Cherry MX Orange vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Orange and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly impact your typing experience, and two popular options stand out for different reasons: the Cherry MX Orange and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile. The Cherry MX Orange, a linear switch, is celebrated for its smooth keystrokes and consistency, making it an ideal choice for gamers and writers who prefer an uninterrupted flow while typing. Its recent reissue, enhanced by MX2A generation innovations, brings back the beloved characteristics of its predecessor, catering to a growing demand for high-performance switches. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch offers a balance of tactile feedback without the noise typically associated with tactile switches. Designed with office environments in mind, its unique construction eliminates the need for silicone dampeners, ensuring a silent yet responsive typing experience that keeps distractions to a minimum. While both switches serve distinct purposes, choosing between them depends on your specific preferences and typing needs. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Orange and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches, one key similarity is immediately apparent: both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches, as nylon is a softer plastic compared to alternatives like polycarbonate or ABS. The inherent properties of nylon allow it to absorb more sound, reducing sharpness and resulting in a duller, more rounded auditory experience when typing. Consequently, users of either switch can expect a certain consistency in auditory feedback during typing, thus fostering a satisfying experience that is less jarring than harder plastic switches.
Despite their shared use of nylon, different mechanical designs or spring characteristics might lend each switch its own unique feel. For instance, while the MX Orange is known for its tactile feedback and actuation point, the WS Silent Tactile may come with additional silencing features that aim to minimize noise further. This can affect how each switch's nylon housings interact with the overall typing experience—while the MX Orange can provide a pronounced tactile bump, the WS Silent Tactile is designed to offer a similar tactile sensation without the associated sound, enhancing the muted experience even with the same nylon materials.
Ultimately, while both switches rely on nylon for their housings, it's the complementary design features and intended user experiences that differentiate them. If a user values a pronounced tactile response with some audible feedback, the Cherry MX Orange is an excellent option. On the other hand, if someone prefers a quieter operation without sacrificing tactile feel, the WS Silent Tactile shines with its muted design. Thus, even though the fundamental material choices yield similar acoustic profiles, the slight variations in design and intent create distinct experiences, catering to different preferences for keyboard users.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch, we see notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The MX Orange switch has a well-defined actuation force of 55 grams, which is the amount of pressure required to trigger a keystroke, while its bottom out force remains unknown. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile switch does not have a specified actuation force but has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, classified as medium-heavy. This means that in terms of actuation force, the MX Orange is the lighter option, likely providing a more effortless typing experience, which is beneficial for long typing sessions or gaming. The WS Silent Tactile, on the other hand, offers a heavier bottoming out force, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial tactile experience when pressing down fully on the keys. However, without the known actuation force for the WS Silent Tactile, we cannot determine if it also has a comparable actuation feel. Ultimately, users looking for a lighter touch may gravitate towards the MX Orange, while those favoring a heavier feel may lean towards the WS Silent Tactile for its more deliberate bottoming out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Cherry MX Orange linear switch is 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference indicates that the MX Orange offers a more substantial depth, which may appeal to users who prefer a traditional feel when typing. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile's shorter travel distance may provide quicker response times, making it a suitable choice for gamers or those who favor a more responsive and less abrupt keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference; if someone prefers a more pronounced depth, they would likely gravitate towards the Cherry MX Orange, whereas those seeking a faster actuation might opt for the Wuque Studio option.
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 Silent Tactile comes in at $4.20 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
When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Orange switches have not been explicitly characterized, but it can be inferred that they produce a moderate sound profile typical of many linear switches. This means they will not be overly loud or soft, making them suitable for various environments. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches are designed for quiet operation, featuring a neutral sound profile that is ideal for office settings. Their precision-engineered stem railings offer a silent typing experience without sacrificing the crisp feedback that tactile switches are known for, thus ensuring that though they are quieter, they maintain a pleasant auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Orange switches are noted for providing a smooth experience, aligning with typical expectations for linear switches; however, their exact tactile character remains unspecified. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switches present a more nuanced feel. They are classified as medium tactile, providing a balanced amount of feedback that can be both invigorating and mild, thanks to their pronounced and yet approachable characteristics. This makes them an engaging option for typists who appreciate responsive feedback without overwhelming resistance or scratchiness.
In summary, while the Cherry MX Orange switches may offer a more straightforward linear experience with an undefined sound profile, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches excel in providing a quiet yet tactile typing experience, making them ideal for office use. The MX Orange is suited for those who prefer a smooth and linear action, whereas the WS Silent Tactile caters to individuals who value a balance of silent operation and moderate directionality in feel. Each switch has its own strengths, and personal preference will ultimately dictate which is suitable for a newcomer in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize a smooth and linear typing experience without any tactile bump, and you enjoy the idea of a switch that emphasizes a classic feel, the MX Orange is an excellent choice. It's particularly well-suited for gamers or typists who want rapid key presses without any tactile interruption or resistance. However, if you find yourself in an office environment or you regularly type in shared spaces where noise is a concern, the WS Silent Tactile switch would be the better option. Its medium-heavy actuation force combined with its unique, silent design makes it a fantastic choice for those who enjoy tactile feedback without the accompanying noise. The WS Silent Tactile offers the perfect balance of a responsive typing feel while minimizing disturbance to those around you. Ultimately, consider your typing style, environment, and how you prefer to experience your keyboard when making your decision.
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