Gateron CM vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CM and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The CM switch stands out with its full nylon housing, providing a deeper sound signature and a smooth typing experience thanks to its factory lube job and dual-staged spring design. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch maintains smoothness with a snappy tactile bump and a neutral sound signature. While the CM switch is described as 'Buttery', 'Bassy', and 'Thocky', the WS Light Tactile is categorized as 'Stepped' and 'Neutral'. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style when choosing between these two switches. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CM and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile, one major difference is in the top housing material used. The CM utilizes nylon for its top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile employs polycarbonate for its top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile thanks to the stiffer quality of polycarbonate. This distinction in material choice significantly impacts the sound and feel of typing on these switches, appealing to different preferences in sound profile.
On the other hand, the bottom housing material of both switches is nylon, offering a similar deep and full sound experience when typing. Both switches use this softer plastic for the bottom housing, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound profile. While the top housing material differs between the CM and WS Light Tactile, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound texture and feel. This similarity in housing material showcases how different switches can achieve comparable results by using the same material for certain components.
Overall, the choice of housing material in a switch plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience. Whether it's nylon for a softer and fuller sound or polycarbonate for a sharper and clearer sound, each material brings unique characteristics to the switch. While the Gateron CM and Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile may use different materials for their top housings, the shared nylon bottom housing highlights how material selection influences the overall typing experience. By understanding the impact of housing materials, keyboard enthusiasts can tailor their switch preferences to suit their individual sound and feel preferences.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch reveals some distinct differences. The Gateron CM has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, placing it in the light category. The CM switch provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces, which some users may prefer for added feedback. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile offers a lighter touch, suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions where fatigue may be a concern. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch. The CM switch falls into the category of shorter travel distances, which are preferred by gamers for faster response times. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch with its longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and response speed. Both switches offer distinct advantages, so choosing between them will depend on individual typing preferences.
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 Light 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron CM linear switch is known for its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deeper and richer typing experience with each key press. The full nylon housing of the CM switches contributes to a distinct sound signature, making each keystroke feel more substantial. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. While the WS Light Tactile may not offer the same level of depth and richness in sound as the CM, its snappy and perceptible tactile bump adds a satisfying tactile element to the typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CM linear switch is praised for its buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. The impeccable factory lube job on the CM switches ensures a smooth and fluid keystroke every time, allowing for effortless typing sessions. The dual-staged spring design also contributes to a bouncy typing sensation, adding to the overall tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches are described as having a stepped feel, offering a more mild tactile experience compared to hyper-tactile switches. The easy-to-press nature of the WS Light Tactile switches provides gentle resistance during key presses, making typing comfortable and reducing finger fatigue.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch offers a deep, rich sound profile and a smooth, buttery typing experience, ideal for users looking for a more substantial tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches provide a neutral sound profile and a gentle, easy-to-press typing feel, making them versatile and suitable for a wide range of users. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences. Ultimately, selecting between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a bouncy typing experience with a rich sound profile characterized by a deep bass and satisfying thocky sound, the Gateron CM linear switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, snappy tactile bump with a neutral sound profile, along with an easy-to-press and responsive typing feel, then the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your choice should align with your typing preferences and the overall typing experience you desire.
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