Outemu Phoenix vs. Wuque Studio WS Brown
An in-depth look at the Outemu Phoenix and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Phoenix and the Wuque Studio WS Brown. The Phoenix is a clicky switch, known for its unique under-skirt click mechanism that sets it apart from other clicky switches on the market. With its crunchy and polished feel, it offers a distinctive typing experience that many enthusiasts appreciate. On the other hand, the WS Brown is a tactile switch that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort. With a medium-light actuation force, it ensures fatigue-free typing even during long sessions. The nylon housing and POM stem combination of the WS Brown provides a familiar and delightful auditory experience loved by enthusiasts. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can better decide on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Phoenix and the Wuque Studio WS Brown differ in their choice of housing materials for both the top and bottom housings. The Phoenix utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, while the WS Brown opts for a nylon top and bottom housing.
In terms of sound profile, the Phoenix's polycarbonate housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the WS Brown's nylon housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to the softer and more sound-absorbent nature of the material. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
Aesthetically, the polycarbonate housing of the Phoenix is translucent, making it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. Nylon, being a classic switch housing material, does not offer the same level of translucency. Therefore, if you prefer to have RGB lighting effects, the Phoenix would be a more suitable option.
When it comes to the typing experience, the choice of housing material for the top and bottom will impact the sound and feel differently. The bottom housing, which is responsible for the bottom-out sound and feel, will showcase the qualities of the chosen material. For the Phoenix, this means a sharper and crisper feel, while the WS Brown will offer a deeper and fuller sensation. Conversely, the top housing will have more influence on the sound when releasing a key. So, for those who prioritize the sound during key release, the choice of top housing becomes more significant.
In summary, the Outemu Phoenix and Wuque Studio WS Brown differ in their use of housing materials, with the Phoenix featuring polycarbonate and the WS Brown utilizing nylon for both top and bottom. The Phoenix emphasizes a sharper and crisper sound with a translucent aesthetic suitable for RGB lighting. In contrast, the WS Brown offers a deeper and fuller sound profile with a classic switch housing appearance. However, both switches highlight the importance of the top and bottom housing in the overall typing experience, with the bottom influencing the bottom-out feel and sound, and the top impacting the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, it is important to consider their actuation force and bottom out force. Unfortunately, the specific actuation force for both switches is unknown. However, the bottom out force of the Phoenix switch is 62 grams, which can be considered medium, while the WS Brown switch has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is slightly lighter, classified as medium-light.
The weight of a switch is a crucial factor for many individuals, as it greatly affects typing comfort and endurance. Those who prefer a lighter switch often appreciate the ability to type for longer periods without experiencing fatigue. This makes it an ideal choice for individuals who use their keyboards extensively for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for switches with heavier forces, as it provides a stronger push feel.
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of these switches is difficult due to the lack of available data for the actuation force. However, it is evident that the Phoenix switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force than the WS Brown switch. While the WS Brown switch falls into the medium-light range with a bottom out force of 55 grams, the Phoenix switch can be considered medium with a bottom out force of 62 grams.
In conclusion, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch vary in terms of their bottom out forces, with the Phoenix switch being slightly heavier. However, without information on the actuation force, it is difficult to compare them in this regard. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience, with the lighter WS Brown switch offering longer endurance and the slightly heavier Phoenix switch providing a more substantial feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Phoenix has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the WS Brown has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum when it comes to travel distances, but the WS Brown provides a slightly deeper keypress experience. If you are someone who values faster response times and a more immediate feedback, the Phoenix would be the ideal choice with its shorter travel distance. However, if you prefer a more substantial and satisfying keypress, the WS Brown, with its slightly longer travel distance, would be the better option. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and whether you prioritize speed or a more tactile sensation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Phoenix comes in at $4.15, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Brown 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch stands out with its unique under-skirt click mechanism. This produces a distinct and crystalline sound profile that can be compared to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, there is no specific information available regarding the sound of the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch. However, it is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps being used. With that said, you can expect a satisfying and delightful auditory experience when typing on the WS Brown switch due to its familiar nylon housing and POM stem combination, cherished by enthusiasts.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Phoenix switch is described as polished. A polished switch refers to a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. This smoothness can be attributed to the materials used in the switch construction or the application of factory lubing. As a result, users can expect reduced friction and smooth key travel when using the Phoenix switch. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available regarding the feel of the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch. However, given its medium-light actuation force, it is safe to assume that the switch strikes a harmonious balance between responsiveness and comfort, ensuring fatigue-free typing during extended sessions.
In conclusion, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offers a unique and sparkling sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. In terms of feel, its polished finish ensures a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, while specific information about the sound and feel of the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch is not provided, it promises a delightful auditory experience due to its familiar nylon housing and POM stem combination. Additionally, with a medium-light actuation force, it offers a balance between responsiveness and comfort. Overall, both switches offer their own subjective qualities that cater to different preferences, ultimately providing an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who values a unique and sparkling clicky switch experience, the Outemu Phoenix would be a great choice for you. With its under-skirt click mechanism, it stands out as one of the most distinct clicky switches available today. Not only does it offer a crystalline and sparkling sound profile, but it also has a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a satisfying and moderate typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch that strikes a harmonious balance between responsiveness and comfort, the Wuque Studio WS Brown would be an excellent option for you. With a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, these switches offer a fatigue-free typing experience during those extended sessions. The WS Brown switches are known for their familiarity and delightful auditory experience, thanks to their familiar nylon housing and POM stem combination.
Although we have not yet explored the sound and feel descriptions of the WS Brown switches, considering the information provided, it is evident that the Outemu Phoenix excels in its unique clicky sound, characterized as a crunchy experience reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. Moreover, the Phoenix switch offers a polished feel, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you enjoy the distinct clicky sound and smooth typing experience, the Outemu Phoenix would suit you best. However, if you value a tactile switch that provides both responsiveness and comfort, the WS Brown switches would be the ideal choice. Assess your priorities and select the switch that aligns with your preferences for the best typing experience.
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