Cherry MX Silent Red vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Wuque Studio WS Red mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, there are some key differences to consider. The MX Silent Red offers a quieter typing experience without sacrificing the satisfying feel of the classic MX Red switch. On the other hand, the WS Red provides a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force for those who prefer a bit more weight to their keystrokes. While the MX Silent Red is known for its muted, thocky, low-pitched, and textured feel, the WS Red is characterized by its double-stage spring design. 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
67g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Wuque Studio WS Red use nylon as their top and bottom housing material, resulting in a similar typing experience for users. The softer nature of nylon helps absorb sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches. This means that both switches will produce a duller and rounder sound compared to switches using harder plastics for their housing.
While both switches share the use of nylon for their housing material, they may differ in other aspects such as design or durability. The Cherry MX Silent Red is known for its silent operation, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red may offer a different typing feel or actuation force, catering to a different user preference. Additionally, the design of the switches may impact their overall performance and longevity, with one switch potentially being more durable than the other.
Ultimately, the choice between the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Wuque Studio WS Red will come down to personal preference and specific typing needs. Both switches offer the benefits of nylon housing material, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing. However, users may find differences in the overall typing experience, actuation force, or design that make one switch more suitable for their individual preferences. Regardless of the choice, the nylon housing material ensures a consistent sound profile and typing feel for users of both switches.
Weight
The Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the WS Red switch has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, giving it a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Cherry MX Silent Red, which is ideal for longer typing sessions or extended gaming. On the other hand, users who prefer a stronger push feel may lean towards the WS Red for a more tactile typing experience. In terms of actuation force, the Cherry MX Silent Red provides a clear indication of the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the WS Red's actuation force is unspecified. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch is 3.7 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. While the difference between the two distances is minimal, the WS Red has a slightly longer travel distance than the MX Silent Red. In general, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance offers a more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a deeper feel. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing 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 Red comes in at $3.50 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
The MX Silent Red and WS Red switches offer different experiences when it comes to sound and feel. The MX Silent Red provides a muted and low-pitched sound profile, ensuring a quieter typing experience suitable for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the WS Red switch offers a classic sound signature with a touch of weight to each keystroke due to its heavier actuation force. When it comes to feel, the MX Silent Red is described as having a textured sensation when pressed, which may cater to users who prefer a bit of friction. Unfortunately, information on the feel of the WS Red switch is not available.
Overall, if you are looking for a quieter typing experience with subtle texture, the MX Silent Red switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a bouncier and more substantial typing feel along with a classic sound profile, the WS Red switch may be the better option. Keep in mind that personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the right switch, so trying out both options firsthand would be the best way to determine which one suits your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that provides a silent typing experience in a noise-sensitive environment, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. The MX Silent Red offers a slightly heftier feel compared to the classic MX Red switch, but with the added benefit of operating silently. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force that adds weight to each keystroke, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch would be more suitable for you. The WS Red features a 22mm double-stage spring for a satisfying and substantial typing feel. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a quiet typing experience or a heavier actuation force.
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