Everglide Tourmaline Blue vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ are two intriguing linear options that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Tourmaline Blue is celebrated for its deep, thocky sound profile that enhances the tactile experience while typing. Its lengthened single-stage spring contributes to a bouncy feel, making it widely appreciated for its accessibility and enjoyable performance, especially for those new to mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the WS POM+ impresses with its all-POM construction, offering a smooth, buttery keystroke that many enthusiasts crave, along with a similarly satisfying "thock" sound. Both switches provide a distinct auditory and tactile experience, making them excellent choices for various users, depending on whether one prefers the playful bounce of the Tourmaline Blues or the silky journey of the WS POM+. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Everglide Tourmaline Blue Linear

Wuque Studio WS POM+ Linear

$6.86

$3.89 per 10

$3.90 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Tourmaline Blue and the Wuque Studio WS POM+, significant differences can be observed in both their material compositions and the resultant sound profiles. The Tourmaline Blue features polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, which is known for its stiffness and ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The clarity and resonance associated with polycarbonate give these switches a distinctive acoustic signature, making them ideal for users who prefer a crisper auditory feedback. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the RGB lighting effects, allowing for a visually appealing aesthetic when using illuminated keyboards.

In contrast, the WS POM+ utilizes POM (Polyoxymethylene) for both its top and bottom housings, which delivers a deeper and more muted sound profile compared to polycarbonate. POM's inherent properties create a unique auditory experience that is appreciated by enthusiasts seeking a more subdued, yet still pleasing sound. This difference in material characteristics means that the two switches will feel and sound quite distinct when used, especially during the key release phase for the Tourmaline Blue, which is inclined toward a sharper pop due to its polycarbonate build.

While the materials used in the housing of both switches are different, the impact on performance largely stems from the respective characteristics they possess. The contrasting properties of polycarbonate and POM will yield different auditory and tactile experiences upon bottoming out and releasing the keys. Hence, while both switches serve similar functional purposes in a mechanical keyboard, users will notice a marked difference in sound profile and feel, with the Tourmaline Blue amplifying a sharper sound, while the WS POM+ leans into a warmer and more muted acoustic signature. Therefore, selecting between these two may largely depend on personal preference regarding sound and aesthetic qualities.

Weight

The Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch present a notable contrast in both actuation and bottom out forces, appealing to different user preferences. The Tourmaline Blue features a heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience that may be preferred by those who enjoy a stronger push feel. In contrast, the WS POM+ provides a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it easier to press and potentially more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions. Consequently, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue is classified as medium-heavy, while the Wuque Studio WS POM+ is categorized as medium-light. Users looking for a lighter switch may gravitate towards the WS POM+, whereas those who favor a firmer feel might opt for the Tourmaline Blue.

Travel distance

The Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch have differing travel distances, with the Tourmaline Blue measuring 4 mm and the WS POM+ at 3.6 mm. This means that the Tourmaline Blue offers a longer travel distance, providing a more pronounced key press that some users may find satisfying, especially if they prefer a deeper feel when typing. In contrast, the WS POM+ has a shorter travel distance, making it potentially more suitable for gamers who favor quick, responsive actions and faster response times. While the Tourmaline Blue may appeal to those who appreciate a hearty depth in their keystrokes, the WS POM+ caters to those who prefer the immediacy of shorter travel. Thus, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a traditional and deeper feel or the snappiness of a shorter travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ are both celebrated for their deep, satisfying "thock" sound profiles. The Tourmaline Blue strikes a balance with its neutral character, featuring a moderate sound that is suitable for various environments—be it home or office—making it a versatile choice for users new to mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the WS POM+ likewise delivers an impressive thock sound, which further enhances the engaging typing experience. Ultimately, while both switches produce a satisfying sound, the Tourmaline Blue may appeal slightly more to users looking for a balanced sound profile.

In terms of feel, the Tourmaline Blue excels with its buttery smooth keystrokes and easy-to-press characteristics. This switch provides gentle resistance, making it highly accessible for extended typing sessions while reducing finger fatigue. Its mild nature allows for a comfortable and pleasant typing experience, which appeals to a wide array of users. However, the feel profile of the WS POM+ switch remains unknown. If it happens to share characteristics with the Tourmaline Blue, users may experience a similarly smooth and comfortable typing sensation.

In conclusion, both the Everglide Tourmaline Blue and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ present compelling choices for newcomers to mechanical keyboards. While the Tourmaline Blue is noted for its deep thock sound and buttery feel that caters to a diverse audience, the WS POM+ also boasts a satisfying thock sound, although its specific feel characteristics remain to be explored. Users can expect a rewarding typing experience with either option, especially if they prioritize sound and comfortable keystrokes in their keyboard setup.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, consider your typing preferences and what you prioritize in your keyboard experience. If you lean toward a firmer keystroke and find joy in the tactile feedback and a deeper thocky sound profile, the Tourmaline Blue would be an ideal choice for you. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 67 grams provides a satisfying resistance that can enhance your confidence while typing, making it well-suited for both home and office environments where a balanced sound is appreciated. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a smooth and buttery keystroke, the WS POM+ is likely to resonate with your needs. Its medium-light 55-gram actuation force allows for quicker typing with less finger fatigue, making it perfect for extended use, especially during gaming or programming sessions. Ultimately, choosing between them boils down to whether you want a more substantial typing sensation or a lighter, quieter experience; both switches offer unique advantages that cater to different preferences and use cases.

Mentioned in this article

Everglide Tourmaline Blue Linear

$6.86

$3.89 per 10

Learn more

Wuque Studio WS POM+ Linear

$3.90 per 10

Learn more