Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options worth considering are the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch. The Jupiter Red is praised for its smooth and uninterrupted keystrokes, thanks to its single-stage spring and medium-heavy actuation. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile offers a snappy tactile bump for a more perceptible typing experience, while maintaining smoothness and a neutral sound signature. The Jupiter Red is ideal for those who prefer a consistent typing experience, while the WS Light Tactile is favored for its tactile feedback and easy-to-press keys. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Jupiter Red and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switches. However, the differences lie in the bottom housings, with the Jupiter Red using nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the WS Light Tactile also utilizes nylon but with a softer plastic that absorbs more sound for a duller and rounder sound.
Despite both switches using polycarbonate for their top housings, the distinct qualities of the bottom nylon housings provide different typing experiences. The Jupiter Red offers a more impactful bottom-out sound and feel due to the stiffer nylon material, while the WS Light Tactile provides a smoother and quieter typing experience with its softer nylon bottom housing. This difference in bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches, showcasing how housing materials play a crucial role in switch performance and user experience.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile share the use of polycarbonate for their top housings, the choice of nylon for the bottom housings sets them apart in terms of sound and feel. The Jupiter Red offers a sharper and fuller sound profile with its nylon bottom housing, while the WS Light Tactile provides a quieter and softer typing experience with its nylon bottom housing. Understanding how housing materials affect typing sound and feel is essential for users looking to customize their mechanical keyboards to suit their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch to the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, it is clear that the actuation force is the same at 45 grams. However, the bottom out force differs between the two. The Jupiter Red requires a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, while the WS Light Tactile switch only needs 50 grams, making it lighter. This means that the Jupiter Red provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, ideal for those who prefer a bit more resistance. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch offers a lighter bottom out force, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, with the Jupiter Red being on the heavier side and the WS Light Tactile being lighter, catering to different preferences.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity in travel distance may result in similar typing experiences for users of both switches, providing consistent tactile feedback and keypress depth. Overall, the travel distance of 4 mm for both switches ensures a standard typing experience with no significant differences in keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile comes in at $4.20.
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, both the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they both offer a moderate sound level that is suitable for most purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them in a home or work setting. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Jupiter Red is described as offering a polished, creamy, silky, or mild typing experience. These descriptors indicate that the switch provides a smooth and refined typing feel with reduced friction, making for a sleek and comfortable experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch is described as stepped and easy-to-press. This means that the tactile bump in these switches is more subtle, offering a gentle resistance during key presses and making typing effortless and comfortable, ultimately reducing finger fatigue during extended use.
Overall, while the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches offer different typing experiences in terms of feel, both switches provide a neutral sound profile suitable for a variety of users and environments. If you prefer a linear switch with a smooth and refined feel, the Jupiter Red may be the better choice. However, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a subtle tactile bump and easy-to-press keys, the WS Light Tactile may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches are solid options depending on your personal typing preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, consider your preference for actuation force and typing experience. If you prefer a medium actuation force and a smooth, consistent typing experience with softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Red may be the optimal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force, a snappy tactile bump, and a neutral sound signature, the WS Light Tactile switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer different typing experiences, so it is essential to consider your own preferences and typing style when making a decision.
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