Cherry MX Brown vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Brown and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Brown and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note their differences in tactile feedback and sound signatures. The MX Brown is characterized by its subtlety, offering a light typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switches provide a smooth typing experience with a snappy and perceptible tactile bump, along with a neutral sound signature. While the MX Brown may appeal to those seeking a quieter typing experience, the WS Light Tactile switches are great for those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
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 Brown and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile, it is clear that the MX Brown utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, while the WS Light Tactile employs polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. This leads to a contrast in sound profiles, with the MX Brown offering a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of nylon, while the WS Light Tactile provides a sharper and crisper sound because of the stiffer polycarbonate in the top housing. Despite this difference, both switches benefit from the sound absorption quality of nylon in the bottom housing, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall.
One significant difference between the two switches lies in the aesthetic appeal of the housing materials. The WS Light Tactile's utilization of clear polycarbonate in the top housing allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making it an ideal choice for those looking to customize their keyboard with colorful backlighting. In contrast, the MX Brown's opaque nylon housing may not offer the same visual appeal when it comes to lighting effects. However, the choice between clear polycarbonate and opaque nylon ultimately depends on personal preference and design priorities.
In terms of typing experience, the housing materials play a crucial role in determining the overall feel and sound of the switches. While both switches offer a unique tactile feedback, the Cherry MX Brown's nylon housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, whereas the WS Light Tactile's combination of polycarbonate and nylon creates a sharper and crisper sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two housing materials comes down to individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics when it comes to selecting the ideal switch for a mechanical keyboard.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch differ slightly in weight. The MX Brown has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams compared to the WS Light Tactile's 50 grams, making it a medium-light switch. However, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, providing a consistent typing experience when initially pressing the key. For those who prefer a lighter feel, the WS Light Tactile switch may be more suitable, as it requires less force to bottom out. In contrast, the MX Brown offers a slightly heavier bottom out force for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing comfort and key press feedback.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This uniformity ensures that users can expect similar results in terms of tactile feedback and keypress experience when using either of these switches. Having a travel distance of 4 mm is considered standard for many mechanical switches, providing a balance between key travel and typing comfort. Overall, both switches offer a consistent typing experience with the same travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Cherry MX Brown 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
When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Brown switches are known for their bassy and low-pitched tones, providing a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switches offer a neutral sound signature, making them suitable for a wide range of users and environments. The sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so the choice between these two switches will ultimately come down to personal preference.
Moving on to feel, the Cherry MX Brown switches are described as having a textured feel, which may be preferred by users who appreciate a tactile typing experience with noticeable friction. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile switches offer a stepped feel, providing a more mild tactile sensation with some pre-travel and/or post-travel stages. Additionally, the WS Light Tactile switches are easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance and requiring minimal force to activate, ultimately reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions.
In conclusion, both the Cherry MX Brown and WS Light Tactile switches have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a subtler typing experience with a bassy sound profile, the Cherry MX Brown switches may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a snappy tactile bump and a neutral sound signature, the WS Light Tactile switches could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between Cherry MX Brown tactile switches and Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switches, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a subtle and gentle tactile bump with a medium-light typing force and a bassy sound profile, the MX Brown switches may be the better choice for you. However, if you enjoy a snappy tactile bump with a light typing force and a neutral sound signature, the WS Light Tactile switches might suit your preferences better. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing style and sound preference.
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