Gateron Glory Yellow vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Yellow 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 Yellow and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl stand out as two compelling options for enthusiasts seeking linear switches. The Glory Yellow is celebrated for its heavier actuation force, providing a satisfying and smooth keystroke with a well-balanced travel distance that many typists enjoy. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a bit more resistance while typing, allowing for greater control and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the WS Pearl offers a truly unique typing experience through its innovative use of ball-bearings, which significantly reduce friction during keystrokes, resulting in an almost surreal smoothness. Additionally, the medium-high pitch sound signature of the WS Pearls adds a distinctive auditory element to the typing experience. Each switch presents its own set of advantages: the Glory Yellow for its robust feel and dependable feedback, and the WS Pearl for its unparalleled smoothness and cutting-edge design. 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
30g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Spring
16mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Glory Yellow switches and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches, it is striking to note that both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This commonality results in a distinct, deeper, and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known for its softer plastic characteristics. The inherent properties of this material help absorb vibrations, leading to a rounder and less shrill typing experience. Consequently, users of either switch can expect similar auditory sensations when typing, with the nylon housing absorbing more sound than harder plastics, thus enhancing the overall typing experience.
While both switches share the same housing material, differences can arise from other aspects of their design, such as the spring and stem configurations. However, with the housing material being identical in both switches, the fundamental typing experience, characterized by a substantial and muted sound, remains consistent across models. This means that regardless of other design factors, users will benefit from a similar tactile and auditory feedback that is pleasing and unique to nylon-housed switches. The pairing of nylon top and bottom housings further emphasizes a unified experience when it comes to sound absorption and overall feedback during use.
In terms of functionality, the nuances of how the top and bottom housings interact can further dictate the final typing experience. In both the Glory Yellow and WS Pearl switches, users will likely notice a dampened bottom-out sound due to the nylon bottom housing, while the upper housing contributes to the sound profile when a key is released. This synergy ensures that both switches deliver a cohesive user experience in terms of sound and feel, reinforcing the understanding that when the same material is employed in both housings, the resulting acoustic and tactile feedback will inherently align, making them comparable for enthusiasts seeking a rich typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch with the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, we find notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Glory Yellow features an actuation force of 50 grams, which is on the heavier side, while the WS Pearl requires only 30 grams for actuation, making it significantly lighter. This means that the WS Pearl is better suited for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, particularly during long typing sessions or gaming marathons. In terms of bottom out force, the WS Pearl has a measured bottom out force of 58 grams, providing a clear feedback when keys are fully pressed down. However, the bottom out force for the Glory Yellow is unknown at this time. If we were to assume it is heavier, due to its higher actuation force, users looking for a more substantial feel when bottoming out might gravitate toward it. Overall, if you're seeking a lighter touch for prolonged use, the WS Pearl is the preferable option, whereas those who favor a more robust feel may favor the Glory Yellow.
Travel distance
When comparing the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, there is a notable difference in travel distances. The Glory Yellow offers a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Pearl has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means the Glory Yellow provides a deeper and more traditional feel, which may be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial keypress. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the WS Pearl can cater to gamers seeking quicker response times, as it allows for less distance traveled during presses. Ultimately, if you prefer a deeper keystroke, the Glory Yellow is the choice for you, while the WS Pearl is better suited for those who favor immediate responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Yellow 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 Yellow 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 Yellow switches produce a satisfying and moderately muted sound profile that ensures a pleasant auditory experience without being overly distracting. This makes them well-suited for both office environments and home typing setups. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches exhibit a medium-high pitched sound signature, which can add a more distinct auditory layer to your typing experience. While both switches are designed for smooth keystrokes, the sound character will be influenced by factors such as the type of keyboard you pair them with and the keycap materials you choose.
When it comes to feel, the Glory Yellow switches are known for their smooth keystroke and pleasing travel distance, offering a substantive typing experience that users often enjoy for both gaming and general typing tasks. They provide a nice balance between performance and comfort. Contrastingly, the WS Pearl switches take the smoothness to an entirely new level by incorporating ball-bearings, which significantly reduce friction during keystrokes. This feature results in an exceptionally smooth action that some users may find to be almost surreal, giving them a unique edge in terms of feel.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron Glory Yellow and Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switches deliver smooth typing experiences, they each have distinct auditory and tactile qualities. The Glory Yellow offers a satisfying, moderately muted sound and a comfortable keystroke, making it a great choice for everyday use. Meanwhile, the WS Pearl stands out with its higher-pitched sound and ultra-smooth feel due to its ball-bearing design. Depending on your personal preferences and typing habits, either switch could allow you to achieve a delightful typing experience, with the potential for varying results based on your keyboard and keycap configuration.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, it's important to consider your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a smooth keystroke with a lighter touch, the Glory Yellow may be your best choice, as it’s designed to deliver an enjoyable and fluid experience, making it suitable for extended typing sessions where comfort is key. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more substantial feel and a well-defined tactile experience, the WS Pearl comes highly recommended due to its medium bottom-out force and unique ball-bearing design, which reduces friction and results in an exceptionally smooth keystroke. The WS Pearl’s medium-high pitch sound signature adds a distinct auditory experience that can enhance your typing environment. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a lighter, smoother touch with the Glory Yellow or a more tactile and satisfying feel from the WS Pearl.
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