Gateron Glory Red vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Red and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the merits of different types based on their typing preferences and gaming needs. The Gateron Glory Red switches stand out for their smooth, linear keystroke, characterized by a lighter touch that makes for an effortless typing experience and appealing travel distance. This makes them an excellent choice for users who prefer rapid key presses and a quieter experience. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches offer a much more pronounced tactile response, featuring a robust 70g bump that not only provides satisfying feedback but also produces a distinctive "thocky" sound thanks to their nylon housings. This switch may be more appealing to those who enjoy a tangible sensation with each keystroke and appreciate auditory feedback during use. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches would depend on whether you value a smooth, rapid keystroke or a more immersive, tactile experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Glory Red and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile, it's notable that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. Nylon is a widely recognized material in the mechanical keyboard community for its acoustic properties, particularly its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic arises from nylon's relatively softer plastic composition, which helps absorb sound rather than reflect it, resulting in a more muted auditory experience. Therefore, both switches are expected to deliver a similar sound signature when typed on, producing a warm and rounded acoustic response that enthusiasts often seek.
While both the Gateron Glory Red and WS Heavy Tactile share the same nylon material for their housings, other variables, such as the design and internal components of the switches, may contribute to different tactile and auditory experiences. Although the material contributes significantly to sound quality, the feel of the switch is primarily influenced by its design and intended purpose. For instance, while the Glory Red is known for its linear feel, the WS Heavy Tactile features a noticeable tactile bump. Hence, while they might share similar acoustic characteristics due to their identical housing materials, the two switches will likely perform differently under the fingers due to their different tactile feedback.
In summary, both the Gateron Glory Red and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile utilize nylon in their housing construction, leading to a shared acoustic profile that emphasizes a fuller and more rounded sound. The impact of the housing on the auditory experience is evident, especially considering how the switch bottom affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound upon releasing a key. However, it's essential to recognize that even with the same material, the distinct designs of each switch can lead to differing tactile experiences, highlighting the complexity of mechanical switch performances beyond just the materials used.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, both exhibit the same actuation force of 45 grams, which allows for a similar level of responsiveness when initiating keystrokes. This characteristic makes them suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming, especially for users who prefer lighter switches. However, a significant difference arises in their bottom out forces; while the Glory Red's bottom out force is not specified, the WS Heavy Tactile features a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams. This indicates that while both switches feel similar upon actuation, the WS Heavy Tactile provides a more substantial feedback when pressed all the way down, catering to those who enjoy a firmer typing experience. Consequently, the Glory Red is the lighter option when it comes to overall feel, whereas the WS Heavy Tactile leans towards a heavier touch, appealing to those who favor a more pronounced response from their keyboard.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, it is clear that they differ. The Glory Red features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the longer option, while the WS Heavy Tactile has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it the shorter choice. This distinction means that users who prefer a more responsive typing or gaming experience may lean towards the WS Heavy Tactile due to its shorter travel distance, allowing for faster actuation. However, those who appreciate a deeper key press and a more substantial feel might prefer the Gateron Glory Red, as its longer travel distance offers a more pronounced tactile experience. In summary, the Glory Red provides a more pronounced depth, while the WS Heavy Tactile enables quicker response times due to its shorter actuation distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Red has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Red for $4.19.
The Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile comes in at $3.50 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 it comes to sound, the Gateron Glory Red linear switch is relatively quiet, providing a smooth and low-noise typing experience that is favored for a distraction-free environment. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch produces a rich auditory character marked by a "thocky" sound profile that is deep and resonant. This contrast makes typing on the WS Heavy Tactile both engaging and satisfying, as its clacky and high-pitched resonance offers a sharp and percussive auditory experience. However, it’s important to note that the overall sound can also be influenced by the keyboard's build, keycap material, and mounting style.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Glory Red switch provides a smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback, allowing for seamless presses that cater to fast typists and gamers who prefer an uninterrupted experience. Conversely, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch excels in tactile feedback, featuring a prominent 70g tactile bump that delivers an invigorating and snappy experience. This switch not only provides a medium level of tactility that's neither overwhelming nor subtle but also has bouncy characteristics that give a lively feel and encourage faster typing. Each keypress offers strong feedback, making the typing experience more immersive and engaging for users who appreciate pronounced tactile sensations.
In summary, the Gateron Glory Red linear switch is ideal for those who favor a smooth and quiet keystroke, making it perfect for distraction-free environments. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch enhances the typing experience with its satisfying tactile feedback and rich sound, appealing to users who enjoy an engaging auditory and tactile experience. Depending on personal preference for either a linear or tactile switch, users can choose the one that fits their typing style and desired engagement level, knowing these subjective qualities can greatly influence the overall satisfaction with their keyboard.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when considering your switch options between the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, your personal preferences and typing habits will guide your choice. If you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience without tactile feedback, the Glory Red switch is ideal for you. This switch is particularly great for gaming, where rapid key presses and fluidity are essential, allowing you to execute commands with minimal resistance. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced tactile feeling and the satisfying auditory feedback of typing, the WS Heavy Tactile switch would be the better choice. With its 70-gram actuation force, it delivers a firm and engaging experience that many typists find rewarding, particularly for extended writing sessions where tactile feedback can enhance comfort and accuracy. Additionally, the "thocky" sound profile of the WS Heavy Tactile adds an enjoyable auditory dimension that complements its tactile feel, making it distinctively satisfying for enthusiasts. In summary, your decision should reflect whether you prefer the light, smooth nature of linear switches for quick gaming responses or the engaging tactile feedback suited for typing and immersive sound experiences.
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