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Gateron Beer vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile

An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Beer and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches both offer unique features and experiences. The Gateron Beer switch evokes the sparkling allure of a Tsingtao beer bottle with its mesmerizing translucent green design. Known for being refreshingly lightweight with a stepped tactility, these switches provide a subtler feel compared to the continuous curve of round tactility, along with a characteristic clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch delivers a profound tactile experience with a 70g bump, immersive resistance, and captivating "thocky" sound from nylon housings. It is characterized by its accented, bouncy, and sharp feel. Choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. 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

38g

Actuation force

45g

Bottom-out force

50g

Bottom-out force

70g

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Total travel

3.40 mm

Total travel

3.20 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

22mm lengthened gold-plated spring

Spring

22mm single-stage spring

Housing materials

The Gateron Beer utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile compared to the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile's nylon top housing. Polycarbonate's stiffness leads to a clearer and more resonant sound, particularly beneficial for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound than polycarbonate and producing a rounder sound. While both housing materials offer unique sound qualities, the polycarbonate top housing of the Beer emphasizes sharpness and clarity, while the nylon top housing of the WS Heavy Tactile focuses on depth and fullness.

In terms of the bottom housing, the Gateron Beer and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile also differ in material. The Beer features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to the sharp, higher-pitched sound profile similar to its top housing. The WS Heavy Tactile, on the other hand, utilizes a nylon bottom housing that enhances the deeper and fuller sound profile associated with nylon material. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of each switch means that the characteristics of each material will impact different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing will have a more pronounced effect on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key.

While the Gateron Beer and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile differ in their choice of housing materials, both offer unique sound profiles based on the characteristics of polycarbonate and nylon. The use of polycarbonate in the Beer results in a sharper and crisper sound, especially noticeable when typing and releasing keys, whereas the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile with a duller and rounder quality. Despite their differences, both switches provide distinct typing experiences based on the unique properties of their housing materials, catering to different preferences for sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Beer and the WS Heavy Tactile will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and typing feel.

Weight

In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, it is clear that the Beer is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. The Beer has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the WS Heavy Tactile has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it heavier. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Beer, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile provides a stronger push feel for those seeking a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences for typing and gaming.

Travel distance

The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter range of travel distances, with the Beer being slightly longer than the WS Heavy Tactile. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the WS Heavy Tactile, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Beer. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

The Gateron Beer has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Beer for $4.59.

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, both the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch are described as having a "clacky" sound profile, producing sharp and snappy sounds when pressed. The Beer switch offers a characteristic clacky sound signature that enhances the typing experience with a distinct auditory feedback. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch also features a high-pitched and resonant sound, creating an immersive auditory experience that adds to the overall satisfaction of typing. While both switches share similar qualities in sound production, the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers additional elements such as a higher-pitched sound profile for those who prefer a sharper sound.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is known for being easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses with minimal force required to activate. The stepped tactility of the Beer switch provides a more subtle feel compared to other tactile switches, offering a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch is described as having an accented, bouncy, invigorating, sharp, and snappy feel. These qualities contribute to a profound tactile experience with moderate to firm actuation force and a lively feedback sensation, creating a more engaging typing sensation. Both switches offer distinct tactile feedback, but the WS Heavy Tactile switch provides a more pronounced and lively feel.

In conclusion, while the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, they cater to different preferences in the typing experience. The Beer switch provides a refreshingly lightweight feel with a stepped tactility and a characteristic clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch delivers a profound tactile experience with a 70g bump, immersive resistance, and captivating sound from nylon housings. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, both switches offer distinctive features that can enhance the overall enjoyment of using a mechanical keyboard. Ultimately, choosing between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing feedback.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, you should consider your preferences for key feel and sound. If you prefer a lighter touch with a subtle tactile bump and a clacky sound, the Beer switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier key press with a more pronounced bump and a "thocky" sound, the WS Heavy Tactile switch may be more up your alley. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and sound preferences to ensure a satisfying typing experience.

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