Gateron Melodic vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Melodic and Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear stand out as popular choices for different reasons. The Gateron Melodic offers a clicky typing experience that is both smooth and tactile, allowing users to enjoy the classic clicky sound without sacrificing on smoothness. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switches from Wuque prioritize reducing switch noise while providing a responsive and satisfying typing experience, without the usual cushioned sensation that comes from silicone dampeners. While the Melodic switch is described as 'buttery', 'resonant', 'invigorating', and 'crunchy', the WS Silent Linear is labeled as 'neutral', 'mild', 'muted', and 'subdued'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and environments. 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
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Melodic and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on either switch, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound and create a duller and rounder sound. However, the Melodic features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. This contrast in top housing materials gives each switch a distinct sound signature when typing.
Furthermore, the use of polycarbonate in the Melodic's top housing is aesthetically advantageous for users looking to implement RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for light to shine through the housing. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the WS Silent Linear provides a more traditional look and feel. While both switches offer a unique typing experience with their nylon bottom housings, the choice of top housing material adds another dimension to the overall sound and tactile feedback of the switches.
Overall, the Gateron Melodic and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear showcase how different housing materials can impact the acoustics and feel of mechanical switches. While both switches share a common nylon bottom housing for a deeper sound profile, the Melodic's polycarbonate top housing emphasizes a sharper and crisper sound, while the WS Silent Linear's nylon top housing offers a rounder sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, there are some key differences to consider. The Melodic has a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight switch, while the WS Silent Linear has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, putting it in the medium-heavy category. Both switches have an unknown actuation force, but it can be assumed that they are similar given their comparable bottom out forces. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Melodic switch, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may prefer the WS Silent Linear switch for its slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, we can see that the Melodic has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Silent Linear has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Melodic switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear provides a shorter travel distance that can result in faster response times, making it popular among gamers seeking quick input recognition. Both options offer advantages depending on individual preferences, with the Melodic switch providing a bit more depth and the WS Silent Linear offering a quicker keystroke experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Silent Linear comes in at $4.20 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 typing experience, characterized by a higher-pitched and immersive sound profile with clean and sharp tones reminiscent of stepping on crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch provides a neutral, muted, and subdued typing sound, offering a more moderate and dampened auditory experience that minimizes typical mechanical keyboard noise. The choice between the two switches ultimately depends on your preference for a more classic, clicky sound with Gateron Melodic or a tranquil, quiet typing experience with WS Silent Linear.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch is known for its buttery and invigorating typing sensation, providing a smooth, fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a reactive feel that enhances the overall typing experience. Conversely, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch offers a mild typing experience, characterized by a gentle feel that falls in a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users. Whether you prefer a more invigorating and pronounced tactile feedback or a milder and gentler typing sensation, both switches offer unique qualities to enhance your typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Melodic provides a classic clicky sound and invigorating tactile feedback, the WS Silent Linear delivers a quiet typing experience with a mild and gentle feel. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, so choosing between them would ultimately depend on whether you prefer a more traditional and immersive typing experience or a tranquil and muted typing sensation. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer quality and innovation that will enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, you should choose the Melodic if you prefer a clicky switch with a medium bottom out force that provides a resonant and crunchy sound profile, along with a buttery and invigorating typing feel. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy a classic and tactile typing experience with audible feedback. On the other hand, you should opt for the WS Silent Linear if you prefer a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force that offers a neutral, muted, or subdued sound profile, along with a mild typing feel. This switch is ideal for those seeking a quieter and more tranquil typing experience without sacrificing responsiveness and precision. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
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