Cherry MX Red vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between options that offer distinct tactile experiences. The Cherry MX Red is a beloved classic, praised for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, delivering a robust typing experience that captivates both gamers and typists alike. This linear switch is characterized by its "thocky," low-pitched auditory feedback, allowing for an engaging, yet not overly distracting typing environment. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ presents a modern alternative, crafted entirely from POM material, which contributes to a smooth keystroke and an equally satisfying "thock" sound signature. While both switches cater to users who prefer linear feedback, the MX Red leans toward a more traditional, weighty feel, whereas the WS POM+ emphasizes a buttery-smooth experience. Ultimately, your choice may hinge on whether you prioritize depth of sound and tactile weight or a sleek and seamless keystroke. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
pom
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Red switches and the Wuque Studio WS POM+, both switches employ distinct materials that contribute to their individual sound profiles. The Cherry MX Red features a nylon top and bottom housing, which is known for its softer plastic composition. This softness allows for better sound absorption, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is felt during typing. In contrast, the WS POM+ utilizes a Polyoxymethylene (POM) housing, which also produces a deeper sound but is distinctly characterized as having a unique and pleasing sound. While both types of housing contribute to a rich sound experience, the variations in material cause differences in the acoustic properties, with the nylon providing a more muted sound than the POM.
Both switches share similarities in their fundamental sound profile, yet the materials influence the individual characteristics of their acoustics. The nylon housing of the Cherry MX Red aims to create a duller and rounder sound, providing a full typing experience that absorbs impact noise well. Meanwhile, the POM housing of the WS POM+ produces a muted yet unique sound, allowing for a typing experience that some may find more refined. While both produce deeper sounds, the subtle nuances of each material lead to differing auditory experiences when typing, showcasing how the choice of housing material can distinctly impact the overall feel and sound of the switch.
Ultimately, regardless of the differences in materials, both the Cherry MX Red and the WS POM+ can deliver satisfying auditory experiences for typists. The soft nylon used in the MX Red and the POM in the WS POM+ can both produce muted acoustic properties that result in a pleasant typing experience. If one were to switch between these two, they would likely notice the varying feel and sound upon actuation and release, driven primarily by the unique contributions of their respective housing materials. Despite the differences, both switches offer a typing experience that emphasizes sound quality, with variations that cater to personal preferences in auditory feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Red linear switch to the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, both have an actuation force of 45 grams, indicating that they require the same amount of pressure to trigger a keystroke. This similarity means that users looking for a lightweight typing experience, suitable for extended usage like long workdays or gaming sessions, will find both switches similarly accommodating in terms of actuation. However, the WS POM+ differentiates itself with a bottom out force of 55 grams, which provides a more substantial feel when keys are fully pressed down—a feature that some users might prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Since the Cherry MX Red's bottom out force is unavailable, we cannot draw a direct comparison for this measurement. Nevertheless, it is clear that the WS POM+ switch is the heavier option overall due to its bottom out force, while both switches share the same actuation force, suggesting a comparable lightness in initial keypresses.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, the Cherry MX Red offers a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS POM+ has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference may appeal to different users based on their preferences: the MX Red's longer travel distance provides a more traditional and satisfying keypress experience, which might be favored by those who appreciate a deeper tactile sensation. Conversely, the WS POM+ is better suited for gamers seeking quicker response times due to its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, if you're looking for a more hearty depth, the Cherry MX Red would be the better choice, whereas if responsiveness is your priority, the WS POM+ would serve your needs more effectively.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
The Wuque Studio WS POM+ comes in at $3.90 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
The sound quality of the Cherry MX Red linear switch is characterized by a deep, rich "thock" that resonates with a slightly lower pitch, providing users with a satisfying auditory experience as they type. This sound profile, often described as thocky, gives the impression of a solid, robust keypress, contributing to the overall appeal of the switch. The richness of the sound can create an immersive typing atmosphere, which many users find satisfying. While the sound of the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switch is also noted for a deep, satisfying "thock," it’s important to remember that external factors such as the keyboard build, materials, and keycap choice also influence sound. Therefore, while both switches promise a fulfilling auditory signature, the specific experiences may vary based on their setup.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Red switch offers a textured experience that some users may perceive as a touch of friction during key presses. This can contribute a tactile quality that some typists appreciate, especially when they are accustomed to feeling a little resistance while typing. In contrast, the feel of the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switch is not detailed in the supported information, leaving room for curiosity about its tactile feedback and smoothness. Assuming the WS POM+ adheres to its promise of an unparalleled typing experience, one might expect a smoother keystroke comparable in pleasure to the stable and reliable feeling of the MX Red, although without specific descriptors, this remains speculative.
Combining the insights on sound and feel, both the Cherry MX Red and Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches present unique opportunities for linear switch enthusiasts. The Cherry MX Red offers a textured feel paired with a deep, rich sound that many typists appreciate. Meanwhile, the WS POM+ aims for a similarly deep sound signature while potentially providing a smooth keystroke experience. For newcomers, selecting between these switches may ultimately depend on personal preferences regarding texture and tactile resistance versus a potentially smoother experience, though both options promise to deliver enjoyable and engaging typing sessions.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, your choice should largely depend on your personal typing preferences and the experience you seek. If you appreciate a more traditional typing feel combined with a slightly heftier touch and a deeper sound profile, the Cherry MX Red is an excellent choice. Its rich "thock" sound adds an enjoyable auditory element to your keystrokes, making it ideal for those who enjoy a classic, robust typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a modern twist with a smoother, more consistent keystroke and a satisfying deep sound, the WS POM+ switch will serve you well. Its medium-light actuation force makes it easy to press without feeling cumbersome, and the buttery-smooth keystroke is great for marathon typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, consider what aspects of tactile feel and sound resonate with you; whether you lean towards the traditional weight and sonic depth of the MX Red, or the sleek, smooth performance of the WS POM+, you're set to enhance your typing experience.
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