Gateron Melodic vs. Wuque Studio WS Jade
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Melodic and the Wuque Studio WS Jade stand out as top contenders in their respective clicky and linear categories. The Gateron Melodic offers a satisfying clicky sound and tactile feedback, thanks to features like smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a crunchy and invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Jade from Wuque Studio provides a smooth and creamy linear typing experience with a bright metallic sound profile and a unique RGB display, appealing to those who prefer a clacky and resonant switch. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Melodic and the Wuque Studio WS Jade, one key difference lies in the top housing. The Melodic features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the WS Jade utilizes a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials offer their own unique sound characteristics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Melodic may be preferred for those looking for a more vibrant and resonant typing experience, especially when paired with RGB lighting.
Another point of comparison is the bottom housing of these switches. The Melodic comes equipped with a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature. Similarly, the WS Jade features a POM bottom housing, resulting in a pleasing and unique sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. Both materials absorb sound differently, with nylon providing a duller and rounder sound compared to the POM's more muted sound. This distinction in bottom housing materials may influence the overall typing experience and sound produced by each switch.
While the housing materials of the Gateron Melodic and the Wuque Studio WS Jade differ in terms of top and bottom housing, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The split qualities of the top and bottom housing materials ensure that users can experience a variety of sound tones when typing on these switches. Whether you prefer the sharpness of polycarbonate in the top housing or the deeper sound of POM, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their distinct housing materials. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal sound preferences and typing style.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, the actuation force for the Melodic is listed as None grams, while the WS Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams. The bottom out force for both switches is 60 grams, making them equal in that aspect. The Melodic provides a lighter actuation force, which could be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the WS Jade offers a slightly heavier actuation force, which may appeal to those seeking a more substantial typing experience. Despite the slight difference in actuation force, both switches share the same bottom out force, ensuring a similar overall typing experience in terms of force required for full keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation force and desired typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Melodic clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it slightly longer than the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In terms of travel distance, the WS Jade offers a shorter distance compared to the Melodic. However, both switches fall in the range of traditional travel distances, with the Melodic being on the longer side and the WS Jade being slightly shorter. Gamers may prefer the WS Jade for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more tactile feel may opt for the Melodic with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress feel and responsiveness.
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 Jade comes in at $4.30 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, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offers a resonant and crunchy experience, with a clean and sharp sound profile reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch provides a clacky and marbly sound, characterized by a sharp, snappy sound when pressed and a resonant, high-pitched profile akin to tapping on marble or billiard balls colliding. Both switches have resonant qualities, but the Melodic is more crunchy while the WS Jade offers a combination of clacky and marbly sounds.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Melodic is described as buttery and invigorating, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and reactive feel. Conversely, the Wuque Studio WS Jade offers a silky and creamy typing sensation, characterized by exceptionally smooth key presses and a buttery feel that enhances overall typing smoothness. Both switches provide a smooth typing experience, with the Melodic feeling more invigorating while the WS Jade offers a silky and creamy touch.
In conclusion, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch offer different sound and feel experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Melodic provides a resonant and crunchy sound paired with a buttery and invigorating feel, making it ideal for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Jade offers a clacky and marbly sound with a silky and creamy feel, catering to users looking for a smooth and responsive typing sensation. Ultimately, both switches promise a unique typing experience based on individual preferences and typing style, so choosing between them will depend on personal sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a resonant and crunchy sound with a buttery and invigorating feel, the Melodic may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clacky and marbly sound with a silky and creamy feel, the WS Jade could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for.
Mentioned in this article
