Gateron CM vs. Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing and contrasting mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CM and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear are two options that stand out. The CM switches break away from convention with their full nylon housing, offering a deeper sound signature and a smoother typing experience due to their impeccable factory lube job and lengthened, dual-staged spring. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear switches provide a high-pitched typing experience with a transparent polycarbonate top housing and UHMWPE bottom housing, allowing for maximum RGB lighting customization. The lightly lubed POM stem ensures minimal friction and a satisfyingly smooth keystroke. Both switches have their own distinct qualities that make them desirable. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Double-staged stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CM and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches differ significantly in terms of the top and bottom housings. The CM switch features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the WS Aurora Clear switch has a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a clearer and more resonant sound profile. Additionally, the clear polycarbonate housing of the WS Aurora Clear switch is ideal for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for better light transmission.
Similarly, the bottom housing materials also differ between the two switches. The CM switch utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile upon keystrokes. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear switch features a UHWMPE bottom housing, a newer material known for its bright sound signature. This material produces resonant clacks when typing on switches with such housings. It offers a distinctive sound experience, different from the deeper and fuller sound of nylon in the CM switch.
When comparing and contrasting the top and bottom housing materials, it is clear that they play a significant role in the overall sound profile of a switch. The bottom housing material affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. While the Gateron CM and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches have different housing materials, they both offer unique sound profiles and characteristics. Whether it's the deeper and fuller sound of nylon or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate and UHWMPE, these switches provide distinct options for keyboard enthusiasts to choose from.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, we find that they both have similar bottom out forces of 63.5 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy. However, there is a slight difference in their actuation forces. The Gateron CM has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the WS Aurora Clear has an actuation force of 53 grams. Both switches fall within the medium-heavy category.
Considering the weight of the switches, some individuals may prefer a lighter actuation force as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. This lighter actuation force of the WS Aurora Clear could be suitable for those who use their keyboards for extended periods, such as in work settings or during marathon gaming sessions. On the other hand, some users may prefer a heavier actuation force to provide a more substantial typing experience. In this case, the Gateron CM switch with its slightly heavier actuation force would be a better choice.
In conclusion, although the actuation forces slightly differ between the Gateron CM and WS Aurora Clear switches, they both share a medium-heavy bottom out force. Thus, users can expect similar results in terms of how the keys feel when fully pressed down. Ultimately, the preference for a lighter or heavier actuation force depends on the user's personal typing style and the intended use of the keyboard.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Comparing the two, the WS Aurora Clear has a slightly longer travel distance than the CM. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers who value fast response times. These shorter travel distances are preferred for their increased responsiveness. However, some individuals may find the shorter travel distances to be too abrupt, and may prefer switches with longer travel distances for a more hearty depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference – those seeking a slightly longer travel distance may opt for the WS Aurora Clear, while those who prefer a slightly shorter travel distance may choose the Gateron CM.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
The Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear comes in at $8.00 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 CM linear switch offers a deep and rich bassy sound profile, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. It also has a thocky sound, producing a deep and satisfying "thud" or "knock" when the key is pressed and released. The sound of the CM switch is low-pitched, with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches.
On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch produces a high-pitched sound. It offers a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, which may be preferred by those who prefer a brighter and more vibrant sound profile.
In terms of feel, both switches provide a buttery typing experience. They offer a smooth and fluid keystroke, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The switches also have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
The Gateron CM switch additionally promises a bouncy typing experience due to its lengthened, dual-staged spring, which adds a sense of springiness to each key press. However, the feel of the WS Aurora Clear switch is described as mild, offering a more gentle typing sensation compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It falls into a safe and middle-ground zone, approachingable to most users.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch differ in sound characteristics. The CM switch provides a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound, while the WS Aurora Clear switch produces a high-pitched sound. However, both switches offer a buttery and polished typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Therefore, if you prefer a deeper and richer sound with a bouncy typing experience, the Gateron CM switch is a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a high-pitched sound with a mild and approachable typing sensation, the WS Aurora Clear switch would be a good option.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a bold sound signature and bouncy typing experience, then the Gateron CM linear switch is the choice for you. With its full nylon housing, impeccable factory lube job, and lengthened, dual-staged spring, you can expect a gliding and satisfying typing journey. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, high-pitched typing experience with maximum RGB lighting customization, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch is a great option. Its transparent polycarbonate top housing and UHMWPE bottom housing, along with the lightly lubed POM stem, offer minimal friction and a satisfyingly smooth keystroke. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a bassy, thocky, low-pitched sound and a buttery, polished, creamy, or frictionless feel, go for the Gateron CM. Conversely, if you prefer a high-pitched sound and a buttery, mild, or polished feel, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear is the way to go.
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