Cherry Nixie vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch offer distinct typing experiences. The Cherry Nixie is revered for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, blending tradition with modern innovation through Cherry's MX2A update. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile from Wuque Studio prioritizes noise reduction and tactile feedback, making it ideal for office environments with its silent yet crisp typing experience. While the Nixie is known for its low-pitched thocky feel, the WS Silent Tactile offers a more muted and invigorating typing experience. Both switches have their unique qualities and benefits, catering to different preferences and needs. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Gold-plated
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry Nixie and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile, it is clear that both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This means that both switches will likely provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, as they share this common housing material.
However, while both switches may have the same nylon housing material, the design and construction of the top and bottom housings can still impact the overall typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, will be more pronounced when pressing down on the switch. On the other hand, the top housing will have a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. This subtle difference in housing design could potentially lead to variations in typing feel and sound between the Cherry Nixie and the WS Silent Tactile.
Overall, the choice of housing material in a mechanical switch can have a significant impact on the overall typing experience. Both the Cherry Nixie and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile's use of nylon for their housing materials suggests a similar sound profile characterized by a deeper and fuller tone. However, minor differences in the design and construction of the top and bottom housings may still lead to variations in typing feel and sound between the two switches. It is important for keyboard enthusiasts to consider these nuances when selecting a switch that best suits their preferences for sound and typing experience.
Weight
The Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch both have distinct differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Nixie has a higher actuation force of 63.5 grams compared to the WS Silent Tactile which has an unknown actuation force. However, the WS Silent Tactile has a lower bottom out force of 63.5 grams compared to the Nixie's 80 grams. This makes the Nixie switch heavier overall compared to the WS Silent Tactile, which is considered to be medium-heavy. The weight of the switch is an important factor to consider based on personal preference. Lighter switches are preferred by some for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may favor heavier switches for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Cherry Nixie linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Nixie has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the WS Silent Tactile. The Nixie's 4 mm distance might provide a more substantial feel when typing, which some may prefer for a more tactile experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile's 3.5 mm travel distance could offer a quicker response time, making it a popular choice among gamers. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on personal preference for travel distance – whether one prefers a longer, more deliberate press or a shorter, snappier key response.
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 $4.15.
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 Nixie switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched characteristics, offering a deep and satisfying sound with a bass-heavy tone. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch provides a neutral and muted sound profile, minimizing noise and delivering a quieter typing experience suitable for office environments. Depending on personal preferences and the overall setup of the keyboard, users can achieve either a deep, rich sound or a more subdued, quiet typing experience with these switches.
In terms of feel, the Cherry Nixie switch is noted for its textured typing experience, providing noticeable friction when pressed. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch offers an accented tactility that is not scratchy, providing a medium level of feedback that is invigorating yet gentle. With a blend of pronounced feedback and a smoother typing experience, users can enjoy a tactile sensation that falls in the middle ground between overwhelming and subtle, creating an immersive and approachable feel while typing.
Considering the information provided, it is evident that the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Nixie switch provides a deep, thocky sound and a textured typing experience, the WS Silent Tactile switch delivers a quieter, muted sound and an invigorating, accented feel. Depending on the user's preferences for sound and tactility, they can select the switch that best suits their typing style and environment. Overall, both switches offer a unique blend of traditional and modern features, setting a high standard for keyboard enthusiasts seeking a specific sound and feel in their mechanical switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and enjoy a thocky, low-pitched sound with a textured typing experience, the Cherry Nixie may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a neutral, muted sound profile, and an accented, invigorating tactile feel, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your individual typing style and desired typing experience.
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