Kailh Box White vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Are you in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch but not sure which one to choose? Let's compare and contrast two popular options - the Kailh Box White and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches. The Box White switch is perfect for those who crave maximum audio feedback, with its distinctive "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch and accented tactility. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch is designed to elevate your office and work experience, offering exceptional responsiveness and a satisfying bottom-out with reduced switch noise. Unlike traditional silent switches, the WS Silent Linear foregoes silicone dampeners, providing a typing experience that seamlessly blends tranquility and precision. While these general characteristics may help guide your decision, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box White and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Box White features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound. This stiffer plastic allows for a more clear and resonant sound profile, making it ideal for those who prioritize a crisp typing experience. Conversely, the WS Silent Linear utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. So, if you are looking for a switch with a sharper and more transparent sound, the Kailh Box White with polycarbonate top housing would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a switch with a deeper and more mellow sound, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear with its nylon top housing would be a better fit.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Kailh Box White and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear employ nylon as their material of choice. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound experience. Thus, whether you choose the Kailh Box White or the WS Silent Linear, you can expect similar sound qualities during typing due to the use of nylon bottom housing. However, it is important to note that the qualities each housing material brings are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches differ in their housing materials, which ultimately affect their sound profiles. The Box White's polycarbonate top housing generates a sharper and crisper sound, while the WS Silent Linear's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a similar deep and mellow sound experience. In terms of typing feel, the qualities of the bottom housing become more prominent during the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on your preference for a sharper or deeper sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, there are a few notable differences. Firstly, in terms of weight, the Box White switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which falls into the medium range. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch's actuation force is unknown, but its bottom out force is measured at 63.5 grams, making it slightly heavier in comparison, classified as medium-heavy.
For individuals who prefer a lighter touch, the Box White switch might be a better choice as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. This would be particularly suitable for those who use their keyboard for work or engage in long gaming sessions. On the contrary, those seeking a more substantial and pronounced typing experience may lean towards the WS Silent Linear switch due to its slightly heavier push feel.
It is important to note that if the actuation forces of both switches were the same, the results would be similar in terms of the pressure required to initiate a keystroke. However, the bottom out force would still differentiate them, with the WS Silent Linear being inherently heavier. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on personal preference and the specific typing experience one desires.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The Box White has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Silent Linear has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular in the market. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as they offer faster response times. If you value highly responsive input, then the shorter travel distance of the WS Silent Linear might be the better choice for you. However, it's important to note that some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel abrupt. If you prefer a more substantial depth to your keystrokes, then the Kailh Box White clicky switch, with its slightly longer travel distance, might be the more suitable option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box White comes in at $2.76, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear comes in at $4.20.
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
The Kailh Box White clicky switch is known for its resonant and high-pitched sound profile. When typing on these switches, users can expect a sharp and crisp sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. The sound profile is clean and sharp, providing an immersive auditory experience. In terms of feel, the Box White switches have a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. The reduced friction and smooth key travel contribute to a sleek feel while typing.
On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches offer a different sound experience. Described as neutral, muted, and subdued, these switches aim to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. The sound produced by WS Silent Linear switches is softer, quieter, and more dampened, providing a tranquil typing experience. Although not completely silent, these switches offer a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. However, as sound is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, it's important to consider these elements when evaluating the sound quality of the switches.
In terms of feel, the WS Silent Linear switches provide a mild and gentle typing experience. These switches fall within a safe middle-ground zone, making them approachable to most users. The typing feel is not overly pronounced, allowing for comfortable and effortless typing.
Considering all the available information, it's clear that the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box White switch emphasizes a resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy sound, providing maximum audio feedback. The feel of these switches is polished, offering reduced friction and a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch focuses on a neutral, muted, and subdued sound, reducing switch noise and providing tranquility and precision. The feel of these switches is mild and gentle, ensuring a comfortable typing experience.
If the newcomer desires a clicky switch with a crisp and sharp sound profile, along with a polished feel, the Kailh Box White switch would be the recommended choice. However, if the newcomer prefers a quieter typing experience with a more subdued sound signature and a mild typing feel, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch would be the suitable option. It's important to consider personal preferences, typing environment, and other factors such as keycaps and keyboard board when making the final decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who desires maximum audio feedback and enjoys a higher-pitched, crisp, and crunchy sound profile when typing, then the Kailh Box White clicky switch would be a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, it provides a medium actuation force and a polished feel, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, if you want a more tranquil and precise typing experience, without sacrificing responsiveness, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, it offers a medium-heavy actuation force, while featuring stem railings with discreet cutouts that reduce switch noise. The WS Silent Linear switch provides a muted, subdued sound profile and a mild typing experience, suitable for both beginners and advanced users. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preference for sound, feel, and the level of noise you are comfortable with in your environment.
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