Gateron Aliaz vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch offer distinct advantages to different types of users. The Aliaz switches are ideal for quiet environments such as the office, providing a medium-heavy weight that gives a substantial feel to each keystroke. With a silent design and a polished feel, they cater to those who value pronounced typing feedback without the noise. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switches by Wuque are perfect for elevating the office and work experience with their ingeniously designed stem railings and discreet cutouts that reduce switch noise while maintaining responsiveness and a satisfying bottom-out. These linear switches offer a unique typing experience without silicone dampeners, striking a balance between tranquility and precision. 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
3.50 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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear, it is evident that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Aliaz features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, while the WS Silent Linear utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing. The polycarbonate material in the Aliaz creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the nylon material in the WS Silent Linear produces a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound with its softer plastic composition. This contrast in material properties ultimately affects the sound and feel of typing on these switches.
Despite their differences, both the Gateron Aliaz and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear offer unique qualities based on their housing materials. The polycarbonate top housing in the Aliaz provides a more transparent aesthetic for RGB lighting, while the nylon top housing in the WS Silent Linear enhances the typing experience with a rounder and duller sound profile. Similarly, the bottom housings of these switches also play a significant role in determining the overall sound and feel when typing. The split between the qualities brought by the top and bottom housings of each switch adds a layer of complexity to the typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Aliaz and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. The polycarbonate housing in the Aliaz offers a sharper and crisper sound, whereas the nylon housing in the WS Silent Linear provides a deeper and fuller sound. Whether one prefers a more resonant typing experience or a softer sound profile, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the housing materials of these switches influence the overall typing experience, making them suitable choices for keyboard enthusiasts seeking a specific sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, it is evident that the Aliaz is heavier in both aspects. The Aliaz has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, while the WS Silent Linear has an unspecified actuation force and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is medium-heavy. The difference in weight between the two switches can cater to different preferences. Some may appreciate the lighter actuation force of the WS Silent Linear for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others might prefer the heavier feel of the Aliaz for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the WS Silent Linear has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Aliaz. In terms of feel, the WS Silent Linear may provide a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for speedy keypresses. On the other hand, the Aliaz with its longer travel distance may offer a more comfortable and satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Silent Linear comes in at $4.20 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is known for its muted characteristics, providing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to regular mechanical switches. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile, with a subdued quality that dampens the noise when keys are pressed. Both switches aim to reduce noise, making them suitable for quiet environments, but the Aliaz leans towards a softer, muted sound while the WS Silent Linear provides a more moderate and subtle noise level.
In terms of feel, the Aliaz switch is praised for its silky and polished typing experience, offering an exceptionally smooth and refined keypress. This enhances the overall typing feel and minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In comparison, the WS Silent Linear switch provides a milder typing experience, which is gentler and more approachable to most users. Both switches focus on providing a smooth and enjoyable typing experience, but the Aliaz leans towards a more polished and silky feel, while the WS Silent Linear offers a mild and comfortable typing touch.
Overall, both the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch are excellent choices for those looking for a quieter typing experience in office or work environments. While the Aliaz offers a heavier weight and a more pronounced feedback with its muted sound and silky feel, the WS Silent Linear provides a distinct typing experience with its neutral sound and mild feel. Depending on personal preference, either switch can deliver a satisfying and quiet typing experience, ensuring a seamless blend of tranquility and precision for users. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a heavier weight with a muted sound and polished feel, or a more moderate sound with a gentle typing touch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you prefer a more pronounced typing feedback and a heavier bottom-out force in a quiet setting like the office, the Aliaz switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you're looking for a linear switch that reduces noise while maintaining a smooth and responsive typing experience without the use of silicone dampeners, the WS Silent Linear switch is the perfect option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel, sound profile, and the specific characteristics offered by each switch that align with your needs and preferences.
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