of typing, the WS Yellow perhaps offers a more luxurious experience due to its multi-faceted smoothness and bounce.
In conclusion, choosing between the Huano Sakura and Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switches ultimately hinges on the type of typing experience you desire. If you prioritize a lightweight, medium acoustic feel, the Sakura serves well for prolonged usage. Conversely, if you seek a switch with a creamy, polished touch for more dynamic typing, the WS Yellow might be your best bet. Despite their differences in feel, both switches promise to facilitate light keystrokes and a relatively enjoyable sound profile, ensuring that you won't go wrong with either choice depending on your personal typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Huano Sakura linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, it’s essential to consider your specific typing preferences and needs. If you prioritize a light touch for extended typing sessions, the Sakura will suit you well, offering a feather-light keystroke with a medium acoustic profile that keeps noise levels manageable. Its smooth and polished feel makes it an excellent choice for anyone who enjoys a more effortless typing experience without sacrificing comfort. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a slightly firmer feel and a more satisfying bounce, the WS Yellow linear switch might be the better option for you. With its medium-light bottom-out force and creamy typing sensation, it provides a delightful blend of traditional and modern design elements, delivering a polished performance that feels both familiar and enjoyable. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing style, whether you lean towards a lightweight, smooth touch or prefer a bit of bounce and a well-rounded feel.
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