Gateron Beer vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Beer and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. On one hand, the Gateron Beer switches stand out with their translucent green design inspired by Tsingtao beer bottles, providing a light and refreshing typing experience with a stepped tactility and characteristic clacky sound. These switches are easy to press and are ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches prioritize a quiet typing experience, perfect for office settings, with precision-engineered stem railings for noise reduction without silicone dampeners. These switches offer a medium tactility and a blend of tranquility and responsiveness. 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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile, it is evident that both switches offer distinct advantages based on their construction. The Beer's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for enhancing RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, creating a more rounded typing experience. While the Beer's polycarbonate bottom housing mirrors the qualities of its top housing, the WS Silent Tactile's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, potentially leading to a more satisfying typing experience.
Despite their differences, both the Gateron Beer and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile share the commonality of offering unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. While the Beer's polycarbonate top and bottom housing create a clear and resonant sound profile, the WS Silent Tactile's nylon housing materials absorb more sound, resulting in a duller but fuller sound. These distinctions in sound profile can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users, allowing them to choose between a sharper, crisper sound with the Beer or a deeper, fuller sound with the WS Silent Tactile.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Beer and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile will depend on the user's preference for sound profile and typing experience. With the Beer's polycarbonate housing providing a more resonant and clearer sound, it is well-suited for those seeking a sharper typing experience. Conversely, the WS Silent Tactile's nylon housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, catering to individuals who prefer a more muffled and rounded typing feel. Regardless of the choice made, both switches demonstrate how housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the sound and overall tactile feedback of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, it is clear that they offer different pressure levels. The Beer has a light actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the WS Silent Tactile has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams, with an unknown actuation force. The Beer switch is lighter overall, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, such as during work or gaming. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch offers a heavier push feel, providing a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger force. In both cases, users can expect a unique typing experience based on their personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm. Both switches fall within the range of modern travel distances for mechanical keyboards, with the Beer being slightly shorter than the WS Silent Tactile. Gamers may prefer the Beer for its slightly faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the WS Silent Tactile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for the feel and responsiveness of the key press.
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 Tactile 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 Beer tactile switch is known for its clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch offers a more muted and neutral sound profile, making it ideal for quiet office environments. While the Beer switch provides a louder and more distinct auditory experience, the WS Silent Tactile switch focuses on reducing noise levels without sacrificing tactile feedback.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is praised for being easy to press and offering a stepped tactility, providing a smooth and gentle typing experience. The Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch, on the other hand, is described as accented and invigorating, offering a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Beer switch focusing on light actuation force and a subtle tactile bump, while the WS Silent Tactile switch provides a more immersive and firm typing sensation.
Overall, the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch offer different sound and feel characteristics to cater to varying preferences. If you enjoy a clacky sound and easy-to-press keys, the Beer switch might be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a medium level of tactility, the WS Silent Tactile switch could be the better option. Both switches provide unique qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific environment in which you'll be using the keyboard.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, consider your preferences in terms of sound and feel. If you are looking for a switch with a lighter bottom out force, a clacky sound profile, and stepped tactility, the Beer may be the right choice for you. However, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, a neutral and muted sound profile, and accented, invigorating, mild tactility, the WS Silent Tactile might better suit your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on which characteristics align best with your typing preferences and environment.
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