Cherry MX Red vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that offer unique characteristics are the Cherry MX Red and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile. The Cherry MX Red is a linear switch, known 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 Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile is a tactile switch, ideal for office environments, offering a medium tactility with superior noise reduction due to precision-engineered stem railings that ensure a silent yet crisp typing experience. While the MX Red provides a 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured' typing experience, the WS Silent Tactile is categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Muted'. Both switches have their unique strengths and appeal to different preferences and needs. 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
While both the Cherry MX Red and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches utilize nylon as their housing material, they exhibit similar characteristics when it comes to sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows for a deeper and fuller sound to be emitted when typing, creating a more rounded and dull sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a more satisfying typing experience for users of both switches, as the nylon material effectively absorbs sound, reducing any potential noise created during typing.
Despite the similarities in housing material, the Cherry MX Red and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches may showcase differences in their overall sound profile due to their unique design and structure. The placement of the nylon top and bottom housing in each switch can impact the sound and feel when typing. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the key, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing the key. These subtle differences in housing placement can influence the overall typing experience and may appeal to different preferences among users.
In conclusion, both the Cherry MX Red and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their nylon housing material. The deeper and fuller sound profile produced by the softer nature of nylon enhances the overall typing feel for users of both switches. While differences in housing placement may result in slight variations in sound and feel, the overall impact of the nylon housing material remains consistent in providing a more subdued and rounded sound during typing. Ultimately, users can expect a similar typing experience with either switch due to their shared use of nylon as the primary housing material.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, some key differences can be observed. The MX Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with minimal effort. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile has an unknown actuation force, but a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. This difference in weight may cater to different preferences, with lighter switches being preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming, while heavier switches may offer a more satisfying typing feel for those seeking a stronger push. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The MX Red switch offers a more traditional travel distance, while the WS Silent Tactile switch caters to those who prefer a slightly shorter keystroke. Gamers looking for faster response times may lean towards the WS Silent Tactile switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may prefer the Cherry MX Red switch. Ultimately, both switches offer a different typing experience based on their travel distances, so choosing between the two will depend on personal preference.
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 Tactile 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
In terms of sound, the MX Red switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched characteristics, providing a deep and satisfying sound profile when typing. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch offers a more neutral and muted sound, making it ideal for environments where noise reduction is a priority. The choice between these two switches would depend on personal preference for sound, with the MX Red offering a more traditional mechanical keyboard sound, while the WS Silent Tactile provides a quieter typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the MX Red switch is described as textured, providing users with a tactile feedback that some may find satisfying. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch is accented and invigorating, offering a medium level of tactile feedback without being too overwhelming. The mild nature of the WS Silent Tactile switch ensures a gentle typing experience that is suitable for a wide range of users. Ultimately, the decision between these switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel, with the MX Red offering a textured experience and the WS Silent Tactile providing a more invigorating tactile sensation.
Overall, the Cherry MX Red and Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The MX Red provides a deeper and slightly heftier typing experience with a thocky sound profile, while the WS Silent Tactile offers a quieter and more tactile typing experience with an invigorating feel. Both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience, but the choice between them would depend on whether the user prioritizes sound, feel, or a balance of both. Ultimately, with either switch, you can expect a high-quality mechanical keyboard experience that meets your typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Cherry MX Red linear switch or the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, it ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and typing environment. If you prefer a linear switch with no tactile bump and a slightly heftier feel, along with a deep, rich sound profile, the Cherry MX Red would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with medium tactility, superior noise reduction, and a silent yet crisp typing experience, then the WS Silent Tactile switch would be more suitable for office environments or if you simply prefer a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique features and benefits, so it's essential to consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision.
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