Gateron Beer vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch, you are presented with distinct options catering to different preferences. The Beer switch stands out for its mesmerizing translucent green color reminiscent of a Tsingtao beer bottle, along with its refreshingly lightweight feel and stepped tactility that offers a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch from Wuque Studio boasts a design focused on reducing noise levels without the use of silicone dampeners, providing a quiet and responsive typing experience that is both tranquil and precise. Each switch offers its own set of characteristics and advantages, but diving deeper beyond generalities will help you determine which switch best suits your individual needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Beer and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear both feature different materials for their top and bottom housing, with the Beer using polycarbonate for both and the WS Silent Linear using nylon for both. The polycarbonate top and bottom housing of the Beer create a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, which is ideal for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear's nylon housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite their differences, both switches provide unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences in typing experience.
The choice of housing material for switches can significantly impact the overall typing experience. With the Beer's polycarbonate top and bottom housing, users can expect a clear and resonant sound when pressing down on keys, which is ideal for those who prefer a crisper feel. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear's nylon housing delivers a quieter and more muted sound, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a softer typing experience. Despite their differences, both switches offer quality housing materials that contribute to the overall sound and feel of the keys, catering to a variety of typing preferences.
In terms of sound production, the top and bottom housing materials play a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience. The split qualities between the top and bottom housing of a switch mean that the characteristics of each material are felt differently when pressing down on a key versus when letting go. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Whether using polycarbonate or nylon housing, both the Gateron Beer and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience for users looking for specific sound and feel characteristics in their switches.
Weight
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Beer is lighter at 50 grams, while the WS Silent Linear has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Beer would be a better option, as it requires less force to both actuate and bottom out. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the WS Silent Linear would be the choice, as it requires a heavier force to bottom out. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range, making them suitable for gamers looking for faster response times. The Beer has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the WS Silent Linear, which could potentially provide a quicker key press. However, the WS Silent Linear offers a tad more depth, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel when typing. Overall, both switches offer similar travel distances that cater to those seeking a shorter key press experience.
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 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Beer tactile switch offers a characteristic clacky sound signature, known for its sharp and percussive nature when pressed. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch provides a more muted and subdued sound profile due to its innovative design that reduces noise without the use of silicone dampeners. Depending on personal preference, the Beer switch may appeal to those who enjoy a more audible typing experience, while the WS Silent Linear switch is ideal for those seeking a quieter working environment.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is described as easy-to-press with a stepped tactility that provides a subtle two-stage feel during key presses. This offers a responsive and low-impact typing experience, suitable for reducing finger fatigue during extended use. In comparison, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch offers a mild typing experience with a gentle feel that falls into a safe middle-ground zone. Both switches offer unique tactile qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Beer switch emphasizing light actuation force and the WS Silent Linear switch focusing on a comfortable and approachable typing feel.
Overall, the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Beer switch provides a clacky sound and easy-to-press tactile feedback, while the WS Silent Linear switch delivers a muted sound and mild typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for typing sound, feel, and overall user experience, either switch can provide a satisfying and enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience. If a user enjoys a more audible typing experience, the Beer switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if a quieter working environment is desired, the WS Silent Linear switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different needs and preferences in the realm of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, consider your preferences in terms of bottom out force, sound, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a unique clacky sound signature, the Beer tactile switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and value a more subdued and muted sound profile, along with a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users, the WS Silent Linear switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific characteristics and features that align with your typing style and preferences.
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