Cherry MX Orange vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Orange and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference, performance, and typing experience. The Cherry MX Orange switches, a revival of the original design enhanced with MX2A technology, are known for their smooth linear action, allowing for rapid key presses without tactile interruption. This makes them an excellent choice for gamers seeking a responsive and uninterrupted experience during fast-paced gameplay. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches stand out with their pronounced tactile bump and substantial 70g resistance, creating a deeply engaging typing experience accentuated by their "thocky" sound profile, perfect for those who appreciate a satisfying feedback loop while typing. While the MX Orange offers a quieter and more fluid feel ideal for gamers, the WS Heavy Tactile appeals to typists looking for an immersive and tactile sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Orange and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches, it's notable that both feature nylon as the primary component for their top and bottom housings. This consistency in material choice lends both switches a similar acoustic profile, characterized by a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, is adept at absorbing sound waves more effectively than harder materials, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. Consequently, users of either switch can expect a satisfying acoustic feedback that enhances the typing experience, a trait that is particularly appealing to both gamers and typists who appreciate tactile switches.
Though both switches utilize nylon for their housing, the inherent design and mechanical specifics of each switch are also significant factors that contribute to their overall feel and performance. While the MX Orange maintains a certain level of resistance, designed for a balanced actuation and tactile feedback, the WS Heavy Tactile may provide a slightly enhanced tactile bump due to its specialized construction. This variation in design may result in differences in feel when bottoming out or releasing the keys, despite sharing the same housing material. Thus, while both switches can deliver similar sound dynamics, users may discern subtler differences in tactile response and key press feedback attributable to their unique internal mechanisms.
In practical terms, the shared nylon construction does suggest that users can achieve similar auditory results. However, the specific tactile profiles will be influenced by the respective bottom-out and key-release experiences of each switch. For instance, pressing down on the MX Orange may yield a subtly different feel compared to the WS Heavy Tactile, even if both ultimately convey the same satisfying sound upon release. Therefore, while sound may harmonize between the two switches, the tactile feedback experience could diverge, ultimately leading to distinct user experiences rooted in the nuanced designs of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, a notable difference exists in their actuation forces. The Cherry MX Orange requires an actuation force of 55 grams, while the WS Heavy Tactile has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This means that users who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the WS Heavy Tactile more comfortable for extended use, such as during lengthy work sessions or gaming. However, the bottom out characteristics contrast significantly; the WS Heavy Tactile switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is medium-heavy, while the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Orange is unspecified. This suggests that while the WS Heavy Tactile provides a heavier feel upon bottoming out, the MX Orange may offer a different experience since that data is unavailable. Ultimately, the MX Orange is the heavier option in terms of actuation force, making it suitable for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, while the WS Heavy Tactile is the lighter choice, appealing to those who prefer easier keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Orange switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. This means that the MX Orange provides a more pronounced depth when pressed, appealing to users who enjoy a heavier, more substantial feel during typing. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile's shorter travel distance may cater to gamers or those seeking rapid response times, although some users might find this abrupt. Therefore, if one prioritizes depth and a more traditional typing experience, the Cherry MX Orange would be the preferable choice. Conversely, if quick actuation and speed are top priorities, the WS Heavy Tactile offers a more efficient option. Ultimately, the preferences for either switch will depend on individual typing styles and needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
The Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile comes in at $3.50 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
In terms of sound, the Cherry MX Orange switch is known for its muted profile, allowing for a quieter typing experience that is less obtrusive. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch features a distinctly clacky sound, characterized by sharp and crisp auditory feedback. The WS Heavy Tactile produces a high-pitched and resonant sound, which can be described as engaging and percussive, making it particularly appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory element when typing. The sound quality of both switches can still be influenced by the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Orange switch excels at providing a smooth and linear typing experience, which appeals to users who prefer a seamless keypress without any tactile bump. Conversely, the WS Heavy Tactile switch is designed to deliver a rich tactile response, with a significant 70g bump that provides a lively and invigorating feedback. Users will experience a notable and pronounced tactile sensation with the WS switch, making each keypress feel more engaged and responsive. The characteristics of bounce, accentuation, and snappiness in the WS Heavy Tactile further enhance the typing experience, contrasting sharply with the smooth nature of the MX Orange.
In summary, while the Cherry MX Orange linear switch prioritizes a quiet and smooth typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile offers a lively auditory and tactile feedback that is engaging and pronounced. The choice between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference—if you value a silent and fluid motion, the MX Orange may be more suitable, whereas those who appreciate tactile and auditory qualities might find the WS Heavy Tactile to be the more satisfying option.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between Cherry MX Orange linear switches and Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches will heavily depend on your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you appreciate a smooth, linear action suited for fast-paced gaming or a minimalist typing experience, the MX Orange is the perfect fit, thanks to its revamped design and the absence of a tactile bump, allowing for swift key presses without auditory distractions. On the other hand, if you're drawn to a more tactile feel that enhances your typing experience with a pronounced feedback sensation, the WS Heavy Tactile is an excellent choice. Its 70g actuation force and captivating "thocky" sound profile create an engaging atmosphere, making each key press satisfying and impactful. Thus, consider the MX Orange for a sleek, quiet, and agile option primarily for gaming, while the WS Heavy Tactile serves well for those who enjoy the auditory and tactile satisfaction of traditional typing. Overall, your selection should align with whether you seek a seamless, linear experience or an immersive, tactile engagement.
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