Cherry MX Red vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Cherry MX Red and Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear are both linear switches that offer a unique typing experience. The MX Red is praised for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, providing a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switches by Wuque stand out for their innovative design that reduces switch noise without the use of silicone dampeners, resulting in a typing experience that is both quiet and precise. While the MX Red is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', the WS Silent Linear is described as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Muted', and 'Subdued'. Both switches have their own unique qualities and benefits, providing users with options based on their preferences. 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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Red and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear, both switches feature nylon top and bottom housings. The use of nylon in the housings of both switches results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. As a result, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and tactile feedback from both switches due to their shared nylon housing material.
However, while both the Cherry MX Red and Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches feature nylon housings that provide a similar sound profile, there may be subtle differences in the overall typing experience. The different shapes and designs of the housing components in each switch can impact the sound and feel when pressing down on the keys. The bottom housing, for example, may have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing can influence the sound when a key is released. These nuances in housing design could potentially result in slight variations in typing feel between the two switches.
Despite possible variations in typing feel, the use of nylon in both the Cherry MX Red and Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches ultimately yields comparable results in terms of sound profile and overall typing experience. The softer nature of nylon allows for a deeper and fuller sound when typing, creating a more pleasant and immersive typing experience for users of both switches. With these similarities in housing material, enthusiasts can expect to enjoy a similar level of satisfaction and performance from both the Cherry MX Red and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force of the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, it is evident that the MX Red is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams compared to the WS Silent Linear's unknown force. On the other hand, when looking at bottom out force, the WS Silent Linear is heavier with a force of 63.5 grams while the MX Red's bottom out force is unavailable. This means that the MX Red requires less force to trigger a keystroke, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions where a lighter touch is preferred. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, making it a better choice for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the WS Silent Linear switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the MX Red switch. A 0.5 mm may not seem like much, but it can make a difference in the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the WS Silent Linear switch due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper key press experience may opt for the MX Red switch with its slightly longer travel distance.Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to individual preference and the type of typing or gaming experience you're looking for. Despite their differences in travel distance, both switches offer a smooth and linear typing experience.
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 Silent Linear 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 Red linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience for users. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch offers a more neutral, muted, and subdued sound that minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. While the MX Red offers a more traditional mechanical keyboard sound, the WS Silent Linear provides a quieter and more tranquil typing experience, making it suitable for environments where noise reduction is a priority.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the MX Red is described as having a textured feel, which may provide some users with a noticeable friction when pressed. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear switch offers a mild and gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users. The WS Silent Linear switch forgoes the use of traditional silicone dampeners, providing a unique tactile sensation that prioritizes quiet operation without sacrificing responsiveness.
Overall, the Cherry MX Red and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The MX Red is known for its heftier feel and thocky sound profile, while the WS Silent Linear switch focuses on providing a quiet and precise typing experience with its innovative stem railings and cutouts. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Whether you prefer a deeper, more traditional mechanical keyboard sound like the MX Red or a quieter, more subdued typing experience like the WS Silent Linear, both switches offer quality performance that will satisfy users looking for linear switch options.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prioritize a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile while typing, the MX Red may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you value reducing switch noise without compromising on responsiveness and precision, the WS Silent Linear switches by Wuque Studio could be a great option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound profile, typing experience, and noise level. Consider what features matter most to you and choose the switch that aligns best with your needs and preferences.
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