Gateron Melodic vs. Wuque Studio WS Dash
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Melodic and the Wuque Studio WS Dash stand out for their unique characteristics and distinct experiences they offer. The Gateron Melodic, a clicky switch, revitalizes the traditional clicky typing experience with its buttery, resonant sound and invigorating tactile feedback, further enhanced by innovations like smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems. This switch appeals to users who desire the classic nostalgic click with improved smoothness, making it an excellent choice for both typing and gaming. On the other hand, the WS Dash Hall Effect switch excels in delivering a bright, clacky sound signature alongside an exceptionally silky keystroke thanks to its advanced magnetic technology. This switch is particularly suited for enthusiasts looking for a refined, modern change from conventional mechanical switches. Both options present compelling reasons for selection based on user preference, whether it be a love for the satisfying click or the allure of cutting-edge technology. 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
N/A
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Melodic and the Wuque Studio WS Dash utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which leads to striking similarities in their sound profiles. The polycarbonate material is known for its stiffness, allowing for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory quality. This shared characteristic means that users will likely experience a bright and clear sound when pressing these switches, especially in setups that utilize RGB lighting due to polycarbonate’s translucency. This use of a transparent material fosters an eye-catching aesthetic while enhancing the perception of sound clarity when keys are released.
In contrast, both switches feature nylon for their bottom housings, which contributes to a more rounded and deeper sound profile when pressed. The softer properties of nylon allow it to absorb sound better than harder materials, creating a fuller auditory experience that contrasts with the brightness of the polycarbonate top. As a result, while both the Melodic and WS Dash share the same fundamental materials in their housing compositions, the combination of the softer nylon bottom and the stiffer polycarbonate top allows for a unique sound signature that blends high-pitched clarity with rich, resonant depth.
Understanding how each housing material affects the typing experience helps elucidate the properties of these switches. The nylon bottom housing contributes significantly to how the key feels when bottomed out, enhancing a rounded sound that complements the sharper response of the polycarbonate top. Therefore, both switches leverage the strengths of their respective materials to produce a balanced auditory experience—delivering clarity from the top and warmth from the bottom. Users can expect a similar overall typing experience from both switches, highlighted by the interplay of contrasting materials that enrich the sound profile during use.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Melodic switch has an unspecified actuation force, but its bottom out force is 60 grams, indicating a medium resistance. In contrast, the WS Dash features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams and a slightly lower bottom out force of 55 grams, which categorizes it as medium-light. This means that the WS Dash is easier to press down initially, making it more suitable for prolonged typing sessions or gaming marathons where fatigue may be a concern. However, users seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Melodic switch due to its heavier bottom out force. Overall, those who appreciate lighter switches will find the WS Dash more accommodating, while those favoring a stronger push feel might gravitate towards the Melodic switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, there is a notable difference: the Melodic has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Dash measures 3.5 mm. This means that if you prioritize a more pronounced tactile feedback with a greater depth, the Melodic's longer distance may appeal to you. On the other hand, if you're looking for quicker response times and a more responsive feel, the shorter travel distance of the WS Dash may be more suitable. For gamers, the 3.5 mm travel of the WS Dash can provide a faster actuation, making it an attractive option. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prefer the sturdy depth of the Melodic or the quicker engagement of the WS Dash.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
The Wuque Studio WS Dash has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Dash for $7.49.
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 Melodic clicky switch offers a bright and resonant auditory experience, characterized by a clean and sharp pitch. The Melodic’s clicky nature adds a delightful crunchiness to the sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. This makes it an ideal choice for users who prioritize an engaging acoustic experience while typing. In contrast, the WS Dash Hall Effect switch, while known for its bright and clacky sound signature, does not have a specific description in terms of sound qualities available for direct comparison. However, the reported clackiness suggests it might also produce an entertaining auditory experience, albeit distinct from the defined resonance and crunchiness of the Melodic.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Melodic excels with its buttery smooth keystrokes and invigorating feedback. The buttery aspect ensures a seamless typing experience that flows freely, while the invigorating feel provides pronounced tactile feedback and a snappy response upon actuation. This feature not only enhances typing precision but also contributes to an immersive experience. The WS Dash switches lack specific descriptive qualities about their feel, rendering a direct comparison challenging. However, given the nature of Hall Effect switches, they often offer a smooth keystroke that can also provide satisfying feedback, potentially aligning them with the Melodic in terms of an enjoyable typing sensation.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Melodic and Wuque Studio WS Dash switches have their unique sound and feel characteristics tailored to different preferences. The Melodic's clear resonant and crunchy sound, paired with its buttery and invigorating feel, makes it a compelling option for traditional clicky switch enthusiasts looking for a classic typing experience. On the other hand, while the WS Dash offers a bright and clacky sound, its feel qualities are not explicitly defined, leaving an element of mystery. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference; if you value traditional clickiness and tactile feedback, the Melodic may be the better fit, but the WS Dash might intrigue those seeking cutting-edge technology and a smooth typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, it’s essential to consider your typing preferences and the environments in which you’ll be using them. If you enjoy a classic clicky typing experience characterized by a resonant and crunchy sound, along with an invigorating tactile feedback, the Melodic switch is an excellent choice for you. Its 60-gram actuation force offers a satisfying resistance, appealing to those who appreciate a slightly firmer feel as they type. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, quieter experience with a more refined and clacky sound signature, the WS Dash switch would be better suited for your needs. With its medium-light 55-gram actuation force, it provides a buttery smooth keystroke ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions where comfort and efficiency are paramount. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize the classic clicky feedback or the modern refinement of hall effect technology in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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