Gateron Quinn vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron Quinn and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Quinn, a tactile switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile, also a tactile switch. The Quinn switches offer a unique blend of crisp tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile due to their specially designed nylon housings. Users can enjoy a rich and immersive typing experience with each keystroke, characterized by a precise and clean tactile bump. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switches prioritize smoothness with a snappy and perceptible tactile bump, alongside a neutral sound signature. While the Quinn switches are described as 'Snappy', 'Bassy', and 'Resonant', the WS Light Tactile switches are categorized as 'Stepped', 'Neutral', and 'Easy-to-press'. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences, but let's delve deeper beyond generalities to help you make the best choice for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Quinn and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile, we can see that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that when typing on either of these switches, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the soft nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound that provides a satisfying typing experience. The similarity in the bottom housing material ensures that users will get comparable sound and feel when typing on both switches.
However, when it comes to the top housing material, the Gateron Quinn features a nylon top housing while the WS Light Tactile uses a polycarbonate top housing. The differences in these materials lead to contrasting sound profiles. The nylon top housing of the Quinn creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, offering a softer sound experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the WS Light Tactile produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, providing a more clear and resonant typing experience. This contrast in top housing materials results in a distinct auditory experience for users of each switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Quinn and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile will come down to personal preference for sound and feel. The use of different housing materials in the top housing of each switch plays a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience. While both switches offer a satisfying typing experience due to their nylon bottom housing, the contrasting sound profiles of the nylon and polycarbonate top housings provide users with distinct options to choose from based on their preferences for sound and feel. Whether one prefers a softer and fuller sound or a sharper and crisper sound, both switches offer unique qualities to cater to different preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it lighter. In terms of bottom out force, the Quinn requires 67 grams of force to fully press the key, while the WS Light Tactile only needs 50 grams, indicating that it is also lighter in this aspect. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the WS Light Tactile switch for a smoother typing experience, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may appreciate the medium-heavy actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Quinn switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the WS Light Tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Quinn switch. The Quinn switch falls into the category of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch provides a bit more depth, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when deciding which one to choose.
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 Light 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is known for its bassy and resonant characteristics, providing a deep and immersive sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound signature, making it suitable for a wide range of users and preferences. While the Quinn offers a more rich and character-filled sound experience, the WS Light Tactile provides a more balanced and moderate sound profile that won't be overwhelming in various settings.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is praised for its snappy, polished, and bouncy qualities, offering a responsive and lively typing experience with smooth key travel. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch is characterized as having a stepped and easy-to-press feel, providing a comfortable and low-impact typing experience. While the Quinn switches provide a more dynamic and tactile feedback, the WS Light Tactile switches offer a more subtle and gentle typing sensation.
Overall, if you prefer a keyboard switch with a deep and resonant sound profile, along with snappy and polished tactile feedback, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral sound signature and a light and easy-to-press typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch would be a suitable option. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience based on individual preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, consider your preferences for key feel and sound. If you prefer a medium-heavy key feel with a crisp and deep sound profile, the Quinn switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter key feel with a smooth and neutral sound profile, the WS Light Tactile switch might be more suitable for your typing needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider your personal preferences and typing style when making a decision between the two.
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