TKC Kiwi vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options stand out: the TKC Kiwi and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile. The Kiwi switches are renowned for their medium to medium-strong bump that enhances typing experiences. With a satisfyingly snappy sound profile, these switches deliver an immersive typing experience straight out of the box. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switches from Wuque Studio offer a profound and pronounced tactile bump, providing a satisfying resistance of 70g with each keystroke. They also boast a captivating sound profile, thanks to Wuque Studios' nylon housings, which create a "thocky" resonance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

TKC Kiwi Tactile

Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile Tactile

$8.00 per 10

$3.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The TKC Kiwi and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile differ in the materials used for their top and bottom housings. The Kiwi features a UHWMPE top housing, which is a newer material that offers bright and resonant clacks when typing. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile utilizes a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While the Kiwi's UHWMPE top housing provides a bright and resonant typing experience, the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound.

Moving to the bottom housing, the TKC Kiwi incorporates a UHWMPE material that delivers a bright sound signature and resonant clacks. Conversely, the WS Heavy Tactile utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to the switch's overall sound profile by absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, the bottom housing of the Kiwi provides a bright and resonant bottom-out sound and feel, while the nylon bottom housing of the WS Heavy Tactile contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience.

Considering the overall impact on sound, the top and bottom housings play crucial roles. The differences in materials between the TKC Kiwi and the WS Heavy Tactile imply that their sound profiles will vary. While the Kiwi's UHWMPE top and bottom housings create a bright and resonant sound throughout the typing experience, the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon top and bottom housings contribute to a deeper and fuller sound. Therefore, the TKC Kiwi and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile offer different sound signatures based on their respective housing materials. However, it should be noted that both switches aim to provide an enjoyable and responsive typing experience, albeit with distinct sound characteristics.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that there are significant differences. The TKC Kiwi has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile has an unspecified actuation force and a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is considered relatively light.

Considering the weight factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the WS Heavy Tactile switch. The lighter actuation force allows for longer typing sessions, making it suitable for work or marathon gaming sessions. Its lower bottom out force also ensures a less forceful impact when pressing down fully.

However, for users seeking a more substantial typing feel, the TKC Kiwi switch would be the preferable choice. With its higher actuation and bottom out forces, it provides a stronger push, resulting in a more pronounced and satisfying keystroke. This option is ideal for those who appreciate a tactile response with a bit more heft.

It is worth noting that if the actuation force of the WS Heavy Tactile switch were known, we could compare it more accurately. Nevertheless, based on the available information, it is clear that the TKC Kiwi is the heavier of the two switches. So, depending on personal preference, individuals can choose between the lighter, gentler typing experience of the WS Heavy Tactile or the heavier, more substantial feel provided by the TKC Kiwi.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, we find that the Kiwi has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Heavy Tactile has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. This means that the Kiwi has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the WS Heavy Tactile. The Kiwi's 4.0mm travel distance falls within the traditional range for switch travel distances, offering a standard experience for users. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile's 3.2 mm travel distance is slightly shorter, making it a popular choice among gamers who value faster response times. Choosing between these switches depends on personal preference - if you prefer a more responsive feel, the WS Heavy Tactile's shorter travel distance may be preferred. However, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial keystroke, the Kiwi's longer travel distance would be the better option.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the TKC Kiwi switches are best described as having a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. The low-pitched sound adds a bass-heavy and mellow tone to each keystroke, while the neutral profile offers a moderate actuation force requirement and a pleasant sound suitable for various typing purposes. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches are known for their clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound qualities. The clacky sound produced by these switches is sharp and snappy, giving a crisp and percussive auditory feedback. The high-pitched sound adds a sharp and crisp element to the typing experience, while the resonant property creates a clean and sharp sound profile. It is important to note that the sound profile can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, both the TKC Kiwi and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches offer an accented tactile experience. Accented switches provide a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, delivering a medium tactile switch sensation. Additionally, the TKC Kiwi switches are described as having a stepped and polished feel. The stepped characteristic implies that the switches have two stages, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel, making the tactile bump more mild compared to hypertactile switches. Moreover, the polished finish of the Kiwi switches ensures a smooth and refined typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switches are also characterized by a bouncy, invigorating, sharp, and snappy feel. The bouncy nature of these switches provides a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, adding a lively feel to each keystroke. The invigorating attribute offers pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. Additionally, the sharp and snappy qualities of the WS Heavy Tactile switches contribute to a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with every keypress.

In conclusion, the TKC Kiwi tactile switches excel in providing a satisfyingly snappy sound profile and a smooth and effortless typing experience. With their medium to medium-strong bump and polished finish, these switches deliver an immersive and refined tactile experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches offer a profound and pronounced tactile bump, along with a captivating and resonant sound profile. The WS Heavy Tactile switches provide a lively and invigorating typing sensation, with their accented, bouncy, sharp, and snappy attributes. Depending on the preference for sound, feel, and typing experience, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the enjoyment of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether opting for the Kiwi or the WS Heavy Tactile, users can expect similar results in terms of the tactile experience, albeit with some differences in sound and feel characteristics.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you're looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a satisfyingly snappy sound profile, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch is the way to go. These switches provide a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, enhancing your typing experience. They are lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. The Kiwi also offers a low-pitched sound profile, which is bass-heavy and mellow. In terms of feel, the Kiwi is described as a stepped switch, meaning it has two stages of tactility for a more mild feel. It is also accented, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. On the other hand, if you're looking for a lighter bottom out force and a captivating sound profile, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch is the better choice. These switches feature a profound and pronounced tactile bump, making each keystroke feel satisfyingly resistant. They offer a clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound. The WS Heavy Tactile is also accented in terms of feel, providing a balanced level of tactility. It is also bouncy, giving the keys a lively and rebounding feel. Ultimately, the choice between the TKC Kiwi and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile comes down to your preferred bottom out force, sound profile, and feel.

Mentioned in this article

TKC Kiwi Tactile

$8.00 per 10

Learn more

Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile Tactile

$3.50 per 10

Learn more