TTC Gold Silver vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to the realm of mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Silver and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl stand out as two excellent linear options, each boasting unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The TTC Gold Silver is renowned for its rapid responsiveness and precision, featuring a shortened travel distance that results in a decisive bottom-out with each keystroke, delivering a satisfying tactile closure. Its mild, low-pitched sound signature adds to the experience, making it a fantastic choice for those who prioritize speed and fluidity in their typing. On the other hand, the WS Pearl distinguishes itself with its innovative use of ball-bearings, which work to minimize friction and enhance the smoothness of every keystroke. This results in a typing experience that feels almost effortless, alongside a medium-high pitched sound profile that appeals to users who enjoy a bit of auditory feedback as they type. While both switches offer notable qualities, choosing between them ultimately hinges on personal preference for tactile feedback and typing feel. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
NPI
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
16mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Silver and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl, a distinct contrast emerges in the materials used for each switch's top housing. The Gold Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and translucency. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, making it particularly ideal for those who prefer a crisper auditory feedback when typing. Furthermore, polycarbonate’s clarity allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, which can create a visually appealing aesthetic for keyboard enthusiasts. In contrast, the WS Pearl employs a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer properties. This results in a rounder auditory feedback, making it suitable for users seeking a warmer typing experience.
However, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing material, which is nylon for both models. This similarity means that, regardless of the top housing's contrasting characteristics, users will experience a rich, deep sound when bottoming out the keys. Since nylon absorbs more sound due to its softer plastic composition, this material plays a crucial role in dampening high-pitched noises and cultivating a more rounded sound profile across both models. Thus, while the top housings yield different auditory outputs, the presence of nylon in the bottom housing will ensure that a fuller sound is delivered, leading to consistent auditory experiences when pressing the keys down.
Ultimately, the interplay between the top and bottom housings in both the TTC Gold Silver and Wuque Studio WS Pearl illustrates how different materials can each contribute to a switch’s overall sound profile. The Gold Silver's polycarbonate top creates a sharp sound when a key is released, whereas the WS Pearl's nylon top fosters a warmer and duller release noise. However, the nylon bottom in both switches ensures that the bottoming-out experience remains rich and full, irrespective of the top material differences. This makes it feasible for users to find a preferred auditory experience based on their specific typing style and aesthetic choices while benefiting from the warmth provided by the nylon bottom housing in both models.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, notable differences arise in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold Silver switch features an actuation force of 45 grams, while the WS Pearl has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams. This means that the WS Pearl may be preferable for users seeking a lighter touch, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Gold Silver's heavier actuation force provides a more substantial typing feel, which might appeal to those who prefer a stronger push. Regarding bottom out forces, specific information for the Gold Silver is unavailable, whereas the WS Pearl has a bottom out force of 58 grams, indicating a moderate resistance when the key is fully pressed down. Therefore, the Gold Silver is the heavier option due to its greater actuation force, while the WS Pearl is lighter, providing a potentially more effortless typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.5 mm, resulting in a similar pressing experience for users. Because both switches have the same travel distance, you can expect a comparable feel and responsiveness when pressing down on the keys. This uniformity in distance contributes to a consistent performance across both switch types, allowing enthusiasts to choose between them based on other factors like feel and actuation rather than travel distance alone.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Silver has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Silver for $2.90.
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 TTC Gold Silver switch presents a low-pitched, thocky profile that delivers a satisfying and substantial auditory feedback with each keystroke. This sound combines a rich and deep tone that resonates well, providing not only a tactile response but also an enjoyable acoustic experience that can enhance typing satisfaction. On the other hand, the specifics of the WS Pearl's sound profile remain unknown; however, a medium-high pitched sound can be expected based on its design, which features ball-bearings intended to reduce friction. While the Gold Silver may be favored for its deeper tones, the Pearl's higher pitch could appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced click without the rich thump.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Silver excels with its polished and silky texture, creating a smooth and refined typing experience. The mild resistance makes it accessible for various types of users—from beginners to advanced typists—ensuring a comfortable interaction. In contrast, the feel of the WS Pearl isn't detailed, but its unique ball-bearing mechanism suggests an exceptionally smooth travel, potentially making it a dream for those who value frictionless keystrokes. However, without specific descriptors, the exact tactile feedback remains an element of curiosity for prospective users.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Silver and the WS Pearl switches offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboards. The Gold Silver’s thocky sound and silky feel position it as a robust option for users seeking a solid and satisfying keystroke. While the WS Pearl promises an ultra-smooth experience courtesy of its unique design, the lack of detailed feedback on its sound and feel leaves some elements to the imagination. Ultimately, those looking for precision in a linear switch will find either of them a worthy choice, though the characteristics may lead to varied typing experiences.
Conclusion
To conclude, the decision between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch ultimately hinges on your specific preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a rapid response and a smooth, seamless keystroke experience, the TTC Gold Silver is likely your best choice. Its low-bottom-out force allows for swift actuation, making it ideal for gaming or typing where speed is crucial, while the thocky, low-pitched sound adds a satisfying auditory element to each press. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile sensation with a noticeable resistance and a unique, friction-reducing design, the WS Pearl is well-suited for you. Its medium-bottom-out force ensures a balanced feel, and the incorporation of ball bearings offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience, making it ideal for long typing sessions or a more pronounced typing experience. In essence, consider your typing style and environment: if you seek speed and auditory feedback, lean towards the TTC Gold Silver; if you desire smoothness and a balanced feel, the WS Pearl should be your go-to switch.
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