Gateron Beer vs. Wuque Studio WS Red

Overview

When comparing the Gateron Beer tactile switch to the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it's evident that both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Beer switch, with its translucent green design inspired by Tsingtao beer bottles, is known for its lightness and stepped tactility, providing a subtle yet satisfying typing experience accompanied by a characteristic clacky sound. On the other hand, the WS Red switch stands out with a bouncy and responsive typing experience thanks to its 22mm double-stage spring, offering a heavier actuation force for a more substantial feel with a classic sound signature. If you prefer a lighter and clacky typing experience, the Beer switch may be the way to go. However, if you appreciate a heavier and more substantial feel with a bouncy response, the WS Red switch might be the better choice. Let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Beer Tactile

Wuque Studio WS Red Linear

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

$3.50 per 10

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Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Wuque Studio WS Red, it is clear that polycarbonate and nylon have distinct sound profiles. The Beer's polycarbonate top and bottom housings create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. In contrast, the WS Red's nylon top and bottom housings result in a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. The choice between the two materials ultimately comes down to personal preference for sound characteristics.

Despite their differences, both the Gateron Beer and the Wuque Studio WS Red feature clear housings, indicating the use of polycarbonate in the Beer and nylon in the WS Red. This translucency allows for RGB lighting to shine through and enhances the aesthetic appeal of the switches. While the polycarbonate top housing of the Beer creates a more resonant sound, the nylon top housing of the WS Red offers a rounder and duller sound. Ultimately, both switches provide unique sound experiences that cater to different preferences in typing feel and sound.

When considering the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall typing experience, it is important to note that each material brings its own qualities to the switch. The Gateron Beer's polycarbonate top housing affects the sound when a key is released, while the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red's nylon housing splits these qualities between the top and bottom, resulting in a different typing experience. Whether you prefer the crisper and sharper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon, both switches offer unique characteristics that enhance the overall typing experience.

Weight

The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch's unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Beer requires 50 grams while the WS Red needs 67 grams, making the WS Red the heavier option. Those who prefer a light typing experience may gravitate towards the Beer, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the WS Red provides a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Both switches offer different weights to cater to different preferences, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on the individual's typing style and preference for actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it the shorter of the two options compared to the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances commonly preferred by gamers for faster response times, the Beer offers a slightly quicker keystroke due to its shorter distance. On the other hand, the WS Red provides a bit more depth and feedback with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced key press. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is known for its characteristic clacky sound, which is sharp and snappy, offering a crisp and bright sound when pressed. On the other hand, the sound signature of the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch is not specified, so it's difficult to compare directly. However, keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch is influenced by various factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.

Moving on to feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is highlighted for its easy-to-press nature, providing gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. Additionally, it features a stepped tactility, offering a more subtle feel compared to other tactile switches. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch boasts a bouncy and responsive typing experience thanks to its 22mm double-stage spring. It offers a heavier actuation force, adding a touch of weight to each keystroke for a satisfying and substantial typing feel. It's important to note that the type of switch used can greatly impact the overall typing experience.

In conclusion, the Gateron Beer tactile switch excels in providing a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel with stepped tactility, making it a great choice for those seeking a lighter and more subtle tactile experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch offers a bouncy and responsive typing feel with a heavier actuation force, catering to individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing style. If you're looking for similar results in terms of sound and feel, both switches provide unique qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience based on your preferences.

Conclusion

In summary, when considering between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, your choice should depend on your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a clacky sound signature, the Beer tactile switch with its 50 grams bottom out force and characteristic clacky sound may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier actuation force and a bouncy typing experience, the WS Red linear switch with its 67 grams bottom out force and double-stage spring may be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve with your mechanical keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Beer Tactile

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

Learn more

Wuque Studio WS Red Linear

$3.50 per 10

Learn more