Outemu Dustproof Purple vs. Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Purple, a clicky switch, to the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear, a linear switch, there are some distinct differences to consider. The Dustproof Purple is best known for none, while the WS Aurora Clear is renowned for its smooth, high-pitched typing experience. The Dustproof Purple is categorized as [], whereas the WS Aurora Clear falls under categories like buttery, mild, high-pitched, and polished. The WS Aurora Clear stands out for its transparent polycarbonate top housing, UHMWPE bottom housing, and POM stem lightly lubed for minimal friction. If you're looking for maximum RGB lighting customization and a smooth keystroke, the WS Aurora Clear may be the better choice. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
pom
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Double-staged stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This makes it ideal for switches that are used with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for a glowing effect. However, the Dustproof Purple differs in its choice of nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the WS Aurora Clear utilizes UHWMPE for its bottom housing, which offers a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks.
While both switches share the use of polycarbonate in their top housings, the differing materials used in the bottom housings create distinct sound profiles. The nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Purple absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound, contrasting with the UHWMPE bottom housing of the WS Aurora Clear, which produces a bright and resonant sound. This difference in bottom housing materials contributes to the overall typing experience and the sound feedback provided by each switch. Additionally, the choice of housing materials showcases the versatility and innovation within the mechanical keyboard community, as manufacturers continue to explore new materials for enhancing sound profiles.
Overall, the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear demonstrate the impact that different plastics can have on the sound and feel of mechanical switches. While both switches benefit from the clear, polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound profile, the choice of nylon or UHWMPE for the bottom housing significantly alters the typing experience. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound like that of the Dustproof Purple or a bright and resonant sound like that of the WS Aurora Clear, the housing materials play a crucial role in determining the overall sound signature and feel of the switch. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and typing style when choosing between these two unique mechanical switches.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, the actuation force of the Dustproof Purple is slightly higher at 55 grams compared to the Aurora Clear at 53 grams. Both switches have medium-heavy bottom out forces, with the Dustproof Purple at 65 grams and the Aurora Clear at 63.5 grams. While the Dustproof Purple is slightly heavier in terms of actuation force, the difference is minimal and users are likely to get very similar results with both switches. When considering weight, some may prefer the lighter actuation force for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of force and feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Dustproof Purple being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the WS Aurora Clear for faster response times, while those looking for a more substantial keypress may prefer the Dustproof Purple. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired feel of the keyboard.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Dustproof Purple comes in at $3.10, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear comes in at $8.00.
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 Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch does not have a well-known reputation for any specific sound characteristics, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch is recognized for its high-pitched sound profile. While the Dustproof Purple's sound remains a mystery, the WS Aurora Clear offers a sharp and crisp sound that appeals to those who prefer a lighter and more vibrant typing experience. It's important to note that the sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by other factors, such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch lacks known information on its tactile characteristics. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches are described as buttery, mild, and polished. This suggests that the WS Aurora Clear linear switches provide a smooth, gentle, and refined typing experience, offering a seamless and uniform sensation when typing. The inclusion of lubrication on the POM stem reduces friction and ensures a satisfyingly smooth keystroke, appealing to users seeking a more effortless typing feel.
Taking into consideration the available information, it's clear that the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Dustproof Purple's sound and feel remain undisclosed, the WS Aurora Clear provides a distinctive high-pitched sound and a buttery, mild, and polished typing experience. Ultimately, personal preferences should dictate the choice between these switches, with the Dustproof Purple offering an element of surprise and the WS Aurora Clear delivering a refined and smooth typing feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch or the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, it really comes down to personal preference and what you value in a mechanical keyboard switch. If you prefer a clicky and tactile typing experience with medium-heavy bottom out force, the Dustproof Purple may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and high-pitched typing sensation with a slightly lower bottom out force, along with customizable RGB lighting, the WS Aurora Clear linear switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, it's important to consider both sound and feel preferences when making your decision.
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