Cherry MX Purple RGB vs. Wuque Studio WS Brown
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between options that offer unique tactile experiences suited for different typing needs. The Cherry MX Purple RGB switch is celebrated for its refined tactile feedback, featuring a short, medium-strength bump that enhances the typing experience, making it ideal for users who appreciate a precise and engaging feel while coding or gaming. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Brown switch presents a delightful blend of familiarity and innovation, characterized by its medium-light actuation force that provides an exceptional balance of responsiveness and comfort—perfect for long typing sessions without causing fatigue. Both switches embody the tactile feedback that many keyboard enthusiasts crave, yet they cater to distinct preferences in terms of actuation strength and auditory feedback. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs most effectively.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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 double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Wuque Studio WS Brown, both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, making them quite similar in terms of material properties. Nylon is a classic choice in switch design, known for its ability to create a rich and fuller sound profile when typing. The inherent softness of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, leading to a deeper and more rounded auditory experience. Therefore, both the MX Purple RGB and WS Brown switches produce similar acoustic characteristics, allowing users to enjoy a satisfying typing experience regardless of which switch they choose.
While the materials used are the same, the overall construction and feel of each switch can result in different typing experiences. The Cherry MX Purple RGB is engineered for a specific tactile feedback and actuation force, which can provide a distinctive feel compared to the WS Brown's design nuances. Even though both switches share the nylon material, differences in the internal mechanics and spring properties can lead to variations in the bottom-out sound and tactile response. Consequently, while the sound profile is a commonality due to the nylon composition, the subjective experience of typing may differ slightly for each switch based on their unique designs and intended uses.
Ultimately, the similarity in nylon housing for both the MX Purple RGB and WS Brown emphasizes how vital material choice is in keyboard switches. Both housings contribute to a duller sound overall, enabling a more muted sound feedback, which can enhance the typing experience for users who prefer quieter keystrokes. Users can expect a similar depth and richness in sound from both switches; however, the choice between them may come down to other factors such as tactile feedback, actuation point, or personal preference in key feel, demonstrating that even identical materials can deliver diverse performance outcomes in practice.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, we see a notable difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cherry MX Purple RGB features an actuation force of 45 grams, which provides a nice tactile feedback without being overly heavy, making it suitable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. However, its bottom out force is unspecified, leaving a gap in comparison. In contrast, the WS Brown has a bottom out force of 55 grams, classified as medium-light, providing a slightly heavier feel at the bottom of the keystroke. Unfortunately, the actuation force for the WS Brown is not available, leaving us unable to compare this aspect directly. Based on the available information, the Cherry MX Purple RGB is the lighter option in terms of actuation force, while the WS Brown has a measurable bottom out force indicating a more pronounced feedback when keys are fully pressed down. For users who prefer a lighter switch for extended use, the Cherry MX Purple RGB would be the better choice, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience might gravitate toward the WS Brown.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, a notable distinction emerges. The Cherry MX Purple RGB features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the more traditional depth that many users appreciate for its tactile feedback. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Brown switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This reduction, while minimal, means that the WS Brown switch offers a quicker response, making it potentially more appealing to gamers or those who favor rapid keypresses. Consequently, if you're looking for a more pronounced tactile experience, the Cherry MX Purple RGB would be the better option, whereas the WS Brown could be ideal for those who prefer a slightly quicker keystroke without sacrificing too much depth. Overall, while both switches cater to different preferences, the Cherry MX Purple RGB is the longer option, while the WS Brown is the shorter one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
The Wuque Studio WS Brown 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
When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch produces a refined auditory experience, notably characterized by a subtle, satisfying tactile bump that can enhance the overall typing sensation. Though the specific acoustic qualities are not detailed, Cherry MX switches are typically praised for their relatively subdued sound profile compared to other types, making them suitable for both home and office environments. In contrast, the WS Brown switch is regarded for its delightful auditory experience, known for its familiar sound profile that emerges from its nylon housing and POM stem combination. While the WS Brown may have a slightly more pronounced auditory feedback due to its innovative design, the nuanced differences will often depend on the specific keyboard build and keycap material used.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Purple RGB is designed to offer a refined tactile experience with a short, medium-strength bump that relevantly engages the typist without causing excessive fatigue. This switch is intended for those who favor a precise tactile feedback that signals actuation without being overly harsh. Meanwhile, the WS Brown switch delivers a medium-light actuation force that balances responsiveness with comfort, making it an excellent option for prolonged typing sessions. This switch is crafted to reduce strain, offering a smooth and pleasant typing experience that newcomers often find reassuringly familiar.
Overall, both the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switches provide distinct yet enjoyable typing experiences. While the MX Purple RGB emphasizes a refined bump and a possibly quieter operation, the WS Brown offers a harmonious blend of responsiveness and comfort with a familiar sound. Ultimately, both switches can cater to users looking for tactile feedback, and while subjective preferences will vary, the overall quality of typing performance will harmoniously satisfy different typists' needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between Cherry MX Purple RGB and Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switches largely hinges on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you seek a refined tactile experience with a concise bump that enhances both typing and gaming performance, then the Cherry MX Purple RGB might be the ideal choice for you. Its design caters particularly to gamers and typists who appreciate a responsive feel without too much force, allowing for quick keystrokes without the strain of heavier switches. On the other hand, if you prioritize comfort during extended typing sessions, the WS Brown switches provide a medium-light actuation force that promotes fatigue-free typing while maintaining a satisfying tactile feedback. Their familiar auditory experience, combined with their innovative structure, makes them a great fit for anyone who enjoys a pleasant sound while they type. Ultimately, your decision should be driven by whether you value a lively yet refined tactile sensation or a comfortable, yet slightly heavier typing feedback as you navigate between gaming and productivity tasks.
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