Cherry MX Brown vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Cherry MX Brown and Wuque Studio WS Onion offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Cherry MX Brown is known for its subtlety, providing a light typing experience with gentle tactility and soft audio feedback. On the other hand, the WS Onion boasts a polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, creating a buttery smooth keystroke feel that is deeply satisfying. Additionally, the WS Onion offers a crisp and responsive feel, with a neutral sound profile. While these general descriptions can help guide your decision, let's delve into the specifics to determine which switch is the best fit for your needs.

By the numbers

Cherry MX Brown Tactile

Wuque Studio WS Onion Linear

$4.00 per 10

$7.00

$5.53 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Cherry MX Brown and the Wuque Studio WS Onion differ in their composition, resulting in contrasting sound profiles. The MX Brown employs a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to absorb sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the WS Onion utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. While the nylon housing dulls the sound, the polycarbonate material enhances clarity and resonance. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing of the WS Onion allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it visually appealing. Overall, the choice between these two housing materials depends on the desired sound experience and aesthetic preferences.

When it comes to the bottom housing, both the MX Brown and the WS Onion utilize nylon material. This common choice contributes to a similar outcome, as nylon is well-known for its ability to absorb sound and create a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon plastic leads to a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Therefore, while the MX Brown may have a different top housing material, the bottom housing ensures that both switches elicit a similar sound experience.

The impact of the housing materials on the overall sound of the switches is divided between the top and bottom housings. When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing are more pronounced, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, when releasing a key, the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound produced. This indicates that the choice of housing material should be considered based on how the user wants the switch to sound during both the actuation and release of the keys. Understanding the contributions of the top and bottom housing materials helps users make an informed decision and achieve the desired auditory experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The MX Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is considered medium-light, while the actuation force of the WS Onion is currently unavailable. However, it is important to note that both switches provide a tactile feedback during actuation. In terms of the bottom out force, the MX Brown requires 55 grams of force, which is slightly heavier compared to the WS Onion's 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy.

Considering weight, individuals may have varying preferences. Some may prefer a lighter actuation force, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer a switch with a heavier actuation force. In this case, the MX Brown would provide a medium-light typing experience, while the WS Onion would offer a medium-heavy feel.

Unfortunately, due to the unavailability of information regarding the actuation force of the WS Onion, it is difficult to provide a direct comparison in terms of actuation force. However, given that both switches provide a tactile feedback, they may likely offer a similar experience during actuation. Ultimately, when selecting a switch, individuals should consider their personal preferences regarding the weight or force required for typing, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.

Travel distance

Both the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, you will feel the switch travel a distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Therefore, the travel distance of both switches is the same, resulting in similar tactile feedback and experience when typing. Whether you choose the Cherry MX Brown or the Wuque Studio WS Onion switch, you can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Cherry MX Brown and Wuque Studio WS Onion switches offer different profiles. The MX Brown is characterized by a bassy and low-pitched sound. This results in a deeper and richer tone during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the WS Onion has a neutral sound profile. It produces a moderate sound that is suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced user, and whether you're planning to use the switches at home or work. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the MX Brown is known for its textured switches. These switches have noticeable friction when pressed, providing a unique typing experience preferred by some users who enjoy a tactile feedback. Conversely, the WS Onion offers a buttery and polished feel. The buttery smooth keystroke experience of these switches offers a seamless, effortless, and uniform sensation while typing. The polished finish of the switches reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel.

Based on the available information, the Cherry MX Brown and WS Onion switches offer distinct qualities. The MX Browns have a subtle tactile feedback and a subdued audio feedback, making them ideal for those seeking a gentle and lightweight typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Onion switches provide a crisp and responsive feel, along with a neutral sound profile. While the sound and feel of these two switches differ, it's worth noting that individual preferences can also play a significant role in the perceived qualities of a switch. Ultimately, both options can deliver satisfying results, albeit with different subjective qualities.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, there are a few key factors to consider. If you prioritize a lighter typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback, the MX Brown is the way to go. On the other hand, if you value a buttery smooth keystroke feel, crisp responsiveness, and a neutral sound profile, the WS Onion is an excellent choice. If you prefer a switch with a deeper and richer sound profile, the MX Brown's bassy and low-pitched characteristics may appeal to you. However, if you prefer a more moderate sound profile that suits various environments and purposes, the WS Onion's neutral sound is a great fit. Lastly, if you prefer a textured typing experience with noticeable friction, the MX Brown is the better option. Alternatively, if you seek a smooth and polished typing experience with reduced friction and uniform keystrokes, the WS Onion is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should weigh these factors against your personal preferences and requirements.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Brown Tactile

$4.00 per 10

Learn more

Wuque Studio WS Onion Linear

$7.00

$5.53 per 10

Learn more