Gateron Aliaz vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch to the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, both offer a satisfying tactile typing experience. The Aliaz switch is ideal for quiet environments like the office, providing a medium-heavy weight and a pronounced typing feedback without the noise, making it a great choice for those who value a silent operation. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a 70g bump, immersive resistance, and a captivating "thocky" sound, creating a more engaging and satisfying typing experience. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
No
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile, it is evident that they both use different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Aliaz utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile features a nylon top and bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile because nylon is softer and absorbs more sound. This contrast in materials highlights how different plastics can influence the overall sound of a switch.
While the polycarbonate top and bottom housings of the Gateron Aliaz create a clear and resonant sound profile, the nylon top and bottom housings of the WS Heavy Tactile produce a duller and rounder sound. This difference in sound can impact the typing experience for users, with the Aliaz offering a sharper and crisper typing sound, while the WS Heavy Tactile provides a deeper and fuller typing experience. The choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel.
Overall, both the Gateron Aliaz and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile showcase how housing materials play a crucial role in determining the sound profile of a switch. While the Aliaz uses polycarbonate for its housing to create a clearer and sharper sound, the WS Heavy Tactile opts for nylon to produce a deeper and fuller sound. Regardless of the differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether one prefers a crisper sound or a fuller sound, there is a switch out there that suits individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, we see that the Aliaz has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the WS Heavy Tactile's lighter 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Aliaz requires 75 grams while the WS Heavy Tactile requires 70 grams, making the Aliaz heavier in this aspect. This means that the Aliaz provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier actuation and bottom out force, while the WS Heavy Tactile offers a lighter actuation force but still a relatively heavy bottom out force. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their weight preferences, with the Aliaz being more suitable for those who prefer a heavier feel and the WS Heavy Tactile catering to those who want a lighter actuation force but still a substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. Gamers may prefer the WS Heavy Tactile for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial feel may lean towards the Gateron Aliaz. Both switches provide a tactile bump during actuation, but the Aliaz offers a slightly longer travel distance for those who prefer a more pronounced keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of desired travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile comes in at $3.50 per 10 switches.
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 Gateron Aliaz switch is known for producing a muted and softer sound, ideal for quiet environments such as office settings. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound profile, providing a more crisp and sharp auditory experience. The choice between the two switches will ultimately come down to personal preference in sound, taking into consideration factors like keyboard build and keycap choice.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aliaz is designed to offer a silky and polished typing experience, characterized by exceptionally smooth keypresses with minimized resistance. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile switch boasts an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, providing a more bouncy and snappy feel with each keypress. The decision between these two switches will depend on whether the user prefers a smoother typing experience or a more pronounced and tactile feedback sensation.
Considering all available information, it is evident that the Gateron Aliaz and Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Aliaz switch is tailored for a quieter typing experience with its muted sound and silky feel, while the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a more engaging and tactile typing experience with its clacky sound and sharp tactile feedback. Users should consider their own preferences in sound, feel, and typing style when choosing between these two switches to ensure a satisfying and personalized typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, consider your environment and preferences. If you value a quiet typing experience in a shared space like an office, the Aliaz switches may be the better choice due to their silent operation. The medium-heavy weight of the Aliaz provides a substantial feel for those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback without the noise. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more engaging and satisfying typing experience with a distinct "thocky" sound, the WS Heavy Tactile switches are a great option. With a 70g bump and immersive resistance, these switches offer a profound tactile feedback that can enhance your typing enjoyment. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a muted and smooth typing feel with the Aliaz or a clacky and invigorating typing experience with the WS Heavy Tactile.
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