Cherry MX Orange vs. Wuque Studio WS Jade
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Orange and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the merits of various options, including the Cherry MX Orange and the Wuque Studio WS Jade. The Cherry MX Orange switches, known for their revival of the original MX Orange design, offer a reliable linear experience with enhanced stability and responsiveness, making them a great choice for gamers and typists alike who seek performance without the distractions of tactile bumps or clicky sounds. On the other hand, the WS Jade switches provide a uniquely luxurious typing experience characterized by their metallic insert, resulting in a bright, resonant sound profile that adds a touch of auditory flair to each keystroke. Coupled with a light diffuser for vibrant RGB effects, the WS Jades excel in personalization and aesthetic appeal, catering to users who appreciate both form and function. While both switches are linear, your choice may depend on whether you prioritize a classic feel and reliable function or seek a more engaging auditory and visual experience. 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
55g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Orange switches and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches employ different materials for their switch housings, which has a notable impact on their acoustic and tactile performance. The MX Orange features a nylon top and bottom housing, characterized by its softer plastic composition, which contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile. This material effectively absorbs sound, resulting in a more muted auditory experience that is described as duller and rounder compared to switches made with harder plastics. In contrast, the WS Jade switches use POM (Polyoxymethylene) for both the top and bottom housings. POM is also known for its ability to produce a pleasing sound; however, it’s noted for an even more muted auditory profile than nylon, yielding a unique, deep sound that some users find particularly enjoyable.
Despite the differences in materials, both housing types produce a similar sound profile characterized by depth and a degree of muteness, which can enhance the overall typing experience. The nylon in the Cherry MX Orange contributes to its particular sound architectural characteristics, while the POM material used in the WS Jade offers its own unique auditory environment. However, since both materials are softer compared to harder plastics, they share the quality of absorbing sound effectively. This means that while they may have distinct tonal qualities, both switches create a relatively quiet, pleasant typing experience that minimizes harsh sound spikes during key presses.
Furthermore, the impact of the housing materials on typing feel is also relevant. The MX Orange’s nylon housing provides a tactile feedback that is rich and resonant, which can make a difference in both the bottom-out feel and the release sound when typing. Conversely, the WS Jade’s POM housing also influences these aspects but in a manner that is slightly more muted. While the top housing predominantly affects the sound upon releasing a key, the bottom housing more significantly influences the sound and feel when a key is pressed down. Thus, while the sensory experience of typing may differ slightly between the two, both the Cherry MX Orange and WS Jade can deliver satisfying results, particularly for users who value a deeper, more muted sound profile in their mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Orange linear switch to the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces and bottom out forces. The Cherry MX Orange has an actuation force of 55 grams, which is slightly heavier than the WS Jade's actuation force of 50 grams. This means that the MX Orange requires a bit more effort to actuate a keystroke, potentially making it more suitable for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the WS Jade, with its lighter actuation force, may be more comfortable for long typing sessions, especially for those who favor a lighter touch. Regarding bottom out forces, the WS Jade has a defined bottom out force of 60 grams, while the bottom out force for the MX Orange is currently unavailable. This indicates that regardless of the actuation force comparisons, the WS Jade is the heavier switch when pressed all the way down. Therefore, for users seeking a lighter, more effortless typing experience, the WS Jade would be the better choice, while those who appreciate a firmer feel may prefer the Cherry MX Orange.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, it's clear that they differ in their measurements. The MX Orange features a traditional travel distance of 4 mm, providing a more substantial depth that many users appreciate for its tactile feedback. In contrast, the WS Jade offers a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, appealing to those who prefer quicker actuation and faster response times, especially beneficial for gaming. For users who enjoy a hearty depth in their keystrokes, the Cherry MX Orange is the better choice, while those who favor a more responsive and quicker feel might lean towards the WS Jade. Thus, while both switches cater to different preferences, the MX Orange's longer travel distance can deliver a more satisfying typing experience, whereas the WS Jade's shorter distance offers the speed that many gamers seek.
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 Jade comes in at $4.30 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 characterized by a relatively muted and reserved auditory profile, allowing for a more subtle typing experience compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade switch boasts a distinct sound palette, featuring clacky, marbly, and resonant qualities. This means when typing on the WS Jade, you can expect a bright, percussive feedback that cuts through the ambient noise, enhancing the acoustic character of your keyboard. The combination of these auditory features adds an exciting dimension to the typing experience, making the WS Jade a more dynamic choice for those who appreciate pronounced sounds.
When it comes to feel, the MX Orange switch presents a smooth and linear experience that is satisfying while typing, though the specific tactile response details are less defined. In contrast, the WS Jade switch excels in this area, offering a silky and creamy touch that dissipates any resistance during key presses. This results in a buttery-smooth feel, allowing the typist to glide effortlessly over the keys with minimal friction. The rock-solid bottom-out provides a reassuring tactile feedback that many users find desirable, distinguishing the WS Jade as a prominent option for enthusiasts seeking a refined typing sensation.
Considering the overall qualities of both switches, the Cherry MX Orange offers a more understated yet reliable typing experience with its muted sound and smooth feel, appealing to users who prefer a less intrusive auditory response. Meanwhile, the WS Jade stands out with its vibrant sound profile and silky feel, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more interactive and immersive typing experience. If you are choosing between the two, you can expect the MX Orange to deliver a straightforward yet pleasant typing experience, while the WS Jade could immerse you in a lively auditory adventure paired with an exceptionally smooth keystroke. Ultimately, your choice will depend on the type of typing experience you value most.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Cherry MX Orange and Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switches largely depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you appreciate a lighter touch and enjoy a typing experience free from tactile feedback, the Cherry MX Orange is an excellent option for you. It's particularly well-suited for extended typing sessions where you prioritize speed and efficiency, as the lighter force enables quick keystrokes without strain. However, you might find the absence of a sound profile somewhat limiting if you prefer a more auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, if you desire a more tactile sensation and an engaging sound profile, the WS Jade is your go-to choice. Its medium bottom-out force provides a satisfying resistance, while the unique metallic and resonant sound adds an exciting element to your typing experience. Moreover, the smooth and creamy feel enhances your interaction with the keyboard, making it ideal for both typing and gaming. Ultimately, your decision will hinge on whether you prioritize a lighter, effortless action with the MX Orange or a more immersive, auditory experience with the WS Jade.