Gateron Mini i vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Mini i and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear offer distinct experiences for users. The Gateron Mini i is a tactile switch that provides a gentle tactility with each keystroke, making it ideal for office environments where quiet professionalism is key. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear is a linear switch designed to reduce switch noise while maintaining responsiveness and a satisfying bottom-out feel. While the Mini i offers a subtle and snappy typing experience, the WS Silent Linear provides a muted and subdued feel. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
63.5g
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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Mini i and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear both use nylon as the material for their top and bottom switch housings. This means that typing on switches from either of these keyboards will elicit a similar deep and full sound profile. The nylon material's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This indicates that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either of these switches.
While both the Mini i and the WS Silent Linear share the same housing material for their switches, the design and construction of the switches may vary. The specific layout and construction of the housing components, such as the stem and springs, can impact the overall typing experience. It is important to consider how the nylon housing interacts with these other components in each switch. This could potentially affect factors such as key travel distance, actuation force, and overall smoothness of the typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Mini i and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear may come down to personal preference and desired typing experience. While both keyboards utilize nylon for their switch housings, the overall typing experience may vary based on the specific design and construction of each switch. Users should consider factors such as key feel, sound profile, and additional features when deciding between these two options. Regardless of the differences, both keyboards offer a similar typing experience thanks to the common use of nylon for their switch housings.
Weight
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, which does not have a specified actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Mini i at 50 grams is lighter than the 63.5 grams required for the WS Silent Linear switch. This means that the Mini i switch is overall lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Mini i, while those looking for a more substantial typing experience may prefer the heavier feel of the WS Silent Linear switch. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter range of traditional travel distances, with the Mini i being the shorter of the two. Gamers may opt for the Mini i for its slightly faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the WS Silent Linear. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and how it affects typing or gaming 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 Silent Linear comes in at $4.20.
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 Mini i and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches are both categorized as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various environments. The Mini i provides a fairly muted sound that maintains a satisfying typing feedback, ideal for office settings where a quiet professionalism is needed. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switches offer a more subdued and muted sound due to their design that minimizes switch noise without the use of silicone dampeners. While the Mini i leans towards a gentle and balanced sound, the WS Silent Linear switches prioritize tranquility and precision without sacrificing responsiveness.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Mini i switches offer a bouncy and easy-to-press typing experience, providing a spring-like feedback and requiring minimal force to activate. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the Mini i switches are described as mild, offering a more gentle typing experience suitable for most users. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches are also categorized as mild, providing a gentle typing feel that is approachable and comfortable for a wide range of users. This indicates that both switches offer a subtle and responsive typing experience with a focus on comfort and ease of use.
Overall, the Gateron Mini i tactile switches and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switches share similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches provide a neutral sound profile suitable for various environments, with the Mini i leaning towards a more balanced and muted sound while the WS Silent Linear switches offer a more subdued and quiet typing experience. Additionally, both switches offer a mild and gentle typing feel that prioritizes comfort and responsiveness, making them ideal choices for a wide range of users. Whether you choose the Mini i or the WS Silent Linear switches, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with minimal noise and gentle tactility.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you value a lightweight, bouncy feel with a subtle sound and are looking for a switch that is ideal for quiet, professional environments like the office, the Gateron Mini i may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a mild typing experience with reduced noise and a more muted sound profile for a balanced blend of tranquility and precision, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch could be the ideal option. Consider your typing habits, workspace environment, and personal preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing needs.
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