Cherry MX Silent Red vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Wuque Studio WS Onion both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The MX Silent Red is a linear switch that is beloved for its silent operation, making it perfect for those in noise-sensitive environments. It maintains the slightly heavier feel of the MX Red while providing a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Onion linear switch by Wuque Studio boasts a buttery smooth keystroke feel and a neutral sound profile, thanks to its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. While the MX Silent Red is categorized as 'Muted', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured', the WS Onion is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Buttery', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, 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
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
WS CL635 Gold Plated Stainless Spring
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Silent Red and the Wuque Studio WS Onion both offer unique qualities in their housing materials. The MX Silent Red utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic that absorbs sound effectively. In contrast, the WS Onion features a polycarbonate top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is clearer and more resonant. While the MX Silent Red's nylon bottom housing contributes to the overall sound profile in a similar manner to the top housing, the WS Onion's nylon bottom housing also offers a deep and full sound, reflecting the classic qualities of nylon in switch housing.
The aesthetic appeal of the housing materials also sets the MX Silent Red and WS Onion apart. The clear polycarbonate top housing of the WS Onion allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the visual experience for users who enjoy customizable lighting effects. In contrast, the solid nylon housing of the MX Silent Red offers a more traditional and understated appearance. Both materials have their own unique visual appeal, catering to different preferences in terms of style and design.
Overall, the choice between the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Wuque Studio WS Onion comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile, aesthetic preference, and overall typing experience. Whether you prefer the softer, duller sound of nylon in the MX Silent Red or the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate in the WS Onion, both switches offer a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences. Additionally, the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switch adds an extra layer of complexity to consider when making a decision between these two options.
Weight
The Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch is lighter in terms of actuation force, requiring 45 grams to trigger a keystroke compared to the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, which does not disclose its actuation force. However, in terms of bottom out force, the WS Onion is heavier with a force of 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience compared to the Cherry MX Silent Red, which does not have a specified bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the MX Silent Red would be the better option for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the WS Onion would appeal to those who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more pronounced typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7mm, which is shorter compared to the 4mm travel distance of the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch. The MX Silent Red offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the WS Onion provides a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, offering a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a bit more tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with the MX Silent Red being the shorter option and the WS Onion being the longer one.
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 Onion has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Onion for $5.53.
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 Cherry MX Silent Red switch provides a muted and thocky experience with a low-pitched tone, making it ideal for those looking for a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Onion switch offers a neutral sound profile, suitable for various situations without being too loud or too soft. When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is described as textured, offering a slightly rougher keystroke compared to the WS Onion's buttery and polished feel, providing a smoother and more effortless typing sensation.
Taking all the available information into account, it is clear that the Cherry MX Silent Red and Wuque Studio WS Onion switches offer distinct qualities in sound and feel. While the MX Silent Red excels in providing a quieter typing experience with its muted and thocky sound, the WS Onion stands out with its buttery and polished feel, offering a more refined and smooth keystroke sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference in sound and feel, but rest assured that both switches will deliver a satisfying typing experience in their respective ways.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a quiet and satisfying typing experience in noise-sensitive environments, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you are seeking a buttery smooth keystroke with a crisp and responsive feel, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch might be more up your alley. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for sound and feel, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. Consider what factors are most important to you in a switch and choose accordingly for the best typing experience tailored to your needs.
Mentioned in this article
