Cherry MX Silent Red vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the distinctions between the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl offer intriguing alternatives for different typing experiences. The Cherry MX Silent Red is widely appreciated for its compatibility with noise-sensitive environments, providing a satisfying yet muted typing experience reminiscent of the popular MX Red, but without the click. Its slightly heftier feel and low-pitched, thocky sound profile make it an excellent choice for those who seek a smooth and quiet operation while typing or gaming. In contrast, the WS Pearl switches stand out with their innovative ball-bearing design, which significantly reduces friction during keystrokes, resulting in an incredibly smooth typing sensation. Characterized by a medium-high pitch, the WS Pearls deliver not only a unique auditory experience but also a distinct tactile satisfaction that can enhance the overall typing flow. Both switches cater to specific preferences, making them appealing options for different users. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that is right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
16mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Silent Red and Wuque Studio WS Pearl both utilize nylon for their switch housings, which plays a significant role in shaping the typing experience. The choice of nylon as a material is noteworthy, as it is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. This commonality means that users can expect similar acoustic qualities from both switches. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a rounder and more muted auditory experience. This characteristic can be particularly appealing to those who prefer a quieter typing environment, as both switches will likely minimize any harsh sound while typing.
In terms of construction, both switches feature nylon in their top and bottom housings. This consistency amplifies the benefits associated with nylon, ensuring that both the bottom-out action when pressing the key and the sound upon releasing it provide a harmonious and cohesive typing experience. Since both switches are built from the same material, the impact on the overall performance is unified; the experience you get when typing on the Cherry MX Silent Red will be quite similar to what you can expect from the WS Pearl in terms of feel and sound. This shared housing material reinforces the effectiveness of nylon as the primary choice for enthusiasts looking to achieve a specific acoustic environment.
Despite both switches using the same housing material, the nuances in their design and construction may lead to slight differences in performance and user experience. For instance, if there were differences in the switch mechanism or stem design, these could affect the tactile feedback or the actuation force of each switch. However, since both the MX Silent Red and WS Pearl capitalize on nylon's characteristics, users can still anticipate a satisfying typing experience with a soft touch and a muted sound profile. Overall, the shared use of nylon means that regardless of any design variations, the fundamental acoustic qualities and typing experience will align closely between these two popular switch options.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Cherry MX Silent Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the WS Pearl is significantly lighter at 30 grams for actuation. This means that the WS Pearl is better suited for those who prefer a lighter touch, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In terms of bottom out force, the WS Pearl has a concrete measurement of 58 grams, while the bottom out force for the MX Silent Red is unknown. Without that information, we can't definitively compare their bottoming out experiences. However, with the WS Pearl’s heavier bottom out force, some users may find the underlying feedback more substantial, appealing to those who enjoy a stronger typing sensation. Overall, the Cherry MX Silent Red is the heavier option in terms of actuation force, while the WS Pearl provides a lighter actuation, contributing to a difference in user experience preferences.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch features a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference of 0.2 mm may seem minor, yet it can influence the feel and responsiveness of the switches. With the MX Silent Red, users may appreciate a more pronounced keystroke, which could provide a more satisfying tactile experience, making it suitable for those who enjoy a deeper typing sensation. Conversely, the WS Pearl, with its shorter travel distance, may cater better to gamers seeking rapid response times, allowing for quicker key presses and potentially improved performance. Therefore, while both switches are linear and provide smooth key presses, the Cherry MX Silent Red offers a longer, more substantial travel distance compared to the Wuque Studio WS Pearl.
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 Pearl comes in at $6.00 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 offers a unique auditory profile characterized by its muted, thocky, and low-pitched qualities. This switch produces a softer sound that minimizes typical mechanical clatter, making it an excellent choice for shared workspaces or quiet environments. The deep and rich thock produced upon actuation provides a satisfying acoustic feedback without being disruptive. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Pearl does not have specific sound descriptors available, but it's important to note that the overall sound can be heavily influenced by the keyboard build and materials used, as well as keycap selection.
Regarding feel, the MX Silent Red is known for its slightly textured sensation, which may provide a tactile feedback that some users find appealing. The noticeable friction adds a layer of engagement during typing. However, the WS Pearl features ball-bearings designed to reduce friction, delivering a remarkably smooth keystroke that stands in contrast to the textured feel of the Silent Red. This smoothness might appeal to users who prioritize a gliding typing experience over tactile feedback.
In summary, both the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches cater to different user preferences. The Silent Red excels with its quiet operation and slightly textured feel, making it great for noise-sensitive settings where a rich, low-pitched sound might be desired. Meanwhile, the WS Pearl promises an effortlessly smooth keystroke thanks to its unique ball-bearing mechanism, although its sound characteristics remain unspecified. Choosing between these switches will largely depend on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback; with proper consideration, users can achieve a satisfying typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch ultimately depends on your specific typing needs and preferences. If you find yourself in a noise-sensitive environment or share your workspace with others, the Cherry MX Silent Red is an excellent choice. It maintains a slightly heftier feel while ensuring a remarkably quiet experience, making it perfect for late-night typing or office use where sound can be disruptive. On the other hand, if you prioritize a uniquely smooth typing experience and enjoy a slightly higher resistance with a satisfying medium bottom-out force, the WS Pearl switch is tailored for you. Its innovative ball-bearing mechanism not only reduces friction but also enhances the overall feel, creating a silky-smooth keystroke that many users find irresistible. In essence, the MX Silent Red excels in noise reduction while delivering a familiar Cherry MX feel, whereas the WS Pearl shines with an exceptionally smooth actuation and a medium sound profile—choosing one over the other will hinge on whether you value quiet operation or an ultra-smooth typing experience.
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