Gateron CM vs. Wuque Studio WS Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options to choose from. Two popular switches to consider are the Gateron CM, a linear switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Brown, a tactile switch. The CM switch stands out with its unique full nylon housing, providing a richer and deeper sound signature compared to conventional polycarbonate housings. They also offer an impeccably smooth typing experience, thanks to the factory lube job, making each keystroke feel like a graceful glide. With their lengthened, dual-staged spring, the CM switches deliver a bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Brown switches strike a harmonious balance between responsiveness and comfort with their medium-light actuation force. This ensures fatigue-free typing during long sessions. Enthusiasts particularly appreciate the familiar and delightful auditory experience of the WS Brown switches, thanks to their nylon housing and POM stem combination. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best switch choice for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CM and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches both feature nylon top and bottom housings. This classic switch housing material offers similar benefits for both switches. Typing on switches with nylon housings results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a comparable auditory experience when typing on both the Gateron CM and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches.
While both switches share the same nylon housing material, the qualities each housing brings to the switch are split between the top and bottom housings for switches with different top and bottom housing materials. The impact of the bottom housing is more pronounced on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. On the other hand, the top housing has a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, if the Gateron CM and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches have different top and bottom housings, users can anticipate nuanced differences in sound and feel depending on which housing is used for the specific switch.
In summary, the Gateron CM and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches both utilize nylon as the material for their top and bottom housings. This common choice of housing material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches. However, if the top and bottom housings vary between the two switches, users may experience differences in the bottom-out sound and feel, as well as the sound produced when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The CM switch has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy. On the other hand, the WS Brown switch has an actuation force of unavailable grams, thus leaving us without specific information on this aspect. However, its bottom out force is 55 grams, which is classified as medium-light.
Considering weight, some users may prefer a lighter switch like the WS Brown, as it allows for easier typing over extended periods of time. This is particularly useful for those who use their keyboards for work or engage in long gaming sessions. However, those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience may opt for a switch with a heavier force, such as the CM switch. With its medium-heavy actuation and bottom out forces, the CM switch provides a satisfying level of resistance for those seeking a more pronounced keystroke feel.
In terms of actuation force, the Gateron CM switch requires 55 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the exact force for the WS Brown switch is unknown. However, since the WS Brown switch has a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, it can be assumed that the actuation force would be similar or slightly lighter than the CM switch. Therefore, users can expect comparable results in terms of actuation force between the two switches.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch is slightly heavier than the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, with higher actuation and bottom out forces. While the exact actuation force of the WS Brown switch is unknown, its medium-light bottom out force suggests it will provide a relatively lighter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences, with the CM switch offering a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer heavier forces, while the WS Brown switch provides a lighter and potentially more comfortable typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch have slightly different travel distances. The CM has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Brown has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, both switches fall within the range of what is considered standard. However, if you prefer a faster response time, the CM with its shorter travel distance may be a better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more hearty and deep feeling when pressing down on a key, the WS Brown with its longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on your personal preference for responsiveness or depth.
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 Brown comes in at $3.50 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
The Gateron CM linear switch is well-known for its distinctive sound profile. It has a bassy sound, characterized by a deeper and richer tone during key presses. This switch produces a thocky sound, which can be described as a deep and satisfying "thud" or "knock" when pressed and released. Additionally, the CM switch has a low-pitched sound, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch's sound qualities are not specified, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison. However, keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron CM linear switch offers a range of desirable qualities. It provides a buttery and polished typing experience, meaning that the keystrokes are smooth, fluid, and uniform. These switches have a refined finish and reduced friction, resulting in a sleek and frictionless key travel. Another term used to describe the feel of the CM switch is creamy, indicating a smooth and buttery typing experience similar to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. The WS Brown tactile switch's feel is not described, so a direct comparison cannot be made.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch stands out for its distinctive sound and smooth typing experience provided by its full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job. It offers a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, while delivering a buttery, polished, and creamy typing sensation. On the other hand, the specific sound and feel qualities of the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch are not mentioned, making it difficult to make a direct comparison. However, if you are seeking a similar sound and feel experience as the CM switch, consider looking for other switches with nylon housings and factory lubing for a smooth and satisfying typing journey.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a deeper and richer sound profile with a bouncy typing experience, the Gateron CM linear switch would be a great choice for you. Its full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job contribute to its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound, while also providing a buttery, polished, creamy, or frictionless typing experience.
On the other hand, if you value a harmonious blend of familiarity and innovation with a medium-light actuation force for fatigue-free typing, the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch would be a suitable option. Its familiar nylon housing and POM stem combination deliver a delightful auditory experience, although specific sound characteristics are not described. In terms of feel, no descriptors are provided for the WS Brown.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron CM linear and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch depends on your personal preference for sound and feel. Both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what aspects are most important to you in order to make an informed decision.
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