Gateron Ink Yellow vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Wuque Studio WS Onion both offer compelling options. The Gateron Ink Yellow is a linear switch known for its shorter travel, giving users a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. With its pleasant smoothness and clackiness, this switch is perfect for those who enjoy a tactile but not overly noisy experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion stands out with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, offering a buttery smooth keystroke feel that is deeply satisfying. Not only that, but these exquisite switches provide a crisp, responsive feel and a neutral sound profile. Both switches deliver an exceptional typing experience, showcasing characteristics such as neutrality and a polished finish. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences perfectly.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Yellow Linear

Wuque Studio WS Onion Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

$7.00

$5.53 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Wuque Studio WS Onion, one notable difference is the top housing material. The Ink Yellow utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. This blend is described as not overly sharp, creating a satisfying thin and clacky sound. On the other hand, the WS Onion's top housing is made of polycarbonate, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate housing is translucent, making it suitable for use with RGB lighting. These differences in top housing materials yield distinct sound characteristics for each switch.

Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Ink Yellow and WS Onion differ in their materials. The Ink Yellow's bottom housing shares the same proprietary INK blend as the top housing, contributing to a similar pointed and high-pitched sound profile. In contrast, the WS Onion's bottom housing is made of nylon, a classic switch housing material. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, there is a noticeable contrast in sound between the two switches when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel.

Considering the impact of each housing material on the overall sound experience of the switches, it is important to note that the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when a key is released, while the bottom housing affects the sound and feel when a key is pressed down. This means that the differences in top housing materials between the Ink Yellow and WS Onion will primarily affect the sound when releasing a key. On the other hand, the variations in bottom housing materials will affect the sound and feel when pressing down on the switches. Therefore, while there are differences in each switch's housing materials, the extent to which they impact the overall sound profile may vary depending on the specific action being performed.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Gateron Ink Yellow has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy. On the other hand, the actuation force for the WS Onion is unavailable, but it has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, also falling into the medium-heavy range.

Considering weight, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. The Gateron Ink Yellow, with its lighter actuation force, could be a good option for those seeking a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, some individuals prefer a more substantial push feel and may opt for switches with heavier forces. In this case, both switches fall within the medium-heavy range, so users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of force required.

In summary, the Gateron Ink Yellow has a known actuation force and bottom out force, while the WS Onion only has a known bottom out force. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, making them suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. However, for those who prefer a lighter switch, the Gateron Ink Yellow may be the preferred choice.

Travel distance

The Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch have different travel distances. The Ink Yellow has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the WS Onion has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the WS Onion is longer than the Ink Yellow. A travel distance of 4 mm is closer to the most traditional travel distance of 4.0 mm, whereas 3.5 mm is slightly shallower.

The choice between these two switches ultimately depends on individual preference. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Ink Yellow's shorter travel distance. This can allow for quicker keystrokes and potentially enhance their gaming performance. On the other hand, for those who prefer a more substantial keystroke experience, the 4 mm travel distance of the WS Onion may be more satisfying. The longer travel distance provides a deeper sensation when pressing down on the keys.

It is important to note that while these switches have different travel distances, they both offer a linear feel, meaning they provide a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile bump. Therefore, regardless of the travel distance, users can expect similar linear switch characteristics from both the Ink Yellow and WS Onion, such as a lack of tactile feedback and a smooth typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, both the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches have a neutral sound profile. This means that they produce a moderate level of sound, making them suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you intend to use them at home or work. However, the Ink Yellow switch is also described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, while the WS Onion switch does not have this characteristic. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

Moving on to the feel, the Ink Yellow switch offers a mild typing experience. It falls in a safe, middle-ground zone, providing a more gentle typing sensation compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The switch's polished finish adds to the smooth and refined feel, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the WS Onion switch is also described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that provides a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The switch's buttery feel implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, offering a uniform typing sensation.

Considering all the available information, both the Gateron Ink Yellow and Wuque Studio WS Onion switches offer a pleasant and smooth typing experience. They have similar qualities in terms of a neutral sound profile and a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. However, the Ink Yellow switch stands out with its clacky sound characteristic, providing a crisp, bright, and percussive sound when pressed. If you are looking for a typing experience between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard, the Ink Yellow would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth keystroke feel and a more neutral sound profile, the WS Onion switch would be a great option. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and the specific typing experience you desire.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a shorter travel distance and a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch would be a great choice. It offers a pleasant smoothness and clackiness that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize a buttery smooth keystroke feel and a crisp, responsive feel, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch is the way to go. Its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing contribute to its exquisite feel. In terms of sound, both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes. However, if you prefer a sharper and snappier sound when typing, the Ink Yellow's clacky characteristic may suit your preferences. In terms of feel, both switches have a polished finish for a smooth and refined typing experience. However, if you desire a truly buttery and fluid keystroke experience, the WS Onion switch stands out. Ultimately, the choice between Gateron Ink Yellow and Wuque Studio WS Onion switches will depend on your preference for travel distance, sound profile, and feel.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Yellow Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more

Wuque Studio WS Onion Linear

$7.00

$5.53 per 10

Learn more