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Huano Grape Orange vs. Wuque Studio WS Red

An in-depth look at the Huano Grape Orange and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Grape Orange and the Wuque Studio WS Red stand out as compelling options for typists and gamers alike, despite both being categorized as linear switches. The Grape Orange is celebrated for its incredibly light 40g actuation force, offering an effortless typing experience that makes it an ideal choice for those who engage in long typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the WS Red features a bouncy 22mm double-stage spring that provides a more substantial feel with a heavier actuation force, adding a satisfying tactile weight to each keystroke. This combination of responsiveness and a classic sound signature makes the WS Red appealing for users who prefer a slightly more pronounced feedback with their typing. Both switches cater to different preferences; while the Grape Orange prioritizes ease and speed, the WS Red emphasizes a balanced, engaging typing 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

40g

Actuation force

N/A

Bottom-out force

50g

Bottom-out force

67g

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Total travel

3.60 mm

Total travel

3.80 mm

Factory lubed

Yes

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

22mm single-stage spring

Spring

22mm double-stage spring

Housing materials

When we compare the housing materials of the Huano Grape Orange and the Wuque Studio WS Red, we note a significant distinction in the materials used for the top housings. The Grape Orange features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffer properties. This translucency not only enhances the acoustic quality but also allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects, making it a visually appealing choice for gamers and enthusiasts alike. In contrast, the WS Red utilizes a nylon top housing, which is softer and thus absorbs more sound, producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This fundamental difference in top housing material means that the auditory experiences when pressing down on these switches will vary significantly, impacting the overall typing satisfaction.

Interestingly, both the Grape Orange and WS Red switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This shared material plays a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the switches. Nylon's softer composition contributes to a duller and rounder sound profile, which is characteristic of the deeper acoustics associated with both switches. Though the two switches may produce different upper sound signatures due to their distinct top housing materials, the similar nylon bottom housing ensures that users experience a consistent depth and fullness in sound when they bottom out the keys. Thus, while the top housings create different auditory experiences when releasing the key, the bottom housings harmonize the overall performance.

Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Grape Orange and the dual nylon structure in the WS Red highlight the contrasting acoustic properties of these switches. While the Grape Orange aims for a brighter, more resonant sound profile through its polycarbonate top, the WS Red promotes a richer, warmer sound due to its entirely nylon construction. This showcases a purposeful design choice by each manufacturer, catering to the preferences of different users. For those seeking a sharper response, the Grape Orange will deliver that distinct auditory feedback, whereas the WS Red will appeal to those who enjoy a softer, more cushioned typing experience. The interplay of these materials ultimately shapes the character of the switches, allowing for a personalized typing experience tailored to user preferences.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Grape Orange features a light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a good choice for those who favor extended typing sessions without much fatigue. In contrast, the WS Red switch lacks specified actuation force data but has a significantly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This will appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel during typing or gaming. Consequently, while the Grape Orange is the lighter option overall, the WS Red provides a stronger resistance, leading to a distinctly different typing experience. The difference in actuation force implies that those who prioritize lighter switches for comfort over long durations would lean towards the Grape Orange, whereas those seeking a firmer keystroke would opt for the WS Red.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, the Grape Orange features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Grape Orange is the shorter option, offering a quicker response time which is often favored by gamers seeking rapid key presses for optimal performance. In contrast, the WS Red, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial feel, appealing to users who prefer a deeper, more traditional typing experience. Therefore, those looking for a more responsive switch may lean towards the Grape Orange, while those who enjoy a robust sensation with their key presses might prefer the WS Red.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

The Huano Grape Orange has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Grape Orange for $2.79.

The Wuque Studio WS Red 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

The Huano Grape Orange linear switch is characterized by a relatively quiet sound profile, making it an excellent choice for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. Although the specific sound signature isn't provided, the general expectation is that it produces a muted, soft noise upon actuation. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Red switch maintains a similar quietness while also delivering a more pronounced sound signature due to its unique material blend. Ultimately, both switches can offer a subdued auditory experience, though individual perceptions may vary based on the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the Grape Orange switch shines with its exceptionally light actuation force of just 40g, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. This makes it ideal for intensive typing sessions, as it minimizes finger fatigue. Conversely, the WS Red switch features a heavier actuation force along with a 22mm double-stage spring, contributing to a bouncy and more tactile response. While users may find the Grape Orange more suitable for rapid typing, the WS Red offers a rewarding sense of weight and substance with each keystroke.

In conclusion, both the Huano Grape Orange and Wuque Studio WS Red linear switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Grape Orange emphasizes lightness and a quieter profile, ideal for prolonged use, while the WS Red adds more heft with its spring design but still remains relatively quiet. Each switch has its own unique qualities, allowing enthusiasts to choose one based on their typing style. Overall, the experience of using either switch can lead to satisfaction in performance, but it's essential to weigh these characteristics against your personal preferences to find the right fit for your mechanical keyboard.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the Huano Grape Orange and Wuque Studio WS Red linear switches, your personal preferences and typing style play a crucial role. If you prioritize a light and responsive typing experience, especially for long typing sessions, the Grape Orange switches are an ideal choice. Their ultra-low actuation force of 40 grams makes them easy to press, reducing finger fatigue and allowing for swift typing. Moreover, their design caters well to casual typists or gamers seeking quick and effortless keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile and satisfying feedback with a bit of weight, the WS Red switches may suit you better. With a thicker bottom-out force of 67 grams and a bouncy feel thanks to the double-stage spring, these switches provide a more pronounced typing experience, perfect for those who enjoy a sturdier keystroke while still retaining a familiar sound signature. Consider what you value more in your keyboard experience: the lightweight, quick response of the Grape Orange or the sturdy, responsive feedback of the WS Red. Your typing style will guide your choice between these two excellent switches.

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