Gateron Quinn vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron Quinn and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two standout options are the Gateron Quinn and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile. The Quinn switches are renowned for their unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile. With specially designed nylon housings, each keystroke produces a rich and immersive sound that adds a touch of character to the typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switches from Wuque Studio offer a profound and pronounced tactile bump, providing a satisfying resistance with every keystroke. With a tactile force of 70g, typing becomes an engaging and immersive journey. Additionally, the Wuque Heavy Tactile switches deliver a captivating sound profile, thanks to Wuque Studios' take on the nylon housings, which contributes to a satisfying "thocky" resonance. Both switches offer exceptional tactile experiences and satisfying sound profiles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can determine which switch is the best fit for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Quinn and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile both utilize nylon as the material for their top housing. This choice in material creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches. Nylon, being a softer plastic, has the capability to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a similar sound experience from both the Quinn and the WS Heavy Tactile switches due to their shared nylon top housing.
Similarly, both switches employ nylon as the material for their bottom housing. This contributes to the deeper and fuller sound profile that is characteristic of switches using nylon housing. As with the top housing, the softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound overall. Therefore, users can anticipate a comparable sound experience from both the Quinn and the WS Heavy Tactile switches due to their shared nylon bottom housing.
While both switches share the same nylon material for their top and bottom housings, it is important to note that the qualities brought by each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switches. The bottom housing plays a more prominent role in influencing the sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, particularly affecting the bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. With this in mind, users can expect slight variations in the tactile and auditory experience between the Quinn and the WS Heavy Tactile, attributing it to the differing effects of the separate top and bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Gateron Quinn has an actuation force of 59 grams, providing a medium-heavy touch, while the force required for bottoming out is 67 grams. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile switch does not specify the actuation force but has a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is comparatively lighter.
Considering weight preferences, those seeking a lighter switch may find the WS Heavy Tactile more suitable. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces allow for longer typing sessions, making it an excellent choice for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push and a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Gateron Quinn switch, with its medium-heavy actuation and bottom out forces.
It is worth noting that for users who desire similar results, both switches offer different options. While the Gateron Quinn provides a consistent medium-heavy feel throughout the keystroke process, the WS Heavy Tactile offers a lighter actuation force but still maintains a reasonable bottom out force. Thus, users seeking a comparable experience to the Gateron Quinn may find satisfaction with the WS Heavy Tactile, despite the lack of specified actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, it is clear that there is a slight difference between the two. The Quinn has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the WS Heavy Tactile has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become increasingly popular, particularly among gamers seeking faster response times. Therefore, if you prioritize a more responsive typing experience, either of these switches would likely suit your needs. However, it is important to note that individuals who prefer a more substantial key press may find the longer travel distance of the Gateron Quinn more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between these switches boils down to personal preference and the desired level of tactility.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
The Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile 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 comparing the sound qualities of the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, both switches offer a pleasing auditory experience. The Quinn switches are renowned for their unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile. With their specially designed nylon housings, each keystroke on the Quinn switch produces a rich and immersive sound, adding character to the typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switches also provide a captivating sound profile. Wuque Studios' take on the nylon housings contributes to a "thocky" resonance, resulting in a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. While the Quinn switches offer a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, the WS Heavy Tactile switches are described as clacky and high-pitched. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the choice of board and keycaps. Therefore, both switches offer similar results in terms of sound, providing an immersive and enjoyable typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch offer different tactile experiences. The Quinn switches are described as snappy, polished, bouncy, and accented. This means that they provide a super responsive typing experience, with smooth key travel and a lively rebound when pressed. The accented tactility of the Quinn switches offers a prominent amount of feedback without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switches are also described as accented and bouncy. This means that they provide a pronounced feedback, a spring-like or elastic sensation, and a snappy and reactive feel. The sharp tactile bump of the WS Heavy Tactile switches is distinct and can be felt with each keypress. Both switches offer a satisfying and engaging feel while typing, providing a medium tactile experience.
Taking into consideration all the available information, it is clear that both the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch offer unique and desirable qualities. While the Quinn switches provide a crisp and light tactility with a deep, resonant sound profile, the WS Heavy Tactile switches offer a pronounced and bouncy tactile feedback with a captivating sound profile. Both switches contribute to an immersive typing experience, making each keystroke engaging and satisfying. Whether you prefer the bassy and low-pitched sound of the Quinn switches or the clacky and high-pitched sound of the WS Heavy Tactile switches, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences and the type of typing experience you desire.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, then the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is the ideal choice for you. These switches offer precise and clean tactile bumps and provide a rich and immersive typing experience with their specially designed nylon housings. The Quinn switches are characterized by their bassy and clacky sound profiles.
On the other hand, if you prefer a light switch with a profound and pronounced tactile bump, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch is the perfect fit. With a lower bottom out force of 45 grams, these switches provide a satisfying resistance and an engaging typing journey. The Wuque Heavy Tactile Switches have a captivating sound profile, thanks to the "thocky" resonance created by the nylon housings.
In terms of sound, the Quinn offers a bassy and resonant sound, while the WS Heavy Tactile provides a clacky and high-pitched sound. Both switches deliver a clean and sharp auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Quinn switches are described as snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switches are accented, bouncy, invigorating, sharp, and snappy.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch depends on your preference for bottom-out force, tactile experience, sound profile, and typing feel. Consider your personal preferences and typing style to make an informed decision.