Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. Wuque Studio WS Dash
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches, keyboard enthusiasts are presented with two distinct options designed for different priorities. The Cherry MX Speed Silver, a linear switch, is celebrated for its rapid response time that is crucial for gamers, offering a full height for maximum speed and featuring low spring resistance for instant activation. Its textured and thocky feel adds a satisfying tactile element that can enhance the overall gaming experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches utilize Hall Effect technology, providing a unique blend of brightness and clackiness in their sound profile, coupled with a smooth keystroke that many users find appealing for both gaming and typing. While the Speed Silver excels in competitive gaming scenarios where speed is the ultimate priority, the WS Dash switches cater to those who appreciate auditory feedback and a distinctive typing experience. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that’s right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Wuque Studio WS Dash showcase distinct differences in their top housing materials, which significantly contribute to their sound profiles. The MX Speed Silver utilizes a nylon top housing, which is renowned for creating a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This is largely due to nylon’s softer texture, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. As a result, switches with a nylon top housing deliver a sound that is duller and rounder, providing an auditory experience that many typists find satisfying and less jarring during extended use. Conversely, the WS Dash utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency. This material produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, bringing a more pronounced clarity and resonance to the typing experience. For RGB enthusiasts, the polycarbonate's transparency enhances the visual appeal of the lighting, making it a favored choice for those wanting a vibrant and illuminated keyboard.
When examining the bottom housing of both switches, one finds an interesting alignment in materials, as both the MX Speed Silver and WS Dash are crafted from nylon. This commonality means that both switches emit a similar deeper and fuller sound profile when the key reaches the bottom, thanks to nylon's ability to absorb sound effectively. Consequently, while the top housings are distinctly different, the shared nylon bottom housing creates a harmonious aspect in the overall sound experience of both switches. This similarity ensures that typists can expect a certain level of richness and depth in the sound produced during key presses, regardless of the contrasting characteristics of the top housings.
Overall, the combination of differences in the top housing materials and similarities in the bottom housing results in a unique auditory experience for each switch. The MX Speed Silver's nylon top offers a rounded sound quality, while the WS Dash's polycarbonate top delivers a sharper sound. However, since both switches share the same nylon bottom housing, they retain a deeper resonant quality at the bottom-out point, providing typists with a satisfying tactile experience. Thus, while the two switches excel in different areas, the overlapping characteristics of nylon in the bottom housing ensure a similar depth of sound, creating a balanced typing experience that can cater to diverse preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces and bottom out forces. The Cherry MX Speed Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is heavier than the WS Dash's 30 grams. This means that for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the MX Speed Silver may better meet their needs. However, since the bottom out force for the MX Speed Silver is unknown, we cannot make a direct comparison in that regard. In contrast, the WS Dash reaches its bottom out at a force of 55 grams, categorized as medium-light. Consequently, if you favor a lighter switch that allows for longer typing sessions, the WS Dash would be the preferable choice due to its lower actuation force. Overall, if both actuation forces were known for the MX Speed Silver, the differences in force would likely guide users toward their preferred typing feel based on their specific needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, we find that the MX Speed Silver has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it slightly shorter than the WS Dash, which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that if you prioritize responsiveness in your typing or gaming, the Cherry MX Speed Silver might be more appealing due to its shorter travel distance, potentially offering faster response times. Conversely, the WS Dash provides a marginally longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more pronounced tactile experience. Both switches are designed with performance in mind, but the difference in travel distance could make a notable impact on user preference based on individual typing styles and needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
The Wuque Studio WS Dash has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Dash for $7.49.
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 sound profile of the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is characterized by a deep, thocky quality and a low-pitched tone, which contributes to a rich auditory experience upon keypresses. This sort of sound signature tends to resonate well with those who enjoy a more bass-heavy presence in their typing or gaming sessions, producing a satisfying thud that is both impactful and pleasant. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Dash switch emits a bright and clacky sound signature, offering a sharper auditory experience compared to the MX Speed Silver. The contrast between these sound profiles further highlights the personal preferences of users, with the Speed Silver appealing to those who favor a subdued, deep tone, while the WS Dash caters more to those who enjoy a lively and pronounced sound.
In terms of feel, the MX Speed Silver offers a textured experience that provides noticeable friction during key presses. This tactile aspect may be preferred by users who enjoy a bit of resistance and feedback as they type or game, which can enhance overall control and pleasure. Alternatively, the feel of the WS Dash switch is unknown; thus, it’s difficult to draw a direct comparison regarding physical feedback. However, both switches are designed with a focus on performance, and it's likely that each will deliver a distinct tactile experience based on their unique designs.
Overall, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver and Wuque Studio WS Dash switches differ in sound, with the former offering a thocky low-pitch while the latter delivers a bright and clacky signature, the feel can’t be fully evaluated without further information on the WS Dash. Users looking for rapid response and a satisfying audio experience may have distinct preferences depending on these characteristics. Ultimately, the best choice between these switches will depend on your specific priorities, whether they lean towards sound quality, feel, or a combination of both in your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Wuque Studio WS Dash Hall Effect switch ultimately hinges on your preferences and intended use. If you're an avid gamer looking for rapid response times and an almost instant actuation, the MX Speed Silver is your ideal choice with its linear action and minimal spring resistance. This switch excels in fast-paced environments where precision and speed are your greatest allies, and its thocky, low-pitched sound provides a satisfying auditory feedback that complements quick gameplay. On the other hand, if you're seeking a switch that offers a unique auditory experience and a more refined typing sensation, the WS Dash would be the better option. With its captivating clacky sound and silky smooth keystroke, this switch is perfect for someone who appreciates a more nuanced typing experience, perhaps even for tasks like programming or writing. Additionally, its medium-light bottom-out force allows for comfortable prolonged usage without fatigue. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness or a distinctive sound and feel for your keyboard.
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