Cherry MX Silent Red vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Silent Red, a linear switch, to the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile, a tactile switch, we find that both offer unique benefits for different preferences. The MX Silent Red provides a satisfying typing experience with a significantly quieter sound profile, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switches offer a medium tactility with superior noise reduction, delivering a silent yet crisp typing experience. While the MX Silent Red is characterized by its muted, thocky, low-pitched, and textured qualities, the WS Silent Tactile is known for its accented, invigorating, neutral, mild, and muted features. Each switch has its own strengths and appeals to different users based on their preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal 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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for both their top and bottom housings. The use of nylon in both switches allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and ability to absorb sound effectively. As a result, typing on switches with nylon housings produces a duller and rounder sound, creating a more pleasant typing experience for users.
While both switches share the same housing material, the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile may still offer slight variations in sound and feel due to potential differences in design and construction. The qualities of the nylon top housing in each switch will impact the sound when a key is released, while the nylon bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. These subtle differences in housing design may result in a unique typing experience for users depending on their preferences for key feel and sound.
Ultimately, the similarities in housing materials between the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile suggest that users can expect similar results in terms of sound profile and typing experience when using either switch. Both switches provide a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the nylon housing materials and offer a more muted and rounder sound compared to harder plastic housings. Whether choosing the Cherry MX Silent Red or the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile, users can anticipate a comfortable and satisfying typing experience with the benefits of nylon housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences for users. The Cherry MX Silent Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to type for longer periods without fatigue. However, it does not provide information on the bottom out force. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile has a higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches provide a silent typing experience, but the MX Silent Red is lighter in terms of actuation force, while the WS Silent Tactile is heavier in terms of bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, with the WS Silent Tactile being slightly shorter. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the WS Silent Tactile, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the MX Silent Red with its slightly longer travel distance. Overall, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, providing users with a responsive typing or gaming experience.
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 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
When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch offers a muted, thocky, and low-pitched typing experience, significantly reducing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch provides a neutral and muted sound profile, thanks to its innovative design that eliminates the need for silicone dampeners. Both switches aim to provide a quieter typing experience, making them suitable for noise-sensitive environments such as offices or shared workspaces. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is described as having a textured feel, which may provide a unique tactile sensation for users. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch offers an accented, invigorating, and mild typing experience, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. Both switches aim to strike a balance between tactile feedback and smooth typing experience, catering to different preferences among users. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to individual typing style and preference for tactile feedback.
In conclusion, both the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches offer innovative solutions for those seeking a quieter typing experience. The Cherry MX Silent Red excels in providing a quieter sound profile with its thocky and low-pitched characteristics, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile stands out for its unique design that combines silent operation with tactile feedback. Whether you prefer a slightly textured feel or a more accentuated tactile response, both switches deliver on their promise of reducing typing noise while maintaining a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, consider the environment you will be using the keyboard in and your preference in typing experience. If you are looking for a switch that provides a quieter typing experience in noise-sensitive environments without compromising on the linear feel, the MX Silent Red is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize a tactile typing experience with a silent operation, the WS Silent Tactile offers a unique combination of tactile feedback and noise reduction that is ideal for office environments. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a linear or tactile feel and how much noise reduction you require in your keyboard switch.
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