Gateron CM vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron CM and the Wuque Studio WS Onion are both linear mechanical keyboard switches. However, they bring their own unique features to the table. The CM stands out with its full nylon housing, which not only adds to its durability but also enhances the typing experience by delivering a richer and deeper sound signature. The impeccable factory lube job ensures a smooth and effortless typing journey, giving a sensation of gliding gracefully with each keystroke. Additionally, the CM switches offer a bouncy typing experience, thanks to their lengthened, dual-staged spring. On the other hand, the WS Onion features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. These switches provide a satisfying buttery smooth keystroke feel and a crisp, responsive sensation. The neutral sound profile of the WS Onion adds to its appeal. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Partial box
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
WS CL635 Gold Plated Stainless Spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CM and the Wuque Studio WS Onion differ in terms of their housing materials. The CM features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the WS Onion utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound profile. Visually, the WS Onion's translucent polycarbonate top housing is particularly advantageous for those planning to use RGB lighting.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the CM and the WS Onion employ nylon. This material choice offers similar sound characteristics, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for its softness, enabling it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. Consequently, the housing material contributes to a duller and rounder sound experience.
In terms of the impact on sound and feel, the housing materials play an essential role. With the CM, the bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and overall feel when a key is pressed. Conversely, the top housing has a more prominent influence on the sound when releasing a key. Meanwhile, both the top and bottom housings of the WS Onion contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch, combining the properties of polycarbonate and nylon in their respective aspects.
Overall, while the Gateron CM and the Wuque Studio WS Onion differ in their choice of top housing materials, they both provide quality sound experiences. The CM's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the WS Onion's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. However, as they have nylon as the common bottom housing material, the switches share similarities in terms of the depth and richness of their sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. Starting with the Gateron CM, it has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the actuation force of the WS Onion is unavailable, but it also has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category as well.
Considering weight as a factor, some individuals prefer a lighter typing experience, as it allows them to type for extended periods, ideal for work or long gaming sessions. In this regard, both the Gateron CM and WS Onion can offer similar results since their bottom out forces are identical. However, for those who desire a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, they may prefer options with heavier forces.
It is worth noting that the actuation force of the WS Onion switch is not specified, which makes it difficult to directly compare with the Gateron CM in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, they both share the same bottom out force, suggesting that the overall typing experience may be somewhat similar. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience, with the Gateron CM offering a known actuation force and the WS Onion offering a similar bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron CM linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, the CM switch is the shorter option. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the CM switch due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may find the WS Onion switch with its longer travel distance of 4 mm to be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Onion has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Onion for $5.53.
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 and thocky qualities. With a full nylon housing and an impeccable factory lube job, these switches deliver a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. The low-pitched characteristics of the CM switches also contribute to a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch offers a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound and suits most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user and whether you plan to use the switches at home or work. However, it is important to note that the actual sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the Gateron CM and WS Onion switches provide a buttery, polished typing experience. The CM switches offer a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation, with a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and provides smooth key travel. They are often described as creamy and frictionless, giving a silky sensation when typing. Similarly, the WS Onion switches offer a buttery and polished feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. The materials used and the factory lubing contribute to the sleek typing experience with reduced friction.
Overall, while the Gateron CM and Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switches have some distinct characteristics in terms of sound, such as the CM switches being bassy and thocky while the WS Onion switches have a neutral sound profile, they both offer a buttery and polished feel. This means that if you are looking for a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with reduced friction, both switches can deliver similar results. Remember that the actual sound and feel of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, there are some key factors to consider. Both switches have a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, placing them in the medium-heavy category.
The Gateron CM switches stand out with their full nylon housing, which delivers a richer and deeper sound signature. With an impeccable factory lube job and lengthened, dual-staged springs, these switches provide a bouncy typing experience that feels like gliding gracefully with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches feature a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, offering a buttery smooth keystroke feel that is deeply satisfying. They also provide a crisp and responsive typing experience with a neutral sound profile.
When it comes to sound, the Gateron CM switches are described as bassy, thocky, and low-pitched. Expect a deeper and richer sound profile reminiscent of bass tones. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches have a neutral sound profile, offering a moderate sound profile suitable for most intents and purposes.
In terms of feel, both switches are described as buttery and polished. They provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, resulting in a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. The Gateron CM switches are also described as creamy and frictionless, offering a silky sensation and minimizing any sense of resistance or friction.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch depends on personal preferences. If you prioritize a richer and deeper sound signature, along with a bouncy typing experience, the Gateron CM switches would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth keystroke feel with a crisp and responsive typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches would be a great option. Consider these factors and select the switch that best aligns with your typing preferences.
Mentioned in this article
