Cherry MX Purple RGB vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Purple RGB and Wuque Studio WS Yellow stand out as two distinct options catering to different typing preferences. The Cherry MX Purple RGB is heralded for its refined tactile experience, providing a short, medium-strength bump that satisfies users who enjoy a tactile response, ideal for typists and gamers alike who relish feedback on their keystrokes. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches embrace a linear design, engineered with a 22mm double-stage spring that results in a smooth and effortless typing experience, perfect for those who prefer minimal resistance without any tactile interruptions. While the MX Purple appeals to those who appreciate a pronounced feedback mechanism, the WS Yellow captivates users who desire a fluid and quiet keypress. Both switches are crafted with care, yet they cater to very different preferences in terms of tactile feedback and acoustics. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
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
The housing materials of the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow both feature nylon in their top and bottom components, which highlights a shared lineage in their design philosophy. Nylon is renowned as a classic switch housing material, known for its ability to produce a richer and deeper sound profile during typing. This quality arises from nylon's relatively softer plastic nature, which effectively absorbs sound compared to harder plastic alternatives. Consequently, both switches are likely to generate a similar auditory experience characterized by a duller, rounder sound, making them appealing for users who prioritize acoustics in their mechanical keyboards.
Despite the identical choice of nylon for both the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the WS Yellow, their sound profiles and tactile feedback may still differ subtly due to the arrangement of their internal components. The top housing predominantly influences the auditory experience when releasing a key, while the bottom housing contributes significantly to the sound and feel when the key bottoms out. As both switches utilize nylon throughout, this consistent material choice ensures that, irrespective of possible variations in their internal mechanisms or spring characteristics, you'll experience a cohesive and enjoyable typing sound across both models.
Moreover, the shared properties of nylon in both the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the WS Yellow underline how the choice of housing material may lead to comparable performance outcomes, despite any potential differences in key feel or actuation force. Both switches are engineered to deliver a satisfying typing experience, enhanced by the muffled acoustics that nylon provides. This gives users of either switch confidence that they will enjoy a fulfilling tactile feedback and auditory profile, making them well-suited for a variety of typing tasks, whether for work or gaming. In essence, the nylon construction ensures a harmonious experience, emphasizing the deep sound signature typical of quality mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces highlight distinct user experiences. The Cherry MX Purple RGB has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the actuation force for the WS Yellow is unknown, meaning we cannot directly compare their actuation forces. Regarding bottom out force, the WS Yellow is stated to have a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB's bottom out force is unknown. Therefore, at least in terms of bottom out force, the WS Yellow is the heavier option, which could be preferable for users seeking a more substantial typing experience. Conversely, the Cherry MX Purple RGB’s lighter actuation force may appeal to those looking for ease during extensive typing or gaming sessions. If the actuation force of the WS Yellow were known and matched that of the Cherry MX Purple RGB, users could expect similar results in terms of responsiveness while experiencing a difference in how the switches feel when fully pressed down.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, we see a clear difference. The Cherry MX Purple RGB features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the traditional standard and provides a deeper, more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the WS Yellow has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm, catering to a trend that favors more responsive actuation, especially among gamers who appreciate quicker key presses for faster response times. Consequently, if you're looking for more significant depth and tactile feedback, the Cherry MX Purple is the better choice, while the WS Yellow might appeal to those who prefer a quicker, more agile feel. Overall, the Purple RGB's 4 mm travel distance makes it the longer option, whereas the WS Yellow's 3.8 mm distance provides a bit more responsiveness.
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 Yellow 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 tends to produce a distinct auditory profile characterized by a moderate level of noise, thanks to its tactile mechanism. This gives it a pronounced clickity sound during keystrokes, which can enhance the typing experience for some users who appreciate feedback through sound. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch is known for its familiar sound signature, providing a quieter typing experience that allows for smooth and unobtrusive keystrokes. Since sound perception can vary significantly based on the type of keyboard and keycaps used, both switches can yield satisfying acoustics in their respective contexts but cater to differing sound preferences—one being more tactile and clicky while the other remains more subdued.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch offers a refined tactile experience with a medium-strength bump that allows users to feel the actuation point distinctly while typing. This tactile feedback can lead to greater typing accuracy and a more engaging interaction with the keyboard. Contrastingly, the WS Yellow linear switch provides a creamy and polished typing feel, marked by a smooth and buttery experience with very minimal resistance. Its lightweight build and the unique 22mm double-stage spring contribute to an effortless sensation, allowing fingers to glide smoothly across the keys. This makes the WS Yellow well-suited for users who prioritize a fluid typing experience over tactile feedback.
In conclusion, while both the Cherry MX Purple RGB and Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches cater to different preferences, they each bring unique qualities to the table. The MX Purple RGB excels in providing tactile feedback with a distinctive sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy auditory and physical feedback while typing. In contrast, the WS Yellow offers a smooth, creamy, and polished feel that enhances typing fluidity and comfort, perfect for users seeking a more effortless experience. Ultimately, your choice between these switches comes down to your personal preferences in typing sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, your intended use and personal preferences should be your guiding factors. If you appreciate tactile feedback while typing and enjoy that distinctive bump under your fingers, the MX Purple RGB would be your ideal choice. It's designed for those who want an engaging typing experience with a noticeable tactile response, making it suitable for both gaming and typing tasks where you want to feel each key press. Conversely, if you prefer a smooth, fluid keystroke and are looking for a more effortless typing experience, the WS Yellow would serve you better. Its creamy and polished feel, combined with a medium-light actuation force, allows your fingers to glide over the keys with minimal resistance, perfect for extended typing sessions or when speed is your goal. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize tactile feedback or a buttery-smooth keystroke, so consider your typical keyboard activities to make the best decision.
Mentioned in this article
