Huano Strawberry Latte vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the Huano Strawberry Latte and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between options that cater to various tactile preferences and typing experiences. The Huano Strawberry Latte switch is celebrated for its super smooth keystrokes, utilizing the latest molds from Huano to provide a balanced sound profile that avoids being overly quiet or excessively resonant. This switch is an excellent choice for those who appreciate a refined linear experience without distracting audio feedback. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ stands out with its unique all-POM construction, delivering a deep, satisfying "thock" sound signature and a buttery-smooth feel that many typists crave. With characteristics described as "thocky," "low-pitched," and "silky," the WS POM+ appeals to users seeking a more plush auditory experience while they type. Both switches offer distinct advantages depending on your preferences for sound and tactile feedback; 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Strawberry Latte and the Wuque Studio WS POM+, we see distinct differences in their choice of top materials, which significantly impact the overall performance and sound profile of each switch. The Strawberry Latte features a POK top housing, known for its excellent durability and low coefficient of friction, resulting in a smooth typing experience. In contrast, the WS POM+ utilizes traditional POM for its top housing, which is recognized for creating a unique, albeit slightly deeper sound. While both materials aim to provide a satisfying tactile experience, the POK's superior wear resistance and shock durability lead to a switch that is likely to perform more consistently over time, whereas the POM may offer a richer but less durable experience.
The bottom housings of the two switches reflect a notable similarity, with both the Strawberry Latte and the WS POM+ employing nylon and POM, respectively. The Nylon bottom housing in the Strawberry Latte contributes to a deeper, fuller sound due to its softer nature, allowing it to absorb more sound and create a more rounded auditory impression. In tandem, the POM bottom housing of the WS POM+ also provides a deeper and relatively muted sound profile, yet it lacks the absorptive qualities of Nylon, making the resultant sound slightly crisper. Despite these differences, both switches aim for that sought-after deep sound, suggesting that users may experience comparable auditory fulfillment even as the underlying materials contrast.
Ultimately, the way these housing materials interact will determine the overall feel and sound of each switch. The distinct qualities of the top and bottom housings in both switches can lead to differing experiences when a key is pressed and released. For instance, while the Strawberry Latte’s POK top may yield a snappier release due to its lower friction, the nylon bottom's sound absorption brings warmth to the typing experience. Meanwhile, the WS POM+’s top and bottom housing, both made of POM, deliver a more uniform sound profile across all keystrokes. Therefore, while users of either switch may achieve satisfying results through different materials, they can expect to appreciate different nuances in the sounds and tactile sensations offered by each typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Strawberry Latte features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, as less force is required to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the WS POM+ switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, classifying it as medium-light. This additional resistance may appeal to those who prefer a more tactile and substantial typing experience. Consequently, if you favor lighter switches for comfort over extended use, the Strawberry Latte would be the optimal choice, while the WS POM+ may be better suited for users seeking a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
The Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a consistent experience when pressing down on the keys for both switches, as they will feel the same amount of movement when engaging the switch. Because their travel distances match, typists and gamers alike can anticipate similar tactile feedback and responsiveness, which may influence their overall typing experience in a comparable manner.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Strawberry Latte has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Latte for $3.29.
The Wuque Studio WS POM+ comes in at $3.90 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
In terms of sound, the Huano Strawberry Latte exhibits a balanced sound profile that falls nicely between quiet and overly resonant. This makes it a versatile choice for users who prefer something moderate without the extremes of too much noise or excessive dampening. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ boasts a deep, satisfying "thock" sound signature, characterized by a rich, low-pitched tone that resonates pleasantly with every keystroke. It has a more bass-heavy quality that can provide a gratifying auditory feedback, especially appealing for those who enjoy a more pronounced aural experience while typing.
Regarding feel, the Strawberry Latte is best known for its super smooth keystroke experience, thanks to the advanced molds from Huano, allowing for a seamless typing sensation without any extra friction or resistance. Comparatively, the WS POM+ is designed to offer an even more refined feel, being described as buttery and silky, providing a uniformly smooth experience where each keystroke glides effortlessly. The nuances of the POM+ enhance the tactile sensation further, ensuring that users enjoy a typing experience that is both fluid and satisfying.
In conclusion, while the Strawberry Latte offers a balanced sound and smooth typing feel, the WS POM+ elevates the auditory and tactile experience with its deeper "thock" sound and exceptionally smooth keystrokes. Though both switches are designed for a pleasing typing experience, their distinct sound profiles and tactile characteristics cater to different preferences among users. If you’re looking for a well-rounded switch, the Strawberry Latte makes a great case, while the WS POM+ may be the ideal choice for those desiring a more pronounced auditory and tactile feedback. Choosing either one will depend on your specific preferences for sound and feel, as they both deliver quality experiences albeit in slightly different ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch largely depends on your individual preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter touch, the Strawberry Latte with its 45-gram bottom-out force offers a responsive and effortless keystroke, making it ideal for fast-paced typing or gaming scenarios where speed is essential. Its balanced sound profile strikes a middle ground—not too loud nor overly quiet—making it a well-rounded choice for both a casual and focused work environment. On the other hand, if you enjoy a deeper and more pronounced auditory experience, the WS POM+ switch is worth considering. With a medium-light 55-gram bottom-out force, it provides a satisfying thocky sound that appeals to those who appreciate a bit of acoustics with their keystrokes. Furthermore, the buttery and silky feel of the WS POM+ can enhance your overall typing comfort, making it a great choice for long typing sessions. Ultimately, both switches serve specific needs: the Strawberry Latte for those who value lightness and general balance, and the WS POM+ for those seeking auditory depth and luxurious smoothness.
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