Gateron Melodic vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering which mechanical keyboard switch to choose, two popular options that come to mind are the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch. The Gateron Melodic is praised for its crisp clicky sound and tactile feedback, thanks to advancements such as smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion offers a smooth and satisfying keystroke feel with a neutral sound profile, featuring a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing for added durability. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and benefits, from the invigorating and crunchy feel of the Melodic to the buttery and polished experience of the WS Onion. 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
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
Stainless steel
Spring
WS CL635 Gold Plated Stainless Spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Melodic and the Wuque Studio WS Onion both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. Polycarbonate's stiffness results in a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a switch with a distinctive auditory experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it perfect for switches with RGB lighting, adding a visually pleasing element to the typing experience.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Melodic and WS Onion feature nylon materials. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. Its softer nature allows for better sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This creates a more muted and satisfying typing experience, making switches with nylon bottom housings popular among users looking for a quieter and more tactile switch option.
Overall, while the Gateron Melodic and the Wuque Studio WS Onion share similarities in their housing materials, such as polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings, they also offer unique qualities. The split between top and bottom housings allows for a combination of different sound profiles, impacting both the downstroke and upstroke of each keystroke. Whether you prefer the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper, fuller sound of nylon, both switches offer a distinct typing experience that caters to different preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, we see that the Melodic has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the WS Onion has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams. Both switches have an unknown actuation force, but they fall within the medium to medium-heavy range in terms of bottom out force. The Melodic may provide a slightly lighter typing experience compared to the WS Onion, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the WS Onion offers a slightly heavier push feel, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. When comparing and contrasting these two switches, it is evident that users will experience a similar key press feeling in terms of travel distance. Both switches offer a consistent typing experience with a travel distance that is neither too short nor too long. This ensures that users will get similar results in terms of key press feedback and typing comfort when using either the Gateron Melodic clicky switch or the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch.
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 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.
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 switch offers a resonant and crunchy experience, with a higher-pitched sound profile that immerses users in a clean and sharp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion switch provides a neutral sound profile, suitable for various typing environments and preferences. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring users can enjoy a satisfying typing experience based on their sound preferences.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron Melodic and the WS Onion switches are described as providing a buttery typing experience. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation that enhances the overall typing experience. The Melodic switch is further praised for its invigorating feedback and reactive feel, while the WS Onion switch is noted for its polished finish that reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel. Both switches offer a seamless and effortless typing sensation, ensuring users can enjoy a comfortable and responsive typing experience with either choice.
Overall, while the Gateron Melodic and Wuque Studio WS Onion switches offer different sound profiles, they both deliver a buttery typing experience that is smooth and responsive. Depending on whether users prefer a more resonant and crunchy sound or a neutral and versatile sound profile, they can choose between the Melodic and Onion switches to enhance their typing experience. Ultimately, users can expect similar results in terms of feel, ensuring a high-quality typing experience regardless of their switch preference.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Melodic clicky switch or the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, you should take into account your preference for bottom-out force. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force, the Melodic with 60 grams may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force, the WS Onion with 63.5 grams could be a better fit. Additionally, if you enjoy a higher-pitched and immersive sound profile, the Melodic's resonant and crunchy options may appeal to you. However, if you prefer a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force, the WS Onion's neutral description might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and bottom-out force.
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