Gateron Mini i vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Mini i and the Wuque Studio WS Red offer distinct experiences worth considering. The Gateron Mini i is a tactile switch that provides gentle tactility in each keystroke, making it ideal for office use with its quiet and soothing typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red is a linear switch known for its bouncy and responsive feel with a heavier actuation force that adds a satisfying weight to each keystroke. While the Gateron Mini i is perfect for those seeking a subtle and comfortable typing experience, the WS Red is best suited for those who prefer a more substantial and tactile feel. 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
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Mini i and the Wuque Studio WS Red feature nylon top and bottom housing materials, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall. This makes both switches appealing for users who prefer a quieter typing experience with a deeper sound.
Despite sharing the same nylon housing materials, the Gateron Mini i and the Wuque Studio WS Red may still offer slightly different typing experiences due to any potential variations in design or construction. While both switches will provide a similar deep and full sound profile, the distribution of these qualities between the top and bottom housings can impact the overall typing feel. The bottom housing tends to have more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the key, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key.
Ultimately, the Gateron Mini i and the Wuque Studio WS Red are likely to deliver comparable typing experiences due to their shared use of nylon housing materials. Both switches will offer a quieter typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the sound-absorbing properties of nylon. While there may be subtle differences in the way each switch feels when typing, users can expect a consistent level of performance and sound quality from both the Mini i and the WS Red.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it is evident that there are significant differences between them. The Mini i has an actuation force of 40 grams, making it a lighter option compared to the WS Red, which has an unknown actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Mini i requires 50 grams, while the WS Red has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. This means that the Mini i offers a lighter typing experience overall, ideal for those who prefer less resistance while typing for extended periods. On the other hand, the WS Red provides a firmer push feel, which can be preferred by individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Mini i tactile switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the WS Red linear switch. The shorter travel distance of the Mini i switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the WS Red switch may provide a more substantial keypress feel for those who prefer more depth. However, both switches fall within a relatively close range of travel distances, so users can expect similar results in terms of overall tactile feedback and keypress experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Red comes in at $3.50.
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 switch is known for its neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various settings and users. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red switch's sound characteristics are not provided. Depending on the user's preferences and setup, the sound produced by each switch may vary.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Mini i switch offers a bouncy and easy-to-press typing experience, with a mild and subtle feel that enhances the overall typing experience. The Wuque Studio WS Red switch, on the other hand, is described as providing a bouncy and responsive feel with a heavier actuation force, delivering a satisfying and substantial typing experience.
Taking into account the information provided, the Gateron Mini i switch seems to be more suited for users looking for a versatile switch with a neutral sound profile and a gentle, bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red switch caters to users seeking a more responsive and substantial typing experience with a heavier actuation force. It is important to consider personal preferences and typing habits when choosing between these two switches to ensure a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, consider the specific needs of your typing experience. If you prioritize a lightweight typing experience with gentle tactility, ideal for long hours of comfortable and quiet typing sessions in a professional setting, then the Gateron Mini i switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier actuation force that adds weight to each keystroke, along with a bouncy and responsive typing experience, then the Wuque Studio WS Red switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your choice should be based on the feel and sound profile that best aligns with your typing style and environment.
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