Kailh Box White vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer distinct characteristics are the Kailh Box White and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow. The Box White is renowned for its clicky nature, providing maximum audio feedback with a satisfying crisp sound resembling the feeling of stepping on autumn leaves. It offers a pronounced tactility, making each keystroke feel distinct and impactful. On the other hand, the WS Yellow is a linear switch that combines classic material with advanced engineering. Featuring a 22mm double-stage spring, these switches offer a delightful bounce, resulting in a smooth and fluid typing experience. They also boast a familiar sound signature that many enthusiasts adore. The WS Yellow switches are crafted to be lightweight, ensuring effortless keystrokes. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box White and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches provide different sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Box White utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The relatively stiffer plastic of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile. In contrast, the WS Yellow features a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. The softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound quality.
Similarly, the bottom housings of both switches are made of nylon, offering a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Consequently, the bottom-out sound and feel of these switches will showcase the qualities brought by the nylon material.
However, it's important to note that the top and bottom housing materials of a switch impact different aspects of the typing experience. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing's qualities become prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing has a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice of housing materials in the Kailh Box White and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow will result in distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, there are notable differences. The Kailh Box White has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, both falling under the medium range. On the other hand, the actuation force of the WS Yellow is unavailable, which makes it difficult to directly compare with the Box White. However, the WS Yellow has a bottom out force of 53 grams, which is slightly lighter than the Box White.
Weight is a crucial factor to consider when choosing between these switches. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the WS Yellow, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. This makes it suitable for professionals who require prolonged typing sessions or avid gamers who participate in lengthy gaming sessions. On the contrary, some individuals prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. For them, the Kailh Box White, with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, would be the more suitable choice.
In terms of actuation force, since the WS Yellow's value is unavailable, it is difficult to determine if it is lighter or heavier than the Kailh Box White. However, considering the medium-light bottom out force of the WS Yellow compared to the medium force of the Box White, it can be inferred that the WS Yellow might have a slightly lighter actuation force as well. Therefore, if the desired outcome is a lighter typing experience, both switches would likely yield similar results. However, for those seeking a stronger and more substantial feel, the Kailh Box White would be the heavier option.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become popular in recent times. Gamers, in particular, tend to favor shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. Choosing the shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm with the Box White switch would be ideal for those seeking a more responsive typing or gaming experience. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key might find the longer travel distance of 3.8 mm provided by the WS Yellow switch more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth one is looking for in their typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box White comes in at $2.76, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Yellow comes in at $3.50.
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 Kailh Box White clicky switch is best known for providing maximum audio feedback. When typing on these switches, users can expect a "stepping on autumn leaves"-like crunch sound. The sound profile is clean and sharp, with a higher-pitched sound profile that creates an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, there is no specific information available on the sound of the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box White switch is described as providing an accented tactility. It offers a polished feel with smooth and refined key travel, resulting in a sleek typing experience. This polished finish reduces friction and ensures effortless keystrokes. On the contrary, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switch is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. This could be due to factory lubrication or specific materials used in the switch. Typing on these switches provides a silky sensation, akin to gliding your fingers across the keys with ease.
Taking all the available information into account, the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities. The Box White excels in providing a satisfying audio feedback through its crunchy, high-pitched sound. It also offers a polished feel with smooth key travel. On the other hand, the WS Yellow switch focuses on delivering a delightful typing experience with its creamy feel and lightweight design for effortless keystrokes.
If you are looking for a clicky switch with great audio feedback, the Kailh Box White would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switch would be the way to go. Keep in mind that the sound and feel of a switch can also be dependent on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you value maximum audio feedback and a satisfying tactile feel, the Box White is the way to go. Its "stepping on autumn leaves"-like crunch and accented tactility provide a unique and immersive typing experience. Additionally, if you enjoy a higher-pitched and sharp sound profile, the Box White is a great option.
On the other hand, if you prioritize smooth and effortless keystrokes, the WS Yellow is a strong contender. With its lightweight design and 22mm double-stage spring, the WS Yellow offers a delightful typing experience with a satisfying bounce. The creamy and polished feel of this switch enhances the overall typing sensation, providing a smooth and buttery experience. Moreover, if you prefer a milder switch that falls in the safe, middle-ground zone, the WS Yellow's qualities make it approachable to most typists.
In summary, if you desire maximum audio feedback and a higher-pitched sound profile, the Kailh Box White clicky switch is the ideal choice. However, if you prefer a smooth and fluid typing experience with a creamy and polished feel, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch is the way to go. Consider your personal preferences and typing style when making your decision.
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