TKC Kiwi vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the TKC Kiwi 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 worth considering are the TKC Kiwi, a tactile switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow, a linear switch. The Kiwi switches are known for their medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, providing a satisfyingly snappy sound profile and an immersive typing experience. They come lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, the WS Yellow linear switches boast a timeless fusion of classic materials and cutting-edge engineering. With a 22mm double-stage spring, they offer a delightful typing experience with a satisfying bounce. Additionally, the material blend of these switches creates a familiar sound signature cherished by enthusiasts. Crafted to be lightweight, they provide effortless keystrokes for a smooth and fluid typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can make the best decision regarding the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The TKC Kiwi and Wuque Studio WS Yellow differ in terms of their housing materials, which ultimately impacts the sound signature and typing experience of these switches. The Kiwi features a top housing made of UHWMPE, a newer material known for its bright sound signature. When typing on switches with UHWMPE housings, users can expect resonant clacks and a lively sound profile. In contrast, the WS Yellow's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Thus, the TKC Kiwi's UHWMPE top housing provides a brighter sound compared to the WS Yellow's nylon top housing.
Moving to the bottom housing, the Kiwi's UHWMPE bottom housing shares similarities with its top housing. It also provides a bright sound signature and resonant clacks when typing on switches with such housings. On the other hand, the WS Yellow's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Like the top housing, the softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, while the Kiwi's UHWMPE bottom housing delivers a bright sound, the WS Yellow's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound.
When comparing the switches as a whole, if the top and bottom housings are different for a given switch, the qualities of each housing material will be split between the top and bottom. The bottom housing has a stronger impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. In contrast, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, when using the TKC Kiwi, the UHWMPE housing will provide a bright and resonant typing experience when both pressing down and releasing keys. Similarly, the WS Yellow's combination of nylon housings will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile both during keystrokes and key releases.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Kiwi has an actuation force of 43 grams, which means it requires a relatively light touch to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the WS Yellow's actuation force is unknown, so we cannot directly compare it to the Kiwi in this aspect. However, the Kiwi's bottom out force of 67 grams indicates that it requires a more substantial push to fully press the key down. In contrast, the WS Yellow has a bottom out force of 53 grams, which is lighter than the Kiwi. This means that the WS Yellow will provide a slightly lighter typing experience overall.
Considering the weight of a switch is important because it can affect typing comfort and endurance. Those who prefer a lighter switch may enjoy the Kiwi, as it allows them to type for longer periods without fatigue. This is especially ideal for individuals who use their keyboards extensively at work or during extended gaming sessions. Alternatively, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience may opt for a switch with heavier forces, like the Kiwi's bottom out force.
In terms of actuation force, if the WS Yellow has a similar or lighter force than the Kiwi, users can expect similar levels of sensitivity in triggering a keystroke. However, since the exact actuation force of the WS Yellow switch is unknown, we cannot conclusively compare it to the Kiwi in this regard. Nevertheless, it is clear that the Kiwi is heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the WS Yellow.
Travel distance
The TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The Kiwi has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Yellow has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. While both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, the WS Yellow is slightly shorter in comparison. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the WS Yellow, as it allows for quicker keystrokes. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial key press may gravitate towards the Kiwi with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience. However, it's worth noting that both options provide similar functionality and can deliver satisfactory results for keyboard users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00, 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 TKC Kiwi tactile switch has a low-pitched sound profile, which means it produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Along with this, it is also described as having a neutral sound, meaning it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch's sound qualities are not specified in the provided information. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the TKC Kiwi switch has multiple descriptors to indicate its tactile experience. It is described as stepped, meaning it has a two-stage feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Additionally, it is referred to as accented, signifying a medium tactile switch that provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. The Kiwi switch is also labeled as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch is described as creamy, implying a smooth and buttery typing experience. This could be due to lubrication applied at the factory or specific materials used. Furthermore, the WS Yellow switch is characterized as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that stands in a safe, middle-ground zone. Similar to the Kiwi switch, the WS Yellow switch is also described as polished, suggesting a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Taking all the available information into account, it is evident that both the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch offer desirable qualities for different preferences. The Kiwi switch excels in providing a low-pitched sound profile with a satisfyingly snappy sound, as well as a stepped and accented feel that has a medium-strong bump. The WS Yellow switch, on the other hand, offers a creamy and mild typing experience with a satisfying bounce, along with a polished finish for smooth key travel. While the sound qualities of the WS Yellow switch are unknown, it is reasonable to expect a similar level of satisfaction in terms of sound and feel based on the provided information. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a tactile typing experience with a defined bump (Kiwi) or a smooth linear typing experience (WS Yellow).
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who enjoys a medium to medium-strong tactile bump with a snappy sound profile, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch would be a great choice for you. These switches are lightly factory lubed, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. The Kiwi is described as having a low-pitched sound, which gives it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Furthermore, the Kiwi offers a stepped and accented feel, meaning that it has a mild tactile bump with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. The polished finish of the Kiwi switch also contributes to a sleek and refined typing experience, reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lightweight linear switch with a satisfying bounce, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switch would be a great choice. These switches are crafted to be lightweight, providing effortless keystrokes and ensuring a smooth and fluid typing experience. The WS Yellow is described as having a creamy and mild feel, offering a smooth and gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Similar to the Kiwi, the WS Yellow switch also features a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction.
Ultimately, the choice between the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switch depends on your personal preference for tactile or linear switches, as well as your desired typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities and characteristics that can enhance your overall typing experience, so it's important to consider factors such as sound, feel, and bottom out force when making your decision.
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