Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile. The G Pro 3.0 Red is a linear switch, designed to provide a smooth typing experience. It offers a medium-light actuation force, striking a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. With a frosted light diffuser, this switch allows for vibrant and bright RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile is a tactile switch that is renowned for its exceptional noise reduction. It strikes a delicate balance, offering a medium level of tactility without compromising on a silent profile. These switches feature innovative stem railings with small cutouts, minimizing switch sound while still delivering a satisfyingly crisp bottom-out and responsive return. Both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences, so let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities, allowing you to make an informed decision based on your individual needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile differ in their housing materials, with the former utilizing a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the latter has a nylon housing for both the top and bottom. The polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Red creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a higher-pitched sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is perfect for showcasing RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the WS Silent Tactile generates a deeper and fuller sound, offering a more rounded and duller tone. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a different acoustic experience compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red's polycarbonate top housing.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller tone. While the G Pro 3.0 Red splits the housing materials between the top and bottom, giving each aspect a distinct impact on the sound and feel, the WS Silent Tactile utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a consistent sound characteristic throughout typing. This can be advantageous for those who prefer a uniform typing experience and enjoy the deeper and fuller sound that nylon brings.
In summary, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile differ in their housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Red produces a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon top housing of the WS Silent Tactile generates a deeper and rounder tone. Both switches benefit from the nylon bottom housing, which enhances the sound with its softer nature. However, the WS Silent Tactile offers a consistent sound experience throughout typing due to its use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings. Overall, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, there are notable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams, meaning only a light push is needed to trigger a keystroke. Its bottom out force of 50 grams is also quite light, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile's actuation force is currently unavailable, so it is difficult to determine the exact force required to trigger a keystroke. However, its bottom out force is notably heavier at 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience.
Considering weight preference, those who value a lighter keyboard for extended typing or gaming sessions might lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Red with its lower actuation and bottom out forces. This lighter switch allows for comfortable and prolonged usage without excessive strain. In contrast, individuals who prefer a more robust and solid keystroke may opt for the WS Silent Tactile, as its heavier bottom out force delivers a noticeable tactile feedback and a sense of pressing down firmly. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches relies on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional and deeper travel distance. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers who prioritize faster response times. However, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to be too abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on the user's preference for either a deeper and more traditional travel distance or a shorter and more responsive one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Red for $2.77.
The Wuque Studio WS Silent 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 G Pro 3.0 Red is a neutral switch, meaning it has a moderate sound profile. This makes it suitable for a variety of purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile is also described as a neutral switch in terms of sound. However, it is specifically mentioned that these switches produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. This indicates that the WS Silent Tactile provides a more muted sound experience, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is described as having a creamy, mild, polished, and silky feel. This means that it offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The WS Silent Tactile, on the other hand, is described as having an accented, invigorating, and mild feel. This indicates that it offers a medium level of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle. It provides pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. It is also mentioned that the WS Silent Tactile forgoes the use of silicone dampeners, resulting in a unique typing experience that is devoid of the usual padded feel found in most silent switches.
In conclusion, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch offer a moderate actuation force requirement and a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red provides a creamy, mild, polished, and silky typing experience, while the WS Silent Tactile offers an accented, invigorating, and mild feel. Although they have different characteristics, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the WS Silent Tactile will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly linear switch that offers a smooth typing experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is a great option. With a light bottom out force of 50 grams, it strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. The frosted light diffuser allows for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects, and the medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory experience. It is suitable for both beginners and advanced users, and can be used at home or in a work environment.
On the other hand, if you are seeking a tactile switch that is perfect for your office and work environment, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile is an exceptional choice. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, it offers a medium level of tactility without compromising on noise reduction. The ingenious stem railings with small cutouts minimize switch sound while delivering a satisfyingly crisp bottom-out and responsive return. These switches have a unique design that forgoes the use of silicone dampeners, resulting in a typing experience that is devoid of the usual padded feel found in most silent switches. They provide a blend of tranquility and tactility, making them a great option for those who prioritize a quiet working environment.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is ideal for those who prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience, with a light actuation force and vibrant RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile is perfect for those who want a medium level of tactility, noise reduction, and a crisp typing experience that is devoid of a padded feel. Consider your preferences and working environment to choose the switch that best suits your needs.
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