Gateron Glory Red vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Red and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Glory Red and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl stand out as compelling options for users seeking a linear experience, yet they offer distinct advantages and sensations that cater to different preferences. The Glory Red switch is celebrated for its lighter feel and pleasing travel distance, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize an enjoyable, tactile typing experience without any audible click. On the other hand, the WS Pearl switch introduces a unique feature: ball-bearings that significantly reduce friction during keystrokes, resulting in an exceptionally smooth action that many users describe as surreal. This switch also produces a medium-high pitched sound, adding a delightful auditory element to the typing experience. With the Glory Red emphasizing an effortless feel and the WS Pearl focusing on silky, creamy smoothness, both switches cater to their respective audiences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
16mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Glory Red and Wuque Studio WS Pearl both feature nylon as their primary housing material, comprising both the top and bottom housings. This choice of material significantly influences the overall acoustics and tactile response of each switch. Nylon, being a softer plastic, allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as it absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, both switches create a similar auditory experience that is characterized by a duller and rounder sound, making them appealing to those who prioritize quietness and richness in their typing experience.
While both switches utilize nylon for their housings, the design elements and internal mechanisms may lead to distinct typing experiences despite the shared material. If the two switches diverge in their internal components or actuation characteristics, the feel and feedback you experience may differ. The bottom housing, in particular, plays a critical role in the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback when typing. Therefore, even though they employ the same nylon material throughout, there could be noticeable variations in how the switches respond to pressure and the sensation felt when bottoming out or releasing a key.
Regardless of the potential differences in internal design, the use of nylon in both the Gateron Glory Red and Wuque Studio WS Pearl ensures that they will deliver a similar acoustic quality. The inherent properties of nylon – its softness and sound-absorbing capabilities – lead to comparable sound profiles in both cases. Typists who appreciate the characteristics of nylon housings can expect a satisfying experience with either switch, as both are likely to yield a pleasing auditory outcome during use.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, notable differences arise in their actuation forces. The Glory Red features an actuation force of 45 grams, which is heavier than the WS Pearl’s 30 grams. This difference suggests that the WS Pearl is better suited for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, making it favorable for extended use during work or lengthy gaming sessions. In contrast, the heftier actuation force of the Glory Red may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing. In terms of bottom out force, the WS Pearl has a defined bottom out force of 58 grams, whereas the bottom out force for the Glory Red remains unknown. This further emphasizes the difference in typing feel, as the Pearl offers a tangible resistance when bottoming out, adding to its typing experience, while the Glory Red’s lack of specification means users may need to test it to fully understand its feel. Overall, the WS Pearl is the lighter option, while the Glory Red provides a heavier response, catering to different user preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Glory Red linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Glory Red the longer travel option, providing a more substantial feel when pressed, which may appeal to users who prefer a deeper keypress experience. In contrast, the WS Pearl's shorter travel distance could be more appealing to gamers seeking quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation. Ultimately, those who prefer a more responsive touch might favor the WS Pearl due to its slightly reduced travel, while users looking for a fuller keystroke may opt for the Gateron Glory Red. Despite the close proximity in travel distances, this small difference can make a notable impact on the typing experience.
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 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Glory Red linear switch provides a more subdued acoustic profile, which is typically smooth and unobtrusive, making it a good choice for individuals who prefer minimal distraction while typing. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switch has a distinctive sound signature characterized as high-pitched and marbly. This means that each keystroke produces a sharp and crisp sound that can be reminiscent of two billiard balls striking one another. The clacky nature of the WS Pearl adds a degree of percussiveness that can be particularly satisfying for users who appreciate auditory feedback during their typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Glory Red switch is known for its smooth keystroke and pleasing travel distance, providing an enjoyable typing experience overall. In comparison, the WS Pearl elevates the notion of smoothness to the next level, thanks to its unique ball-bearing mechanism that minimizes friction. Users will often describe the feel of the WS Pearl as silky and creamy, offering an exceptionally buttery typing sensation. This difference in engineering results in the WS Pearl not only feeling lighter but also allowing for effortless gliding across keys, making typing feel almost surreal.
In summary, while the Gateron Glory Red and Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches each embody their own unique qualities, both serve to enhance the typing experience in different ways. Users who prefer a sound that is more muted may favor the Glory Red, whereas those who delight in an audible, sharp click can opt for the WS Pearl. Similarly, while the Glory Red offers a smooth experience, the WS Pearl goes above and beyond with its luxurious, frictionless feel. Ultimately, each switch caters to different preferences, allowing users to choose according to their sound and tactile needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, consider your typing preferences and style. If you favor a lighter key feel with a straightforward smooth keystroke that offers an enjoyable typing experience, then the Glory Red will suit you well, especially for fast, responsive typing or gaming. However, if you're looking for an exceptionally smooth and refined feel, enhanced by ball-bearings that drastically reduce friction, you may find the WS Pearl to be your switch of choice. The WS Pearl also presents a medium actuation force, making it suitable for those who appreciate a bit more resistance for a satisfying press. Additionally, if you prefer a distinctive high-pitched sound signature with a clacky, marbly quality that adds character to your typing experience, the WS Pearl will likely resonate with you more than the Glory Red. So, ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you lean towards a lightweight, smooth action or a more tactile, sophisticated typing feel with a higher sound profile.
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