Gateron Mountain Top vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mountain Top and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch, both offer unique features that cater to office environments. The Mountain Top switch from Gateron is known for its quiet yet not entirely silent typing experience, perfect for professional settings that require discretion. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch by Wuque elevates your office experience with reduced switch noise and exceptional responsiveness, without the usual cushioned sensation of traditional silent switches. While the Mountain Top switch provides a bouncy and easy-to-press feel, the WS Silent Linear switch offers a more subdued and muted typing experience. Both switches have their strengths and it ultimately comes down to personal preference, 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
Both the Gateron Mountain Top and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches utilize nylon as the material for their top and bottom housings. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound and create a rounder tone compared to harder plastics. The choice of nylon for both switches suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality and overall feel.
Despite both switches using nylon for their housing materials, there may be slight variations in sound and feel due to potential differences in manufacturing processes or design. The impact of the housing material becomes apparent when considering the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, with the bottom housing playing a significant role in this aspect. On the other hand, the top housing is more influential in the sound generated when releasing a key. These subtle differences may lead to a unique typing experience for each switch, even though they share the same material for their housings.
In conclusion, the Gateron Mountain Top and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches offer a similar sound profile and typing experience thanks to their use of nylon for both top and bottom housings. While the housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, the specific design and construction of each switch may result in slightly different tactile feedback and typing feel. Ultimately, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience, and the choice between the two may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, the Mountain Top is lighter with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear is heavier with a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, although its actuation force is unknown. The lighter actuation force of the Mountain Top may appeal to those who prefer typing for extended periods or engaging in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the WS Silent Linear may offer a more substantial typing experience to users who enjoy a stronger push feeling. Both switches provide different experiences in terms of force, allowing users to choose based on their preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch is 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 range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the Gateron Mountain Top, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their key presses may opt for the WS Silent Linear. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, and both are likely to provide a similar typing experience in terms of key travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Mountain Top 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 Mountain Top and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches both fall under the category of neutral switches with a moderate sound profile. However, the WS Silent Linear has additional descriptors of muted and subdued, indicating a softer and quieter sound compared to the Mountain Top switch. The WS Silent Linear switch achieves this without using silicone dampeners, providing a unique typing experience that balances tranquility with precision. Ultimately, both switches offer a suitable sound profile for office environments, with the WS Silent Linear offering a quieter typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Mountain Top switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, and subtle, offering a range of tactile experiences suited for various preferences. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch is described as having a mild typing experience, which falls in the middle-ground zone of typing feel. While the Mountain Top switch provides options for those who prefer more pronounced characteristics like bounciness and snappiness, the WS Silent Linear switch focuses on delivering a gentle typing feel that is approachable to most users.
Overall, the Gateron Mountain Top and Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches both cater to office environments with their emphasis on quiet typing experiences. While the Mountain Top switch offers a comfortable light actuation and a range of tactile options, the WS Silent Linear switch prioritizes reducing switch noise without silicone dampeners, resulting in an unparalleled responsiveness. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the subdued sound profile of the WS Silent Linear or the versatile tactile options of the Mountain Top switch to enhance their typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your specific preferences and requirements. If you prioritize a light actuation force and a quiet yet not entirely silent typing experience, the Mountain Top switch by Gateron is a solid choice, especially for professional settings where discreet typing is essential. On the other hand, if you seek reduced switch noise without the use of silicone dampeners, along with unparalleled responsiveness and a satisfying bottom-out, the WS Silent Linear switch by Wuque Studio is the way to go. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile and a gentle typing experience, making them suitable for various intents and purposes, whether at home or in the office. Ultimately, consider your typing habits and environment to determine which switch aligns best with your needs.