Gateron Aliaz vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly impact your typing experience. The Gateron Aliaz, a tactile switch, is designed for those who thrive in quieter environments, such as offices, delivering a medium-heavy feel that offers tactile feedback without the noise that can disrupt others. Its classification as 'Silky,' 'Muted,' and 'Polished' reflects a user-friendly experience, making it ideal for individuals seeking a balance between feedback and discretion. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi presents a linear switch that not only enhances the aesthetics of your keyboard with a light column for RGB illumination but also offers a unique and airy smoothness thanks to its UPE stem and all-POM housing. This switch is categorized as 'Buttery,' 'Creamy,' 'Low-pitched,' 'Silky,' 'Subdued,' and 'Thocky,' appealing to users who prefer an uninterrupted keystroke without the tactile bump of a traditional switch. Each switch caters to different preferences and environments: the Aliaz is perfect for a focused, quiet setting, while the WS Morandi appeals to those valuing aesthetics and a smooth typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Aliaz and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi exhibit notable differences in their housing materials, which directly influence their respective sound profiles. The Gateron Aliaz features a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This stiffer plastic allows for more resonance, making it particularly effective for applications with RGB lighting due to its translucency. Conversely, the WS Morandi utilizes a POM top housing that creates a deeper, more muted sound profile. POM, while still a durable material, contributes to a unique auditory experience that deviates from the brightness of polycarbonate. Therefore, while both switches aim for excellent performance, the Aliaz is designed for clarity and sharpness, whereas the WS Morandi leans into a softer, more subdued auditory signature.
Examining the bottom housings of each switch reveals a similar pattern of differentiation. The Gateron Aliaz opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, which sustains the high-pitched, crisp sound established by its top counterpart. This consistent material choice ensures that the sound quality remains coherent throughout the switch's operation. Meanwhile, the WS Morandi features POM as the bottom housing material, further enhancing its characteristic deep and muted sound. The synergy between the POM top and bottom housings contributes to a consistent auditory experience that is uniquely pleasing, albeit distinct from that of the Aliaz. These differences reflect the manufacturers’ philosophies—Gateron aims for brightness, whereas Wuque Studio seeks depth.
In terms of overall functionality, the combination of materials impacts the users' experiences significantly. With the Aliaz utilizing polycarbonate for both top and bottom, users can expect a uniform sound profile across the entire actuation range of the switch. This can be particularly advantageous for users who favor clarity, especially in gaming or typing scenarios that benefit from a pronounced auditory feedback. In contrast, the WS Morandi, with both top and bottom made of POM, allows for a consistently muted sound, perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, while the differences in material contribute to varied auditory and tactile experiences, those seeking specific sound profiles can choose their switches based on whether they prefer the crispness of polycarbonate or the richness of POM, allowing for tailored keyboard experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, there are notable differences in their weight characteristics. The Gateron Aliaz has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, making it a heavier switch that provides a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the WS Morandi features a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, positioning it as a medium-weight option. This means that users who prefer a lighter switch for extended use, such as during long typing sessions or gaming marathons, may find the WS Morandi more suitable for their needs. Conversely, those who enjoy a firmer tactile feedback and a stronger push should gravitate towards the Gateron Aliaz. Overall, the Aliaz offers a heavier feel, while the Morandi caters to those who appreciate a lighter touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, a noticeable difference emerges. The Aliaz features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the traditional standard and offers a more pronounced tactile feedback, making it suitable for users who appreciate a deeper keypress. Conversely, the WS Morandi has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, appealing to those who favor a quicker response time, often preferred by gamers who seek efficiency in their clicks. Therefore, if a user prioritizes a more responsive feel, they might opt for the Morandi's shorter travel distance. In contrast, those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke would gravitate towards the Aliaz. In summary, the Gateron Aliaz has a longer travel distance (4 mm) compared to the WS Morandi (3.5 mm), allowing for different preferences in key feel and responsiveness.
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 Morandi has an MSRP of $4.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Morandi for $3.90.
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 comparing the sound characteristics of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, the Aliaz is designed to produce a muted sound profile that minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, making it an ideal choice for quieter environments such as offices. On the other hand, the WS Morandi has a more nuanced sound, described as low-pitched and subdued, with a thocky quality that gives it a deep, satisfying tone upon keystroke. While both switches are relatively quiet compared to more traditional mechanical switches, the Aliaz focuses on silencing the sound entirely, whereas the Morandi embraces a more robust, yet still contained, auditory presence.
In terms of feel, both switches exhibit silky smoothness, but they have distinct qualities in their tactile experiences. The Aliaz offers a medium-heavy weight that provides a substantial feeling on each keystroke, with descriptors like "polished" indicating reduced friction and a refined typing experience. In contrast, the WS Morandi switch is characterized by its buttery and creamy sensations, giving users an effortless and fluid typing experience. While both switches may provide smoothness, the Aliaz leans toward a more weighted tactile feedback, whereas the Morandi excels at delivering a light, airy touch.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron Aliaz and Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches prioritize a smooth typing experience, they cater to different user preferences—silence and weight versus fluidity and sound richness. The Aliaz is perfect for those seeking a quiet and substantial tactile response, while the Morandi offers an innovative design with a low, thocky sound profile and a creamy, effortless feel. Depending on your typing environment and personal preferences, both switches can provide satisfying results, though their unique attributes may sway your choice one way or the other.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the environment you'll be using your keyboard in. If you frequently find yourself typing in quiet settings like an office and appreciate a more tactile feedback with a heavier bottom-out force, the Aliaz is the ideal option for you. Its muted sound profile, combined with its silky and polished feel, ensures that you get satisfying keystrokes without disturbing those around you. On the other hand, if you're drawn to smoother, more fluid typing experiences and plan to showcase vibrant RGB lighting effects, then the WS Morandi would be your go-to choice. With its lighter action, buttery and creamy feel, and low-pitched subdued sound, this switch is perfect for gaming sessions or creative endeavors where both performance and aesthetics are key. Ultimately, evaluate what aspects you prioritize—whether it’s the need for a pronounced tactile feel or a sleek, smooth typing experience—and choose accordingly.
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