Cherry MX Silent Red vs. Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Cherry MX Silent Red and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear are both linear mechanical keyboard switches offering unique features that cater to different preferences. The MX Silent Red provides a quieter typing experience compared to its counterparts, making it an ideal choice for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear offers a smooth and high-pitched typing experience with maximum RGB lighting customization. While the MX Silent Red is described as 'Muted', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured', the WS Aurora Clear is labeled as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished'. These general characteristics may influence your decision, 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
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Double-staged stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Cherry MX Silent Red and Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches have housing materials that significantly impact the sound profile of the switches. The MX Silent Red features a nylon top and bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the WS Aurora Clear utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that generates a sharper and crisper sound profile because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that enhances clarity and resonance. The choice between these two materials ultimately comes down to personal preference for sound and typing feel.
Additionally, the bottom housing of each switch plays a crucial role in the overall typing experience. The MX Silent Red's nylon bottom housing contributes to the switch's deeper and fuller sound profile, while the WS Aurora Clear's UHWMPE bottom housing offers a bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. By having different bottom housing materials, each switch is able to provide a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences. For those who enjoy a softer sound profile, the MX Silent Red may be more appealing, while the WS Aurora Clear offers a brighter and more resonant typing experience.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Cherry MX Silent Red and Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches, both options aim to enhance the overall sound profile and typing experience for users. While the materials may lead to distinct sound profiles, they both prioritize creating a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound profile with nylon housing or a sharper and crisper sound with polycarbonate housing, both switches offer unique benefits that cater to individual preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference for typing feel, sound profile, and aesthetic preferences.
Weight
In comparing the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch to the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, it is evident that the MX Silent Red is lighter in terms of actuation force at 45 grams compared to the WS Aurora Clear's 53 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the WS Aurora Clear is heavier at 63.5 grams, while the bottom out force of the MX Silent Red is unknown. The lighter actuation force of the MX Silent Red may appeal to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, while the heavier actuation and bottom out force of the WS Aurora Clear may be favored by individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance, making them popular choices for those looking for quicker response times. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer switches with shorter travel distances for increased speed during gameplay. However, individuals who enjoy a more pronounced keypress may prefer the WS Aurora Clear with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
The Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear comes in at $8.00 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
When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear offer significantly different experiences. The MX Silent Red is known for its muted and thocky sound profile, providing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to traditional mechanical switches. In contrast, the WS Aurora Clear delivers a high-pitched sound, giving a sharp and crisp auditory feedback with each keystroke. While the MX Silent Red is ideal for noise-sensitive environments, the WS Aurora Clear caters to those who prefer a more distinct and vibrant typing sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the overall sound profile desired by the user.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Silent Red offers a textured typing experience, which may appeal to users who prefer switches with a noticeable friction when pressed. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear provides a buttery and polished feel, resulting in a smooth and refined keystroke experience. Additionally, the WS Aurora Clear is described as mild, offering a gentle typing sensation that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. Whether one prefers a textured or buttery feel will depend on personal preference and typing style, as both switches offer unique tactile experiences.
Overall, while the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switches differ in sound and feel, both provide quality performance and customizable options. Whether you prioritize a quieter typing experience with the MX Silent Red or a high-pitched sound profile with the WS Aurora Clear, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their own unique characteristics. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will depend on individual preferences in sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, consider your preferences for noise level and typing experience. If you prioritize a quieter typing experience in a noise-sensitive environment, the MX Silent Red would be the ideal choice with its muted, thocky, and low-pitched sound profiles. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, high-pitched typing experience with maximum RGB lighting customization, the WS Aurora Clear would be the better option with its buttery, mild, and polished feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard.
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