Cherry Nixie vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Cherry Nixie and the Wuque Studio WS Red mechanical keyboard switches, you will find yourself faced with a decision between tradition and innovation. The Cherry Nixie switch is a revered classic within the keyboard community, known for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, thanks to the updated materials and springs from Cherry's MX2A update. On the other hand, the WS Red switch offers a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force that adds weight to each keystroke, delivering a satisfying feel. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, but the best choice ultimately depends on your personal typing style and preferences. 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
63.5g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Cherry Nixie and the Wuque Studio WS Red both use nylon as the material for their top and bottom switch housings. This choice of material allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is known for its softer properties that absorb more sound, creating a rounder and duller sound compared to harder plastics. With both switches utilizing the same housing material, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, as the nylon top and bottom housings work together to enhance the overall typing experience.
While both switches share the same housing material, the Cherry Nixie and the Wuque Studio WS Red may differ in their overall design and construction. The layout and structure of the housing components, such as the placement of stabilizers or the shape of the switch, can impact the typing experience and overall performance of the switch. Users may find subtle differences in feel and sound between the two switches due to these unique design elements, even though they both use nylon for their housings.
The split in qualities between the top and bottom housing of a switch can also play a role in how the switch feels and sounds during typing. The bottom housing of a switch typically has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This means that even though both the Cherry Nixie and the Wuque Studio WS Red use nylon for both top and bottom housings, differences in how these housings are constructed or designed can still lead to variations in the typing experience between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, we can see some clear differences. The Cherry Nixie has a higher actuation force of 63.5 grams compared to the WS Red, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Nixie is 80 grams, while the WS Red has a bottom out force of 67 grams. This makes the Nixie heavier in both categories. In terms of weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the WS Red for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may appreciate the heavier feel of the Nixie for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Cherry Nixie linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Nixie being on the longer side and the WS Red being on the shorter side. Gamers may prefer the WS Red switch for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial press may opt for the Cherry Nixie switch. In terms of travel distance, the WS Red is the shorter option compared to the Cherry Nixie. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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
When it comes to sound, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound characteristics, providing a deep and satisfying typing experience with a bass-heavy tone. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch is currently unavailable. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard layout, case material, and keycap material.
In terms of feel, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is described as having a textured typing experience, offering users a tactile feedback with noticeable friction when pressed. This can add a unique touch to the typing feel, catering to users who prefer a bit of resistance in their keystrokes. As for the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, there is no specific information available regarding its feel characteristics at this time.
Considering the available information, it is clear that the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Nixie provides a thocky and low-pitched sound profile along with a textured typing experience, the WS Red boasts a bouncy and responsive typing feel with a heavier actuation force. Both switches blend traditional elements with modern innovations, catering to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, consider the bottom out force and typing experience that best suits your preferences. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a textured typing experience, the Cherry Nixie may be the ideal choice for you. However, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force with a bouncy and responsive typing feel, the Wuque Studio WS Red may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the feel and sound profile that you find most comfortable and satisfying.
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