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Cherry MX Black vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi

An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Cherry MX Black and the WS Morandi by Wuque Studio. The MX Black is known for its classic textured smoothness, thanks to Cherry's new Hyperglide tooling. These switches offer a deep sound profile, making them a favorite among typists who enjoy a satisfying keystroke. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switches combine innovation with visual aesthetics. With their ultra-smooth linear feel and a unique dry and airy smoothness provided by the UPE stem, these switches offer a different typing experience. Additionally, the WS Morandi switches feature a mesmerizing light diffusion effect and strike the perfect balance between form and function with their medium weight and slightly shortened travel. Although both switches have distinct qualities, 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

50g

Bottom-out force

80g

Bottom-out force

60g

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Total travel

4.00 mm

Total travel

3.50 mm

Factory lubed

No

Factory lubed

Yes

Stem construction

Standard

Stem construction

Standard

Stem material

POM

Stem material

UPE

Top housing material

Nylon

Top housing material

POM

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Bottom housing material

POM

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

Stainless steel

Spring

18mm double-stage spring

Housing materials

The Cherry MX Black and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi employ different housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The MX Black utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, while the WS Morandi opts for a POM top and bottom housing. Both switches elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, but achieve this in unique ways. The MX Black's nylon housing, being softer and more absorbent, creates a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the WS Morandi's POM housing produces a relatively more muted and pleasing sound.

While the top and bottom housings differ between the MX Black and the WS Morandi, both contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is fully pressed down. With the softer and more sound-absorbent nylon bottom housing of the MX Black, a deeper and more muffled sound can be expected when the key bottoms out. Conversely, the POM bottom housing of the WS Morandi contributes to a relatively more muted and pleasant bottom-out experience.

The top housing, on the other hand, impacts the sound when the key is released. The nylon top housing of the MX Black absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller release sound. In contrast, the POM top housing of the WS Morandi creates a unique sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. Despite the differences in materials, the similar result is achieved in terms of creating a sound that is pleasing and offers a deeper auditory experience.

To summarize, the Cherry MX Black and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi differ in their choice of housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback. The MX Black's nylon housing offers a duller and rounder sound, while the WS Morandi's POM housing provides a relatively more muted and pleasing sound. Both switches share similarities in terms of eliciting a deeper sound experience, although achieved through different material properties. Additionally, the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when the key is released.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, a noticeable difference can be observed. The MX Black has an actuation force of 60 grams, which is considered heavy, while the actuation force of the WS Morandi is unavailable, implying that it is unknown. In terms of bottom out force, the MX Black requires 80 grams of force, making it heavier compared to the WS Morandi, which has a bottom out force of 60 grams, classified as medium.

Considering the weight of the switches is crucial for various reasons. Some individuals prefer a lighter actuation force as it allows them to type for extended periods without experiencing fatigue. This feature is particularly useful for keyboards used in professional settings or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, there are those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, desiring a stronger push feel. For these individuals, selecting options with heavier actuation forces would be more suitable.

Although the specific actuation force of the WS Morandi is not known, it can be assumed that it would provide a similar result to the MX Black if it falls within the desired range. However, the bottom out force of the WS Morandi indicates that it is comparatively lighter than the MX Black, offering a potentially different typing experience.

Ultimately, the choice between the Cherry MX Black and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi will depend on personal preference and typing style. Some may favor the heavier actuation and bottom out force of the MX Black for a more robust feel, while others may find the potentially lighter force of the WS Morandi more comfortable for prolonged usage.

Travel distance

When it comes to travel distance, the Cherry MX Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The MX Black switch falls into the more traditional range with its 4.0 mm travel distance, whereas the WS Morandi offers a slightly shallower experience at 3.5 mm. This can make a difference in terms of the feel and responsiveness of the keys. Gamers, for example, often prefer switches with shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you prioritize speed and quick reactions, the WS Morandi may be the better choice for you due to its shorter travel distance. However, it's important to note that shorter travel distances can sometimes feel abrupt to some users. If you prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on keys, then the MX Black switch with its longer travel distance would be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

The Wuque Studio WS Morandi has an MSRP of $4.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Morandi for $3.90.

The Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 per 10 switches.

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 comparing the sound of the Cherry MX Black and the WS Morandi switches, both switches fall under the category of low-pitched switches. Low-pitched switches are known for their bass-heavy and mellow tone. The MX Black offers a deep sound profile when typing, while the WS Morandi provides a slightly more muted sound. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors, such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. However, based on the information provided, both switches offer a similar low-pitched sound profile.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, the MX Black is described as having a textured feel. Textured switches have noticeable friction when pressed, and some users prefer this tactile feedback, while others prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience. Additionally, the MX Black is considered a stiff switch, requiring more force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches. On the other hand, the WS Morandi is described as providing a buttery and silky typing experience. These switches offer a seamless, effortless, and uniform feel when typing. They enhance overall smoothness and minimize resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In terms of texture, the WS Morandi switches do not have a specific descriptor mentioned. Therefore, the MX Black and WS Morandi switches offer different tactile experiences, with the MX Black being textured and stiff, while the WS Morandi is buttery and silky.

Taking all the available information into consideration, the Cherry MX Black and WS Morandi switches have distinct characteristics. In terms of sound, they both fall under the category of low-pitched switches, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The MX Black has a familiar deep sound profile, while the WS Morandi provides a slightly more muted sound. When it comes to feel, the MX Black is textured and stiff, requiring more force to actuate and bottom-out. In contrast, the WS Morandi is described as buttery and silky, providing a seamless and effortless typing experience. Overall, the two switches offer different experiences in terms of sound and feel. However, if you are looking for a low-pitched switch with smoothness and a mesmerizing effect on RGB visuals, both switches can provide similar results in those aspects.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when it comes to choosing between the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, there are a few factors to consider. If you prefer a heavier switch with a deep sound profile and a textured, stiff feel, then the MX Black is the way to go. On the other hand, if you value innovation, visual aesthetics, and a slightly more muted sound profile, the WS Morandi is the better choice. With its medium weight, light-diffusing column, and unique dry, airy, and wispy smoothness, the WS Morandi strikes a perfect balance between form and function. Its butterny, creamy, and silky typing experience provides a seamless and uniform sensation. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you're looking for.

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