Cherry MX Black vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Cherry MX Black and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile are two popular options to consider. The MX Black is a linear switch that is best known for its low-pitched, textured feel and stiff keypress. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile is a tactile switch that offers a unique stepped feel, neutral sound signature, and easy-to-press keypress. While the MX Black provides a classic smooth typing experience, the WS Light Tactile offers a satisfying tactile feedback with a more neutral sound profile. 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Black and the WS Light Tactile switches, one noticeable difference lies in the top housing material. The MX Black uses a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs sound effectively. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The choice of material in the top housing significantly impacts the acoustics of the switches, with nylon offering a more subdued sound compared to the clear and resonant sound produced by polycarbonate.
Another point of comparison is found in the bottom housing material of the MX Black and the WS Light Tactile switches, where both use nylon for this component. This shared use of nylon in the bottom housing results in a similar typing experience for both switches, eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon helps to absorb sound effectively, creating a duller and rounder sound that can be experienced when pressing down on the keys. Despite differences in the top housing material, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel for both switches.
Overall, the combination of different housing materials in the Cherry MX Black and the WS Light Tactile switches results in distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. While the MX Black's nylon top housing provides a softer and fuller sound, the WS Light Tactile's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound. However, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that both switches maintain a similar depth and fullness in sound. The choice of housing materials in each switch plays a crucial role in determining the overall acoustics and tactile feedback experienced by users, showcasing the importance of material selection in switch design.
Weight
The Cherry MX Black linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for users who enjoy typing for longer periods without fatigue. The MX Black switch is better suited for individuals who prefer heavier forces, while the WS Light Tactile switch is recommended for those who prefer a lighter touch. Both switches offer distinct typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for typing intensity.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, they both provide the same tactile feedback and actuation point, resulting in a similar typing experience for users. This means that regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance and overall feel. Whether you prefer the Cherry MX Black linear switch or the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, you can feel confident knowing that the travel distance will be consistent and provide a smooth keystroke experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile 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
In terms of sound, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is known for its low-pitched and deep sound profile, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is familiar to many users. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch provides a neutral sound signature, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Both switches offer different sound profiles, with the MX Black having a more distinctive low-pitched tone and the WS Light Tactile providing a more neutral and unobtrusive sound.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Black switch is recognized for its textured and stiff characteristics, providing a tactile experience with noticeable friction and requiring a higher amount of force to actuate. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch offers a stepped feel with easy-to-press keys, providing a more gentle resistance during key presses and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. While the MX Black switch offers a textured and stiff typing experience, the WS Light Tactile switch provides a smoother and easier-to-press feel with a mild tactile bump.
Overall, the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The MX Black is known for its deep and low-pitched sound profile, as well as its textured and stiff typing feel, making it a popular choice for users who prefer a more tactile and impactful typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch provides a neutral sound signature and a stepped feel with easy-to-press keys, catering to users who prefer a smoother and more effortless typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. Choose the MX Black if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a textured, stiff typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a classic and deep typing feel. On the other hand, opt for the WS Light Tactile if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, easy-to-press typing experience with a neutral sound profile. This switch is suitable for a wide range of users, whether you are a beginner or advanced typist. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound signature.
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