Gateron Mini i vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between keyboard switches, the Gateron Mini i and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl present two distinct options that cater to different typing preferences. The Gateron Mini i is a tactile switch that excels in office environments, providing a gentle tactile feedback with each keystroke while maintaining a muted sound profile. This makes it an excellent choice for those who require a comfortable typing experience during long hours of work without causing disruptions. Conversely, the WS Pearl offers a completely different feel as a linear switch, employing innovative ball-bearing technology for a smooth typing experience that feels almost effortless. With a medium-high pitched sound, it caters to users who enjoy a satisfying yet unobtrusive keystroke. Both switches have their unique advantages—whether you prefer the tactile feedback of the Mini i for its subtlety or the silky smoothness of the WS Pearl for an uninterrupted flow. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
16mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Mini i and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl both employ nylon as their housing material for both the top and bottom sections of the switch. This shared choice of material allows both switches to produce a similar acoustic signature, characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon's nature as a relatively soft plastic contributes to sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience compared to switches made with harder plastics. This interplay of softness in the materials ensures a smooth typing experience, reducing the higher frequency sounds typically associated with more rigid housings, leading to a more pleasant keystroke.
While the materials for the top and bottom housings in both the Mini i and the WS Pearl are the same—nylon—their effects on the overall typing experience can be nuanced. Each housing contributes differently to the acoustic and tactile feedback. The bottom housing, being more influential in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, mitigates harsher sounds at the point of actuation. Meanwhile, the top housing plays a crucial role during the release of the key, impacting how the switch sounds when letting go. Thus, even though both the Mini i and WS Pearl are made of identical nylon materials, slight variations in how each type of housing contributes can create a unique typing experience.
In conclusion, the similarities in the use of nylon for both the Gateron Mini i and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl lead to comparable acoustic properties, but the distinctive contributions of the top and bottom housings ensure varied tactile feedback during use. Users can expect a similar sound profile and smooth keystrokes from both switches, making them suitable choices for enthusiasts looking for a deep, rich typing experience. Nevertheless, the differing influences of the top and bottom housings remind users that subtle variations in design can lead to unique feelings and sounds, despite the same material composition.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Mini i tactile switch to the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, we observe distinct differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Mini i features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a soft touch, especially during long typing sessions or extended gaming. In contrast, the WS Pearl has a slightly lighter actuation force of 30 grams, but a heavier bottom out force of 58 grams, providing a firmer feel when pressing down fully. This means that while the Mini i makes it easier to trigger keystrokes, the WS Pearl offers a heavier resistance at the bottom, appealing to users who appreciate a more substantial typing experience. Thus, if you favor a lighter overall feel, the Gateron Mini i may be the preferred choice, while those who enjoy a more tactile resistance could lean towards the WS Pearl.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it one of the shorter options available, while the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is slightly longer. This 0.1 mm difference means that the Mini i offers a more responsive feel, appealing to gamers or those who prefer quicker actuation. Conversely, the slightly longer 3.5 mm travel distance of the WS Pearl can provide a more gradual typing experience, catering to users who appreciate a bit more depth in their key presses. Both switches exhibit travel distances that fall beneath the traditional 4.0 mm standard, indicating a trend towards more compact and efficient designs in the switch market. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Gateron Mini i is the better choice, while the WS Pearl will be more suitable for those who favor a more pronounced key press sensation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $6.00. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Mini i and WS Pearl.
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 Mini i tactile switch offers a muted and neutral sound profile that is ideal for both office environments and home use. This makes it an excellent choice for individuals who need to maintain a professional atmosphere while typing. The Mini i's gentle sound doesn't disrupt colleagues or family, providing a pleasant typing experience without being intrusive. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch delivers a medium-high pitched sound signature. While not as subdued as the Mini i, its sonic profile adds a unique character to the typing experience. However, sound can vary considerably depending on the keyboard assembly and keycap choice, so your personal setup could influence this quality.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Mini i switches are characterized by their bounciness and mild tactility that provide a spring-like feedback with each keystroke. This liveliness, combined with an easy-to-press actuation force, makes extended typing sessions both comfortable and enjoyable, minimizing finger fatigue. The subtle resistance and snappy response of the Mini i add to its approachable nature, appealing to a wide range of users. On the other hand, the WS Pearl's hallmark feature is its ball-bearing mechanism, which offers a remarkably smooth keystroke feel, surpassing traditional linear switches. While the Pearl doesn't have a tactile bump like the Mini i, its unique design offers a different kind of satisfaction through effortless key presses, making it stand out for those who prioritize a silky typing experience over tactile feedback.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the WS Pearl linear switch cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. While the Mini i excels in providing a muted sound and a gentle yet engaging typing feel, the WS Pearl sets itself apart with its incredibly smooth keystrokes and distinct sound profile. Depending on your typing style and the specific environment in which you’ll be using your keyboard, both switches can provide a rewarding experience; choosing between them ultimately comes down to whether you value subtle tactility or an exceptionally smooth linear response.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your choice between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch should be guided by the specific typing experience you seek. If you prefer a lightweight, tactile option that provides gentle feedback without the loud clatter, the Mini i is ideal for long hours of office work or quiet environments. Its subtly bouncy and easy-to-press nature ensures comfortable typing with minimal finger fatigue, making it a great match for tasks that require prolonged focus without distraction. Conversely, if you value a distinctly smooth keystroke and don't mind a slightly higher actuation force, the WS Pearl could be your go-to. Its unique ball-bearing design offers an ultra-smooth typing experience, perfect for users who appreciate minimal friction during their keystrokes, and its medium sound profile suits both home and office settings. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you favor a tactile, approachable feel or crave a silky linear switch with a bit more resistance.
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