Gateron Ink Yellow vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options worth considering are the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear. The Gateron Ink Yellow is a linear switch that stands out for its shorter travel, offering 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 desire a polished and satisfying typing feel. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches are also linear switches but are specifically designed to elevate your office and work experience. These switches feature innovative stem railings with discreet cutouts, effectively reducing switch noise while providing exceptional responsiveness and a satisfying bottom-out. Unlike traditional silent switches, the WS Silent Linear switches forgo silicone dampeners, resulting in a typing experience that lacks the usual cushioned sensation but offers a seamless blend of tranquility and precision. While these general pointers offer insight into each switch's characteristics, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Yellow and Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches differ in their housing materials. The Ink Yellow features a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, while the WS Silent Linear utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing.
In terms of sound profile, the INK blend top housing of the Ink Yellow produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, which is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the WS Silent Linear creates a deeper and fuller sound due to the relatively softer nature of the material, which absorbs more sound and results in a duller and rounder tone. Similarly, the bottom housing of the Ink Yellow and WS Silent Linear also contribute to the overall sound produced when pressing down on the switch, with the INK blend housing providing a thin and higher-pitched sound, while the nylon bottom housing enhances the depth and fullness of the sound.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the bottom housing is more influential. Pressing down on the Ink Yellow will yield the characteristics of its INK blend bottom housing, which is known for its satisfying, thin, and higher-pitched response. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and softer bottom-out feel. Conversely, the top housing of the switches primarily affects the sound when releasing a key.
While the Ink Yellow and WS Silent Linear differ in their housing materials, both switches provide distinctive sound and feel experiences. The Ink Yellow's INK blend housing offers a clacky sound and a thin, higher-pitched feel, whereas the WS Silent Linear's nylon housing brings a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, if you are seeking a switch with a softer, duller sound profile, both switches can deliver that experience with their respective nylon bottom housings. Ultimately, the housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and feel of each switch, providing users with different options to suit their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of actuation force, the Gateron Ink Yellow requires 60 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the exact value for the WS Silent Linear is unavailable. However, both switches can be considered medium-heavy in this aspect.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Gateron Ink Yellow has a measurement of 67 grams, slightly heavier than the WS Silent Linear, which requires 63.5 grams. This means that the Ink Yellow provides a slightly stronger push feel for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience.
Considering weight as a factor, some individuals may prefer lighter switches for extended periods of typing or gaming sessions, as it reduces fatigue. In this case, the lighter option would be the WS Silent Linear, as its actuation force and bottom out force are likely to be lower than the Gateron Ink Yellow. On the other hand, those who desire a more solid and forceful typing experience might lean towards the Gateron Ink Yellow, as its actuation and bottom out forces are higher.
Overall, while the actuation force of the WS Silent Linear switch is unspecified, the Gateron Ink Yellow is known to have a slightly higher actuation force and bottom out force. However, if one is seeking a lighter option, the WS Silent Linear may provide similar results, although the specific force values are unknown.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. Therefore, when pressing down on a key, you can expect similar results from both switches in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Yellow has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Yellow for $7.35.
The Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear comes in at $4.20 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch offers a neutral sound profile with a touch of clackiness. This means that the switch produces a moderate sound when pressed, which can be described as crisp and percussive. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch also offers a neutral sound profile, but with a more muted and subdued sound. This means that the switch produces a softer and quieter sound compared to a regular switch, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. So if you prefer a sharper and snappier sound, the Ink Yellow switch would be a better choice, while if you prefer a more muted and quieter sound, the WS Silent Linear switch would be more suitable.
In terms of feel, both the Ink Yellow and the WS Silent Linear switches offer a mild typing experience. This means that the switches provide a gentle and approachable feel when typing, without any pronounced characteristics. Additionally, the Ink Yellow switch is known for its polished finish, resulting in a sleek and smooth typing experience. This is due to the materials used and/or factory lubing, which reduce friction and provide smooth key travel. However, information on the feel of the WS Silent Linear switch is not available, so it is difficult to compare them in this aspect.
Overall, both the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches offer a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. This makes them suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or in the office. However, the Ink Yellow switch provides a clackier sound, while the WS Silent Linear switch offers a more muted and subdued sound. In terms of feel, both switches offer a mild typing experience, but the Ink Yellow switch has the added benefit of a polished finish for a smoother feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel. If you prefer a sharper and clackier sound with a polished feel, the Ink Yellow switch is recommended. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter and more subdued sound, the WS Silent Linear switch would be a better option.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a typing experience between that on a laptop and on a standard mechanical keyboard, with a pleasant smoothness and clackiness, then the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch is an excellent choice for you. With a bottom out force of 67 grams and a neutral and clacky sound profile, this switch is suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether you plan to use it at home or work. Additionally, the Ink Yellow offers a mild and polished feel, providing a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you want to elevate your office and work experience with a switch that delivers unparalleled responsiveness, a satisfying bottom-out, and reduced switch noise, then the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch is the perfect option for you. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams and a neutral, muted, and subdued sound profile, this switch minimizes the noise often associated with mechanical keyboards. Its mild feel ensures a comfortable typing experience that is approachable to most users.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch depends on your specific preferences. Consider whether you prioritize a shorter travel and a clacky sound (Ink Yellow) or reduced switch noise and a muted sound (WS Silent Linear). Additionally, take into account whether you prefer a polished feel (Ink Yellow) or a mild feel (WS Silent Linear). So, whether you prioritize a laptop-like typing experience or a blend of tranquility and precision, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different needs.
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