Cherry MX Silent Red vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Cherry MX Silent Red and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer a unique typing experience. The MX Silent Red provides a slightly heftier feel compared to the MX Red, but with the added benefit of operating silently, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the WS Yellow linear switches feature a 22mm double-stage spring for a delightful typing experience with a satisfying bounce. The material blend of the WS Yellow offers a familiar sound signature that enthusiasts adore, while also being lightweight for effortless keystrokes. Each switch has its own distinct characteristics, with the MX Silent Red being categorized as 'Muted', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured' and the WS Yellow as 'Creamy', 'Mild', 'Polished'. 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
53g
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
In terms of housing materials, both the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, both switches offer a duller and rounder sound compared to switches made with harder plastics. The similarities in housing material ensure that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
Despite using the same nylon material for their housings, the MX Silent Red and WS Yellow switches may differ in their overall typing experience based on additional design elements. For example, the shape and size of the housings, as well as the internal components like the stem and spring, can impact factors such as keypress resistance, actuation force, and tactile feedback. These differences can lead to variations in typing comfort and performance, even though both switches share the same housing material. It's important for users to consider these additional factors when selecting a switch that best suits their typing preferences.
Ultimately, the choice between the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches may come down to personal preference and typing style. While both switches offer similar sound profiles and tactile experiences due to their shared use of nylon housing materials, nuances in design and internal components can result in variations in feel and performance. Whether a user prefers a softer bottom-out sound or a specific actuation force, it's essential to consider all elements of the switch design to determine which option aligns best with their typing needs and preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, it is evident that they have different characteristics. The MX Silent Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with less effort. On the other hand, the WS Yellow has a medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. While the actuation force of the WS Yellow is unknown, it is clear that it is heavier than the MX Silent Red. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, the MX Silent Red would be the better choice. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the WS Yellow would be the ideal option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The Cherry MX Silent Red offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it the preferred choice for those who prioritize quick key presses. On the other hand, the WS Yellow switch provides a slightly deeper key press experience, which may be more comfortable for those who prefer a bit more depth in their key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
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 Yellow 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
When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Silent Red 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 Yellow is known for its familiar sound signature, featuring a blend of classic materials that provide a satisfying bounce. While the specific sound characteristics of the WS Yellow are not detailed, both switches are likely to deliver a pleasant auditory experience, with the MX Silent Red being the quieter option.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Silent Red is noted for its textured feel, with some users preferring the friction when pressing the keys. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing sensation that feels like effortlessly gliding across the keys. Additionally, the WS Yellow is also categorized as mild and polished, ensuring a gentle and refined typing experience that reduces friction and provides smooth key travel. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, catering to users with different preferences in terms of tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switches each offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The MX Silent Red excels in providing a quieter typing experience with its muted sound profile and textured feel, while the WS Yellow stands out for its creamy and polished sensation that ensures smooth key travel. Whether you prefer a quieter typing experience or a smooth and buttery feel, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience catering to different preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, consider the environment you'll be using the keyboard in. If you require a quieter typing experience for noise-sensitive surroundings, the MX Silent Red switch is your best bet with its muted and low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and effortless typing experience with a creamy and polished feel, the WS Yellow switch is the way to go. Ultimately, your choice should be based on whether you prioritize noise reduction or a silky typing sensation. Both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences, so make your decision based on your personal preferences and typing needs.
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