Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile 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, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ offer distinct experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The WS Heavy Tactile is renowned for its robust tactile feedback, featuring a 70g bump that provides an immersive resistance and a captivating "thocky" sound, making it an ideal choice for those who crave a tactile and auditory typing experience. Its unique characteristics are further enriched by its categorized traits, including being accented and snappy, ensuring each keystroke feels engaging and satisfying. In contrast, the WS POM+ embraces a linear design, delivering a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke experience with a deep "thock" sound signature. This makes it perfect for users who prioritize a quiet, fluid typing experience over tactile feedback. Both switches have their merits, whether you’re looking for a more interactive feel with pronounced feedback or a silky typing experience that enhances your workflow. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile and the WS POM+, a notable difference arises in the choice of plastics used for the top and bottom housings. The WS Heavy Tactile utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This classic material contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound and produces a duller, rounder auditory experience. This consistent use of nylon throughout creates a cohesive acoustic character that enhances the overall tactile experience, giving a familiar and reliable performance.
In contrast, the WS POM+ employs POM—an advanced thermoplastic—for both its top and bottom housings. While POM is known for its durability and rigidity, it also produces a unique sound profile that is significantly muted and deep. This results in a pleasing auditory output, which is distinct from that of nylon. As with the Heavy Tactile switch, the POM's sound characteristics are a reflection of the material’s properties; however, they introduce a different texture and experience when typing.
Despite these differences in materials, both the WS Heavy Tactile and WS POM+ can deliver similar results in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback. When typing on either switch, the bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound, while the top housing affects the release sound. Therefore, the combination of nylon in the Heavy Tactile and POM in the POM+ leads to an overall quality that ensures a deep auditory experience, albeit through varying acoustical signatures. This shared emphasis on sound profile and tactile feedback demonstrates that both switches, although constructed from distinct materials, can achieve comparable user satisfaction through their unique sound modulation techniques.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile and WS POM+ linear switches, notable differences emerge. Both switches feature an actuation force of 45 grams, which means they share the same requirement for triggering a keystroke, offering a similar typing experience in that regard. However, the bottom out forces distinguish them significantly: the WS Heavy Tactile has a bottom out force of 70 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy, while the WS POM+ linear switch has a bottom out force of only 55 grams, placing it in the medium-light range. Consequently, the WS Heavy Tactile provides a heavier overall pressing experience, appealing to users who favor a more substantial feel, whereas the WS POM+ offers a lighter touch, potentially making it more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch and the WS POM+ linear switch, notable differences emerge. The WS Heavy Tactile features a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the WS POM+ boasts a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This demonstrates that the WS Heavy Tactile is the shorter option, appealing to users who prefer a more responsive feel, especially gamers who benefit from quicker key presses. On the other hand, the WS POM+, with its longer travel distance, may be more suitable for those who appreciate a deeper, more substantial key press, delivering a hearty tactile response. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on individual preferences for responsiveness versus depth in typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile comes in at $3.50, whereas the Wuque Studio WS POM+ comes in at $3.90.
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 WS Heavy Tactile switch produces a captivating and resonant auditory profile characterized by its clacky, high-pitched, and sharp tones. The nylon housing of these switches contributes to a clean and immersive sound that enhances the typing experience with a pronounced "thocky" resonance. This makes for a satisfying auditory feedback whenever a key is pressed, engaging the typist in a dynamic soundscape. Conversely, the sound attributes of the WS POM+ linear switch remain unspecified, leaving some uncertainty. However, given its reputation for delivering a deep and satisfying "thock," it's reasonable to assume that it offers a smooth auditory experience, albeit potentially lacking the diverse sound descriptors found in the Heavy Tactile switch.
When it comes to feel, the WS Heavy Tactile switch stands out with its engaging tactile feedback. Described using terms such as "bouncy," "sharp," and "snappy," it provides a distinctly invigorating typing sensation. This switch delivers a firm actuation force, creating an elastic response that bounces back against the fingers, leading to a lively and responsive feel. The well-defined tactile bump offers a medium to strong tactile experience that is neither overwhelming nor too subtle, promoting a heightened connection between the typist and the keys. On the other hand, the WS POM+ linear switch lacks detailed descriptors regarding its tactile qualities; however, linear switches typically offer a smooth and consistent keystroke, which might provide a completely different typing experience without the noticeable tactile bump of the Heavy Tactile.
In conclusion, while the WS Heavy Tactile excels in both sound and tactile feedback, creating a rich and engaging typing experience, the WS POM+ linear switch seems to prioritize a smooth keystroke and a satisfying “thock” sound. If you're looking for an auditory and tactile experience that keeps you engaged, the Heavy Tactile will likely be the choice for you. However, if your preference leans towards a smoother typing experience, the POM+ may suffice, even if its additional qualities remain somewhat unknown. Ultimately, your personal preferences in sound and feel will guide you to choose the switch that best complements your typing style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your choice between the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile and the WS POM+ linear switch should ultimately be guided by your personal preferences and typing needs. If you enjoy a typing experience that is immersive and engaging, characterized by a pronounced tactile bump and a satisfying "thocky" sound, the WS Heavy Tactile is your best bet, especially if you prefer a medium-heavy feedback that enhances your connection to each keystroke. This switch provides a lively sensation and invigorating feedback, making it ideal for those who like tactile switches that are neither too overwhelming nor too subtle. On the other hand, if you appreciate a smoother, quieter typing experience that offers a silky keystroke and a pleasing "thock" sound, then the WS POM+ linear switch is likely the better choice. With its lighter actuation force, this switch is perfect for users who prioritize speed and fluidity, whether for gaming or prolonged typing sessions where comfort is key. Ultimately, consider what aspects of a keyboard—such as force, sound profile, and feedback—you find most appealing, and let those preferences guide your decision for an optimal typing experience.
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