Gateron CM vs. Wuque Studio WS Dash
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, choosing the right one can make a world of difference in your typing experience. The Gateron CM switch stands out for its innovative design, featuring a full nylon housing that offers a rich, bassy sound profile paired with an impressively smooth keypress, thanks to its exceptional factory lube job and dual-staged spring. This creates a unique typing sensation that many enthusiasts describe as a "buttery," "thocky" glide with a satisfying bounce. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Dash Hall Effect switch, a re-imagining of the Magnetic Jade, delivers a bright and clacky auditory feedback combined with a silky-smooth keystroke, making it a standout choice for those who appreciate a refined touch in their typing rhythm. While the CM is ideal for those seeking a deep, resonant sound alongside an effortlessly smooth typing experience, the WS Dash appeals to users who desire a lively, engaging keystroke with distinct auditory characteristics. 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
55g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CM and the Wuque Studio WS Dash, it is evident that there are distinct differences in the composition of their top housings. The Gateron CM features a nylon top housing, which is known for imparting a deeper, fuller sound profile. The use of nylon, a relatively softer plastic, allows for sound absorption that contributes to a rounder acoustic experience when typing. This characteristic makes it appealing for those who prefer a warmer sound signature in their switches. In contrast, the WS Dash is equipped with a polycarbonate top housing, a material recognized for its rigidity and clarity. This translates to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it suitable for users who favor a more resonant typing experience. The aesthetic advantage of polycarbonate being a translucent material also enhances the RGB lighting effects, adding to its visual appeal.
Interestingly, both switches employ nylon for their bottom housings, which creates some common ground in their sound characteristics. This shared material choice means that when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feedback, both the Gateron CM and the WS Dash deliver a similar deep and fuller auditory experience. The nylon’s capacity to absorb sound is consistent across both models, resulting in a smoother typing experience as users press the keys down. Thus, while the top housings create distinct sound profiles, the identical bottom housings ensure that there is a shared quality in the tactile feedback and acoustic output when the keys are fully depressed.
Ultimately, the combination of different materials in the top and bottom housings of these switches results in unique sound signatures influenced by their respective properties. The Gateron CM benefits from the sound-absorbing characteristics of nylon on both ends, dedicating its overall experience to a softer, warmer auditory profile. Conversely, the WS Dash’s polycarbonate top housing combined with the nylon bottom creates a separation of qualities, allowing for a vibrant sound when releasing the key that contrasts with its similar bottom-out experience to the Gateron CM. Thus, while the two switches utilize different materials for their top housings, they maintain a familiar auditory depth and feel when pressed, showcasing how housing materials play a significant role in the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CM linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, there is a notable distinction in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gateron CM has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it suitable for users who appreciate a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the WS Dash boasts a significantly lighter actuation force of just 30 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, appealing to those who prefer a lighter touch, which can facilitate longer typing sessions or extended gaming. Therefore, while both switches provide different tactile experiences, the Gateron CM is the heavier option, while the WS Dash is the lighter choice. If a user were to choose either switch based on their force preferences, they would experience a similar result in terms of the overall pre-travel and actuation feel, but the physical effort required for keystrokes would vary considerably between the two.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, we observe that the Gateron CM has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the longer option, while the WS Dash measures slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. Although the difference is minimal, it may have implications for user experience. Gamers looking for quicker key presses might favor the WS Dash due to its shorter travel distance, which can lead to faster response times. Conversely, those who enjoy a more traditional feel with a noticeable depth might prefer the Gateron CM for its greater travel distance. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, highlighting the trade-offs between rapid responsiveness and a more substantial typing experience.
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 Dash comes in at $7.49 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 stands out with its deep, rich acoustic profile, often described as bassy and thocky. The combination of its full nylon housing and low-pitched characteristic results in a satisfying, mellow tone reminiscent of a low-frequency instrument, providing a pleasant auditory experience as users type. This contrasts with the WS Dash hall effect switch, which is noted for its bright and clacky sound signature. While the exact descriptors for the WS Dash’s sound haven’t been detailed, one can anticipate a distinct auditory feedback that diverges from the deep notes of the CM. However, users should remember that the overall sound is influenced by the keyboard construction and keycap material, meaning one may still achieve a somewhat clacky response with the CM depending on setup.
When examining the feel, the Gateron CM switches excel with descriptors like buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless, indicating an impressively smooth keystroke experience. This is largely due to an outstanding factory lube application, which minimizes resistance and allows for effortless typing. The extended, dual-staged spring enhances the experience further by adding a touch of bounce to each keystroke. In contrast, information regarding the feel of the WS Dash switches is currently unknown. It is important to note that having a smoother typing experience is generally achievable through various enhancements in switch design, factory lubrication, and the keyboard build itself, so one could expect a high standard of feel from both options under the right circumstances.
In summary, the Gateron CM linear switch is celebrated for its deep, bassy sound and exceptionally smooth, frictionless typing experience, making it a standout choice for users seeking a richer auditory and tactile sensation. The WS Dash hall effect switch, on the other hand, offers a brighter sound profile, though its tactile qualities remain uncertain. Both switches have their unique attributes, allowing for diverse preferences among users. Ultimately, both the CM and WS Dash can deliver satisfying results, but the experience may vary significantly based on individual setups and preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch ultimately hinges on your individual typing preferences and the type of experience you seek. If you favor a medium-heavy tactile feel and a deeper, richer sound profile, the Gateron CM is an excellent choice. Its full nylon housing, along with a meticulous factory lube job, ensures a smooth and polished typing experience that many users find gratifying. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a “thocky” sound and desire a typing sensation that feels both refined and slightly bouncy. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and a bright, clacky sound signature, the WS Dash might be more suitable for you. These hall effect switches excel in delivering a silky smooth keystroke with a playful auditory feedback, making them perfect for users who enjoy a lively typing experience that doesn't compromise on smoothness. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a heavier, bassier typing experience with the CM or lean towards the lighter, more dynamic response of the WS Dash, ensuring you find the switch that best enhances your personal keyboard journey.
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