Cherry MX Purple RGB vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the tactile Cherry MX Purple RGB and the smooth Wuque Studio WS Pearl present two distinct options, each catering to unique preferences. The Cherry MX Purple offers a refined tactile experience featuring a medium-strength tactile bump, ideal for users who enjoy feedback with each keystroke, making it a popular choice for typists and gamers alike who seek a more engaged typing experience. In contrast, the WS Pearl’s innovative use of ball-bearings significantly reduces friction during keystrokes, resulting in a remarkably smooth typing experience with a medium-high pitched sound signature, appealing to those who favor a fluid and uninterrupted flow. While both switches have their advantages—one emphasizing tactile feedback and the other smoothness—they serve different needs based on your typing style and activity. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
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
16mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches, it is notable that both models utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This commonality brings about similar acoustic properties, as nylon is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. Typing on both switches, whether the MX Purple RGB or the WS Pearl, will produce a sound that is characterized by its warmth and rounded quality. The inherent softness of nylon allows for greater sound absorption compared to harder plastics, which minimizes high-frequency noise and enhances the overall typing experience.
In terms of tactile response and acoustic feedback, both switches yield a similar experience due to their identical choice of material throughout both housings. While some switches may have varying housing materials that contribute differently to sound and feel, the use of nylon in both the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl creates uniformity. The bottom housing, which significantly affects the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback, provides users with a consistent feel across both models. Therefore, users can expect a cohesive performance when bottoming out, characterized by a deeper sound profile.
Ultimately, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches might appeal to different users for various reasons—such as brand preference or key feel—their shared nylon construction ensures that typing on either switch will evoke a similar auditory and tactile experience. This alignment in housing materials solidifies their status as solid contenders in the mechanical switch market, delivering a robust experience for users who prioritize both sound quality and feel in their keyboards. Such consistency in material choice allows users to find comfort and familiarity across different devices, enabling a seamless transition from one keyboard to another.
Weight
The Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch offer notably different actuation and bottom out forces, affecting their overall typing experience. The Cherry MX Purple RGB has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the WS Pearl is lighter, requiring just 30 grams to actuate a keystroke. This lighter actuation of the WS Pearl is more suitable for users who prefer less effort when typing, ideal for long work sessions or extensive gaming. In contrast, the MX Purple's heavier actuation could appeal to those who favor a more substantial feel and tactile feedback while typing. When it comes to bottom out force, the WS Pearl has a defined bottom out force of 58 grams, while the bottom out force of the MX Purple RGB is unspecified. This suggests that users of the WS Pearl will experience a clearer endpoint when pressing keys all the way down, which may enhance typing accuracy. Overall, the WS Pearl is the lighter option, while the MX Purple RGB presents a heavier typing experience, catering to different user preferences in keyboard feel.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing a key, the MX Purple RGB offers a more pronounced depth that some users may find satisfying, especially those who prefer a tactile feedback and hearty feel during typing or gaming. In contrast, the WS Pearl's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times and a more immediate actuation, allowing for faster key presses. Ultimately, choosing between these switches comes down to personal preference; those looking for a deeper, more substantial keypress will prefer the Cherry MX Purple, while those prioritizing speed might lean towards the Wuque Studio WS Pearl.
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 Pearl comes in at $6.00 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 Purple RGB switches produce a crisp and punchy sound profile that is characteristic of tactile switches. This sound is emphasized by the tactile bump, providing audible feedback that many users find satisfying. On the other hand, the WS Pearl switches have a medium-high pitched sound signature, which is a result of the smooth keystrokes achieved through the use of ball-bearings. While both switches produce distinct audio experiences, the MX Purple RGB's tactile click is more pronounced compared to the softer, more fluid sound of the WS Pearl, offering a different auditory feedback depending on user preference.
When discussing feel, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches are recognized for their well-balanced tactile experience, with a noticeable yet refined bump that allows users to confidently register key presses without bottoming out excessively. This tactile feedback is ideal for typing and gaming, as it strikes a good balance between responsiveness and Comfort. In contrast, the WS Pearl switches are lauded for their incredibly smooth keystrokes, largely due to the incorporation of ball-bearings, which significantly reduces friction. This results in a glide-like experience that is different from the tactile feedback of the MX Purple RGB; instead of a pronounced bump, the sensation is akin to effortlessly gliding your fingers across the keys.
Considering all factors, both the Cherry MX Purple RGB and Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches cater to different preferences when it comes to sound and feel. If you prefer a tactile experience with audible feedback, the Cherry MX Purple RGB might be the ideal choice, while those seeking a smoother, more fluid action would appreciate the WS Pearl. Ultimately, these differences allow users to select a switch that best fits their typing or gaming style, making either option a compelling choice based on the desired experience.
Conclusion
To summarize, when choosing between the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, your decision should reflect your typing preferences and intended usage. If you prefer tactile feedback that offers a refined experience, the Cherry MX Purple switch is an excellent choice, especially for typing or gaming where you want to feel each keystroke without excessive noise. The tactile bump is satisfying yet not overwhelming, making it suitable for both typing and gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smoother experience with minimal friction and a more fluid keystroke, the WS Pearl is likely the better option. Its unique ball-bearing design allows for incredibly smooth key presses and a medium-bottom-out force that can enhance your overall typing experience, especially for prolonged use or high-speed typing. Additionally, the WS Pearl offers a unique sound profile that may appeal to those who enjoy a quieter workflow. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value tactile feedback or a seamless, linear typing experience, so consider the types of tasks you engage in most frequently to help guide your decision.
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