Cherry MX Black vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Cherry MX Black and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow. The MX Black, known for its iconic status, has been further perfected by Cherry with their new Hyperglide tooling. These switches offer a classic textured smoothness and produce a familiar deep sound profile while typing. On the other hand, the WS Yellow introduces a fusion of classic materials and cutting-edge engineering. With a 22mm double-stage spring at its core, these switches provide a delightful typing experience, characterized by a satisfying bounce. Additionally, the WS Yellow's material blend creates a sound signature that enthusiasts have grown to adore. Crafted to be lightweight, they offer effortless keystrokes for a smooth and fluid typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Cherry MX Black and Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches are both made of nylon, making them similar in terms of their composition. As a classic switch housing material, nylon offers certain advantages. Typing on switches with a nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon, being a softer plastic, has the ability to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, the sound produced by both the MX Black and WS Yellow switches will have a duller and rounder quality.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the MX Black and WS Yellow switches also utilize nylon. Similar to the top housing, the nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, creating a more muted and rounded effect. However, it's important to note that the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down.
In terms of comparison, both the MX Black and WS Yellow switches exhibit similar qualities due to their shared use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This means that when typing on either switch, you can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile, as well as a duller and rounder sound when keys are released. The nylon material's ability to absorb sound plays a significant role in both switches, contributing to their overall sound characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Cherry MX Black has a higher actuation force of 60 grams, requiring a stronger push to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the WS Yellow switch is not available. As for the bottom out force, the MX Black switch is heavier with 80 grams, while the WS Yellow switch has a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams.
Considering weight in switch selection, individuals seeking a lighter typing experience might prefer the WS Yellow switch, as the lighter bottom out force allows for extended periods of comfortable typing, especially for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who desire a more substantial push feel and a stronger typing experience may opt for the MX Black switch, with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Though the actuation force of the WS Yellow switch is unknown, it can be assumed that it would provide a similar result in terms of triggering keystrokes, giving users a comparable experience to the MX Black switch in that aspect.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, we can see that the MX Black has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Yellow has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. The MX Black's travel distance falls into the more traditional range of 4.0mm, while the WS Yellow offers a slightly shallower distance of 3.8mm.
In terms of preferences, gamers often opt for shorter travel distances like the WS Yellow as it allows for faster response times. The shorter distance can provide a more responsive feel when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt or lacking in depth. For those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing, the MX Black, with its longer travel distance, may be a better choice. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's personal preference for travel distance and their desired typing 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 Yellow 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
The Cherry MX Black and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches have distinct sound profiles. The MX Black switches produce a low-pitched sound, characterized by a bass-heavy and mellow tone. On the other hand, the WS Yellow switches' sound profile is unknown. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the MX Black switches have a textured and stiff nature. They provide noticeable friction when pressed, which some users prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Additionally, these switches require a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out. On the other hand, the WS Yellow switches have a creamy, mild, and polished feel. They offer a smooth and buttery typing experience, thanks to potential factory lubrication or specific materials used. These switches provide a gentle typing experience and have a refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, while the sound profile of the WS Yellow switches is not mentioned, it is likely that they offer a similar deep sound profile to the MX Black switches, as both are linear switches with a familiar sound signature. In terms of feel, the WS Yellow switches provide a different experience compared to the MX Black switches. The WS Yellow switches are described as creamy, mild, and polished, offering a smooth and polished typing experience. Meanwhile, the MX Black switches have a textured and stiff feel, providing a tactile typing experience with noticeable friction. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, consider the specific qualities and preferences you have for sound and feel. If you prefer a low-pitched sound profile with a textured and stiff typing experience, the MX Black switches would be a suitable choice for you. These switches offer a classic textured smoothness and a familiar deep sound profile when typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a creamy, mild, and polished typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, the WS Yellow switches would be more to your liking. These switches provide a delightful typing experience with a satisfying bounce and effortless keystrokes. They have a material blend that offers a familiar sound signature that enthusiasts adore and ensure a smooth and fluid typing experience. Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal preferences and the typing experience you desire.
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