Cherry MX Orange vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Cherry MX Orange and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile can greatly influence your typing and gaming experience. The Cherry MX Orange, a linear switch, stands out for its smooth keystrokes and lack of a tactile bump, making it ideal for users who prioritize quietness and consistency in their typing. This switch, recently reissued as part of the MX2A generation, caters to those who appreciate a traditional yet refined performance. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile provides a delightful typing experience with its snappy tactile bump and neutral sound signature. This switch strikes a balance between responsiveness and feel, appealing to users who enjoy tactile feedback without overwhelming noise. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on personal preferences, but however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Cherry MX Orange Linear

Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile Tactile

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

$4.20 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Orange and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches, the most notable difference lies in the top housing. The Cherry MX Orange features a nylon top housing, renowned for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs sound, resulting in a more muted auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, more high-pitched sound. Polycarbonate is a stiffer material, and its clarity enhances the sound of keystrokes, especially when paired with RGB lighting, making the switch visually engaging as well. Thus, while both switches provide distinct auditory experiences, the MX Orange's nylon top lends itself to a more subdued and rounded sound while the WS Light Tactile offers a brighter and clearer note.

However, when considering the bottom housing, both switches share a nylon material, unifying their acoustic characteristics at this level. The nylon bottom housing contributes to the overall tactile feedback of the switches, as it tends to absorb sound, resulting in a rounder bottom-out feel. This shared use of nylon in the bottom housing means that despite the differences in the top housing materials, both switches exhibit similarities in terms of the deeper audio profile when the key is fully pressed down. In essence, the interactions within the bottom housings enrich the tactile sensation and sound feel, allowing for a consistent experience during key presses, regardless of the contrasting top housings.

In essence, the Cherry MX Orange and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches showcase how varying top housing materials can influence sound profiles, while a consistent bottom housing material bridges any potential gaps in tactile and auditory experiences. The nylon bottom of both switches ensures a deeper full sound at bottom-out, while the differing top materials contribute to an overall distinct typing experience. Users may prefer one switch over the other based on the clarity or depth of the sound they seek, but the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the combined auditory feedback, ensuring cohesive performance. This duality allows for a tailored typing experience that can cater to varying preferences while highlighting the unique characteristics of each switch.

Weight

When comparing the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, notable differences in actuation force and bottom out force are apparent. The MX Orange has an actuation force of 55 grams, which makes it a heavier switch, while the WS Light Tactile requires a lighter actuation force of just 45 grams. This lighter actuation can be advantageous for those looking to type or game for long durations without fatigue. However, the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Orange is currently unknown, whereas the WS Light Tactile has a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that even though the WS Light Tactile requires less force to actuate, it still provides a distinct tactile feedback before reaching its bottom. In summary, if you prefer a heavier switch that delivers a more substantial feel while typing, the Cherry MX Orange would be the better choice, whereas the WS Light Tactile suits those who favor a lighter keystroke, allowing for easier and potentially longer typing or gaming sessions.

Travel distance

Both the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm, which means that pressing either switch will result in a similar distance being covered from the top to the bottom. This equal travel distance suggests that users can expect comparable keypress sensations and performance when utilizing either switch. As such, for applications where travel distance is a critical factor, these two switches will yield similar results in terms of keystroke depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Orange switch is characterized by a balanced auditory profile that is neither overly loud nor completely muted, making it versatile for a variety of settings without being disruptive. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch boasts a neutral sound signature, which is also moderate in volume. This makes it suitable for both beginners and advanced users alike, whether at home or in a work environment. While both switches aim for a non-intrusive sound experience that fits seamlessly into different contexts, the specific acoustics may still vary based on the choice of keyboard and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the MX Orange switch has an undeniably smooth actuation that appeals to many typists and gamers. Meanwhile, the WS Light Tactile switch features a stepped tactile feel, offering a perceptible bump at actuation that distinguishes it from more traditional smooth linear switches. The WS Light Tactile is further enhanced by its easy-to-press design, requiring minimal force for activation and providing a comfortable typing experience that reduces fatigue during long sessions. Overall, the MX Orange prioritizes smoothness, while the WS Light Tactile blends tactile feedback with a gentler actuation, both catering to different typing preferences.

In conclusion, both the Cherry MX Orange and Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches offer appealing sound and feel qualities, though they cater to slightly different preferences. The MX Orange features a more linear, smooth experience and a balanced sound, while the WS Light Tactile incorporates a noticeable tactile bump and a neutral auditory profile that allows for a comfortable typing experience with light effort. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feedback during typing or gaming, either switch could provide a satisfying experience, but they each have their unique characteristics that set them apart.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you seek a switch that provides a smooth, linear experience without any tactile feedback—ideal for gaming or fast-paced typing—the Cherry MX Orange is an excellent choice. Its lack of tactile bumps allows for uninterrupted keystrokes, making it suitable for scenarios where speed and fluid motion are paramount. Conversely, if you appreciate a tactile sensation that offers a mild bump and feedback during key presses, the WS Light Tactile switch would be more appropriate for you. Its light actuation force and neutral sound profile make it versatile enough for both work and casual use, ensuring comfort during long typing sessions while still allowing you to feel each keystroke without harshness. Ultimately, evaluate how you intend to use your keyboard, as these switches cater to different needs and preferences in the typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Orange Linear

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

Learn more

Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile Tactile

$4.20 per 10

Learn more