Gateron Aliaz vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz, a tactile switch, to the Wuque Studio WS Onion, a linear switch, we find two distinct options to consider for your mechanical keyboard needs. The Aliaz switches are ideal for quiet environments, such as an office setting, thanks to their silent design. With a medium-heavy weight, they provide a substantial typing experience that appeals to those who prefer a more pronounced feedback without the noise. On the other hand, the WS Onion switches feature a unique construction with a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, offering a buttery smooth keystroke feel that is deeply satisfying. They also provide a crisp and responsive typing experience with a neutral sound profile. Both switches have their unique qualities that make them stand out, 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
WS CL635 Gold Plated Stainless Spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Wuque Studio WS Onion both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. The use of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches with RGB lighting, as its translucency enhances the visual appeal of the switch. In terms of sound profile, both switches will produce similar results with their polycarbonate top housings.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Aliaz features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to the overall sound profile of the switch when pressed down. On the other hand, the WS Onion utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. This difference in bottom housing material will impact the overall sound and feel of each switch.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Wuque Studio WS Onion play a significant role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound, the Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a different typing experience compared to the WS Onion's nylon bottom housing. Whether you prefer a crisper sound with a polycarbonate bottom housing or a deeper sound with a nylon bottom housing, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to various preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, it is evident that the Aliaz is the heavier option with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams. In contrast, the WS Onion is lighter in comparison with a bottom out force of 63.5 grams and an unknown actuation force. The difference in weight between the two switches can greatly impact user preference. Those seeking a lighter key press for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the WS Onion, while individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the heavier Aliaz. Overall, the actuation force and bottom out force play a crucial role in determining the typing feel and user experience of a mechanical keyboard.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these two switches, it is noteworthy that both offer the same amount of key travel, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of depth of keypress. This means that whether you choose the Aliaz or the WS Onion switch, you can expect a similar feel and response when typing or gaming. The user will experience a satisfying keypress with a consistent travel distance from top to bottom, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable 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 Onion has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Onion for $5.53.
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 tactile switch offers a muted typing experience, producing softer and quieter sounds that are ideal for office environments or for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch provides a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments and typing preferences without being too loud or too soft. Both switches can be customized in terms of sound based on the keyboard and keycap combinations used.
When it comes to feel, the Aliaz switch is described as silky and polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The WS Onion switch, on the other hand, is characterized as buttery and polished, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation that is deeply satisfying. Both switches excel in delivering a premium typing experience, with slight differences in the overall feel based on personal preference for smoothness and weight of keystrokes.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch offer exceptional qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Aliaz is best suited for those seeking a quieter typing experience with a medium-heavy weight feel, while the WS Onion excels in providing a smooth and buttery keystroke feel with a neutral sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feedback and noise levels, but users can expect a high-quality typing experience regardless of their selection.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a tactile switch that offers a substantial feel and a quiet typing experience, the Gateron Aliaz switch with its heavy bottom out force might be the perfect choice for you, especially in a quiet office setting. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a buttery smooth keystroke feel and a neutral sound profile, then the Wuque Studio WS Onion switch with its medium-heavy bottom out force could be the ideal option for you. Consider your preference for typing feedback, noise level, and overall typing experience when choosing between these two switches to find the one that best suits your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to consider your priorities when making a decision.
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