Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Wuque Studio WS Onion both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Jupiter Red is known for its smooth and uninterrupted keystrokes, medium-heavy actuation, and high-precision molds, making it a top choice for those seeking a seamless typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Onion stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, nylon bottom housing, buttery smooth keystroke feel, crisp responsiveness, and neutral sound profile. While the Jupiter Red is described as polished, creamy, silky, mild, and neutral, the WS Onion is categorized as neutral, buttery, and polished. Each switch has its strengths and characteristics that appeal to different users. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Partial box
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
WS CL635 Gold Plated Stainless Spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Wuque Studio WS Onion, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects, making it an ideal choice for those looking to add visual flair to their keyboard setup. Both switches share this common feature which results in a similar auditory and aesthetic experience.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Jupiter Red utilizes nylon, while the WS Onion also opts for nylon. Nylon is known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches results in a duller and rounder sound upon actuation. This similarity in bottom housing material means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either the Jupiter Red or the WS Onion.
It's important to note that the qualities of the housing materials are distributed differently between the top and bottom housings of the switches. While the bottom housing material has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is fully pressed, the top housing material influences the sound when the key is released. This means that despite the shared feature of polycarbonate top housings, the overall typing experience may still vary slightly between the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Wuque Studio WS Onion due to the differences in their bottom housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, it is evident that they both fall within the medium to medium-heavy range in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Jupiter Red requires an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the WS Onion's actuation force is unknown but has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. In terms of weight, the Jupiter Red is lighter with a lower bottom out force compared to the WS Onion. Those who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing sessions or gaming may lean towards the Jupiter Red, while the WS Onion would be more suitable for individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel. Both switches offer a reliable typing experience, with the slight difference in weight catering to the preferences of different users.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch is identical, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, users will experience the same level of travel distance. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches ensures that users can expect consistent feedback and actuation when typing or gaming. Overall, the travel distance of both switches provides a smooth and responsive typing experience for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Wuque Studio WS Onion has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Onion for $5.53.
The Gateron Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80 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, both the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, meaning they offer a moderate sound level suitable for various environments and users. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used, so the overall sound experience may vary slightly between the two switches.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Jupiter Red switch is commonly associated with a polished, creamy, silky, and mild typing experience. These descriptors point to a smooth and refined key press with reduced friction and a gentle feel suitable for many users. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion switch is described as offering a buttery and polished typing sensation, emphasizing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and effortless.
Taking all the available information into consideration, it is evident that both the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switches provide a high-quality typing experience. While the Jupiter Red switch is known for its medium-heavy actuation and softer backlight effects, the WS Onion switch offers a buttery smooth keystroke feel with a crisp and responsive touch. Ultimately, choosing between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, but rest assured that both options will deliver a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch or the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, you should opt for the Jupiter Red if you value a seamless, consistent typing experience with medium-heavy actuation and softer backlight effects. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth keystroke feel with a crisp, responsive touch and neutral sound profile, the WS Onion may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your specific preferences for typing feel and sound, as both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your overall typing experience.
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