Jwick Ginger Milk vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl
An in-depth look at the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice of the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl offers two intriguing yet distinct typing experiences, both falling under the category of linear switches. The Ginger Milk switches are celebrated for their soft, pastel aesthetic, providing a silky smooth and approachable feel during typing, complemented by a muted yet snappy sound profile that caters to those seeking a comforting atmosphere while they work or game. In contrast, the WS Pearl switches stand out for their innovative use of ball-bearings, which dramatically reduce friction during keystrokes, resulting in an exceptionally smooth and almost surreal typing experience. The medium-high pitched sound signature of the Pearls adds a distinct character, making them appealing to users who prefer a more distinctive acoustic experience. Both switches lend themselves well to different preferences—be it a nurturing touch with the Ginger Milk or the futuristic smoothness of the WS Pearl. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Spring
16mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl, a significant distinction arises from the types of materials used in the construction of their top housings. The Ginger Milk switch features a polycarbonate top housing, which is characterized by its stiffer structure. This stiffness results in a sharper and crisper sound profile, enhancing vocal clarity and resonance when the switch is activated. In contrast, the WS Pearl opts for a nylon top housing, known for its softer composition. The characteristic of nylon enables it to absorb more sound, leading to a deeper and fuller auditory experience, which provides a notably rounder sound. Thus, while both switches utilize quality materials, they confer distinctly different acoustic signatures based on their top housing composition.
On the other hand, when analyzing the bottom housings of both switches, we find that both the Ginger Milk and the WS Pearl utilize nylon. This shared material leads to a similar sound profile in the bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and rounder sound. The properties of nylon contribute to sound absorption, allowing for a softer bottom-out feel regardless of the brand. Consequently, while the Ginger Milk presents a more pronounced sound on the release due to its polycarbonate top, the bottom sound experience remains uniform across both switches thanks to the use of nylon in the bottom housing.
Overall, the contrast between the polycarbonate top of the Ginger Milk and the nylon top of the WS Pearl creates a unique sound experience for each switch. The sharper character of the Ginger Milk might appeal more to those who enjoy a more defined keystroke, particularly in environments where clarity is critical, while the WS Pearl caters to users seeking a softer, mellower typing experience. However, both switches provide a complementary interaction through their nylon bottoms, allowing for a cohesive tonal integrity that highlights the advantages of each housing's material. The duality of experiences between them, thanks to the differing top materials, illustrates the diverse nature of mechanical switches and how they can be fine-tuned to cater to user preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Ginger Milk requires a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the WS Pearl offers a lighter actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, making it ideal for those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, as the lower weight can lead to less finger fatigue. Both switches offer a unique feel based on their forces, with the Ginger Milk catering to the preference for a stronger push, while the WS Pearl provides a lighter experience. Ultimately, if you prioritize a heavier switch for a more tactile typing experience, the Ginger Milk would be the better choice; if you prefer a lighter feel, the WS Pearl is preferable.
Travel distance
The Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Ginger Milk offers a bit more depth in its keypress, which can provide a more satisfying feel for those who prefer a heavier feedback sensation. On the other hand, the WS Pearl's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers and those seeking quicker response times, resulting in a more abrupt switch action that can enhance performance in fast-paced scenarios. Overall, if you're aiming for a more responsive experience, the WS Pearl would be the better choice, while the Ginger Milk is suited for those who appreciate a deeper, more substantial keypress.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Ginger Milk has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ginger Milk for $4.25.
The Wuque Studio WS Pearl comes in at $6.00 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
When comparing the sound profiles of the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switches, the Ginger Milk offers a muted, snappy sound that aligns with its neutral descriptor, providing an unintrusive auditory experience suitable for various environments, whether at home or in an office setting. On the other hand, the WS Pearl features a medium-high pitched sound signature that can be a bit more pronounced, though specifics on its exact vocal character are somewhat sparse. It’s important to keep in mind that the sound of these switches can vary significantly based on the keyboard they are used with and the type of keycaps chosen, potentially affecting how they are experienced.
In terms of feel, the Ginger Milk switch excels with its silky smoothness, described as buttery, which indicates a very fluid typing experience. This makes them approachable and comfortable for extended typing sessions, fostering a sense of effortless engagement with each keystroke. The WS Pearl, however, shines through its unique construction that employs ball-bearings to reduce friction, culminating in an exceptionally smooth feeling that is distinctly pleasing during use. While both switches deliver a smooth experience, the mechanism by which they achieve this differs, with the Ginger Milk relying on its design to provide a soft push feel, while the Pearl's ball-bearing system enhances that sensation even further.
In summary, both the Jwick Ginger Milk and Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switches offer delightful experiences, but they do so through different attributes. The Ginger Milk provides a muted sound and buttery feel, making it a versatile choice for all users, while the WS Pearl boasts a medium-high sound and an extraordinary smooth keystroke due to its innovative design. Depending on personal preference, one might find each switch appealing in its own right; those who seek a more subdued, smooth typing experience may lean towards the Ginger Milk, while those who prioritize minimal friction might be drawn to the unique construction of the WS Pearl. Ultimately, the decision comes down to what qualities are most important to the user’s typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when selecting between the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switches, consider your personal typing preferences and the specific experiences you want to achieve. If you appreciate a switch with a medium-heavy actuation force that provides a smooth and muted typing sensation, the Jwick Ginger Milk is the way to go. Its 63.5g bottoming force and buttery feel create a comforting and approachable experience, making it a versatile choice for both work and casual typing. On the other hand, if you seek a lighter feel with a unique smoothness that comes from the ball-bearing mechanism, the WS Pearl might suit your needs better. With its 58g bottom out force and medium-high pitched sound profile, the WS Pearl offers a surreal typing experience that is both responsive and enjoyable, especially for those who prioritize fluid keystrokes. Ultimately, your choice should hinge on whether you favor the plush, cushioned feedback of the Ginger Milk or the distinct, refined smoothness of the WS Pearl, as both switches cater to different typing styles and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
