Cherry MX Brown vs. Wuque Studio WS Dash
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Brown and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, Cherry MX Brown and Wuque Studio WS Dash present two distinct yet appealing options that cater to different typing preferences and experiences. The Cherry MX Brown is celebrated for its subtlety; it offers a gentle tactile feedback without overwhelming audio, making it an ideal choice for those who seek a balanced typing experience that is neither too noisy nor too soft. Its textured, low-pitched sound lends itself well to a quiet office environment or for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the WS Dash from Wuque Studio introduces a more vibrant typing experience characterized by its bright, clacky sound signature and smooth keystrokes, appealing to gamers and typists who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback. Its refined design, based on the acclaimed Magnetic Jade, adds to its allure, making it an enticing option for those looking to enhance their setup with a unique switch. Both switches have their strengths, but understanding their differences can help you align your choice with your specific needs and preferences. 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
45g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Brown and the Wuque Studio WS Dash utilize different materials for their top housings, leading to distinct auditory experiences when typing. The Cherry MX Brown features a nylon top housing, which is recognized for its ability to absorb sound, producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This soft plastic contributes to a typing experience characterized by a duller and rounder tone. Conversely, the WS Dash incorporates a polycarbonate top housing that is notably stiffer. This attribute generates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, resulting in a clearer and more resonant auditory experience. Therefore, while both switches offer their unique sound characteristics, the choice of housing material significantly impacts the acoustics during use.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Cherry MX Brown and the Wuque Studio WS Dash employ nylon material. This consistency in material choice means that users can expect similar results regarding sound absorption and tactile feedback in this segment of the switches. The nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience by creating a softer overall sound when the key bottoms out. Since both switches share this nylon material in their bottom housings, users are likely to experience a complementary sensation and sound when pressing the keys, making this aspect consistent across both switches.
The differing top housing materials of the Cherry MX Brown and Wuque Studio WS Dash exemplify how variations in housing contribute to the overall sound profile of a switch. While both switches share the absorbing qualities of nylon in their bottom housings, which enhance the depth of sound, the disparity in materials for the top housing creates a contrast in auditory experiences. Users favoring a fuller, more muted typing sound may gravitate toward the Cherry MX Brown, while those who prefer a sharper, crisper sound might favor the WS Dash. Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housing materials highlights the nuanced differences in feel and sound, showcasing the intricate design choices behind each switch.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch to the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, notable differences in actuation force become apparent. The MX Brown requires an actuation force of 45 grams, while the WS Dash is lighter, needing only 30 grams to actuate. Both switches share the same bottom out force of 55 grams, indicating that players and typists will feel the same resistance when fully depressing either switch. For users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the WS Dash offers an advantage with its lower actuation force. In contrast, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the MX Brown for its firmer actuation. Ultimately, while both switches bottom out with the same force, the difference in actuation force provides distinct tactile experiences suited to individual preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, a notable difference emerges. The Cherry MX Brown features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it ideal for users who appreciate a more substantial key press and a traditional typing experience. In contrast, the WS Dash offers a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, catering to those who prefer quicker response times often favored by gamers. This shorter distance may facilitate faster actuation, potentially enhancing gaming performance. Therefore, if you prioritize a more responsive feel, the WS Dash would be the preferable choice; whereas if you enjoy a deeper, more tactile feedback while typing, the Cherry MX Brown could be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on individual preference for travel distance and overall typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Wuque Studio WS Dash has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Dash for $7.49.
The Cherry MX Brown 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 it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Brown switches stand out for their bassy and low-pitched characteristics, providing a deeper and richer auditory feedback when typing. This sound profile offers a mellow and more relaxed typing experience, which can be particularly appealing in quieter environments. In contrast, the WS Dash Hall Effect switches deliver a bright and clacky sound that adds a lively atmosphere to any keyboard setup. This sharper sound signature, while distinct from the subtlety of the MX Browns, can bring an engaging auditory experience alive, though it's important to note that the final sound output will also depend on the specific keyboard design and keycap choice.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Brown switches possess a textured quality that introduces a noticeable resistance with each keystroke, allowing for a distinct tactile feedback that many enthusiasts appreciate. This textured feedback can enhance typing precision and facilitate a more engaging typing rhythm. On the other hand, the feel of the WS Dash remains unknown, but given their silky smooth keystroke, they are likely to provide a friction-free typing experience that contrasts with the more textured nature of the MX Browns. This difference means that while both switches cater to unique tactile experiences, users will find the Cherry MX Browns leaning towards a classic tactile feel while the WS Dash might attract those who favor smooth and fluid keystrokes.
In conclusion, selecting between Cherry MX Brown and WS Dash switches will largely depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel. The MX Brown offers a subtle, bassy sound with textured feedback, making it a great choice if you appreciate a more subdued typing experience. In contrast, the WS Dash provides a bright, clacky sound and a smooth keystroke that appeals to users seeking a more dynamic auditory and tactile experience. Evaluating these qualities will aid in making an informed decision that aligns with your typing style and aesthetic preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Cherry MX Brown and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switches, consider your typing preferences and the kind of experience you seek. If you appreciate subtlety in your keystrokes, the MX Brown offers a balanced combination of gentle tactility and a warm, bassy sound that provides a rich auditory feedback, making it an ideal choice for both typing and gaming. Their textured feel adds character and can enhance your typing experience, especially if you enjoy a bit of friction with each press. On the other hand, if you're looking for something a bit more vibrant and lively, the WS Dash switches deliver a bright and clacky sound signature that stands out while still maintaining a smooth keystroke. These hall effect switches cater more to those who prioritize an engaging auditory experience and a refined touch. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your preferred typing dynamics—opt for the MX Brown for a classic, understated feel or choose the WS Dash for a more spirited and exhilarating typing environment.
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