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Gateron Quinn vs. Wuque Studio WS Red

An in-depth look at the Gateron Quinn and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Quinn, a tactile switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Red, a linear switch. The Quinn switches are well-known for their unique combination of crisp tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile. With each keystroke, users can expect a precise, clean, and crisp tactile bump, accompanied by a rich and immersive sound that adds a touch of character to the typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Red switches offer a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a familiar sound signature thanks to its classic material blend. These switches feature a heavier actuation force, adding a touch of weight to each keystroke and delivering a satisfying and substantial typing feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing style.

By the numbers

Technical specifications

Actuation force

59g

Actuation force

N/A

Bottom-out force

67g

Bottom-out force

67g

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Total travel

3.40 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

22mm double-stage gold-plated

Spring

22mm double-stage spring

Housing materials

The Gateron Quinn and the Wuque Studio WS Red both have nylon top and bottom housings, making them similar in terms of their housing materials. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches are likely to provide a similar sound experience when it comes to bottom-out and the release of the key.

Since both switches utilize nylon as the material for their top and bottom housings, it can be expected that the sound produced when typing will have similar characteristics. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel will be evident in both switches. The softer nature of nylon will contribute to a quieter and more cushioned bottom-out experience, creating a satisfying typing sensation. Additionally, when releasing a key, the top housing, heavily influenced by nylon, will influence the sound produced. It is likely that both the Gateron Quinn and the Wuque Studio WS Red will have a consistent and rounded sound when keys are released.

However, it is important to note that if the top and bottom housings differ for either switch, the qualities brought by the housing materials will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. This means that the impact on the sound and feel may vary depending on the specific configuration of the switch. Nevertheless, as long as both switches maintain a nylon housing for both the top and the bottom, it can be expected that the overall sound profile and typing experience will have similarities in terms of the deeper and fuller sound, as well as the absorption of sound provided by nylon.

Weight

When considering weight, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch have varying characteristics. The Quinn switch has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy. On the other hand, the WS Red switch's actuation force is unknown, but it also has a bottom out force of 67 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy as well. Both switches offer a similarly substantial typing experience due to their identical bottom out forces. However, those desiring a lighter feel may find the Quinn switch more suitable for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming, as it has a lighter actuation force. In contrast, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel may lean towards the WS Red switch or other options with heavier actuation forces.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it is clear that the WS Red has a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Quinn has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Although both switches fall within the range of what is considered a traditional travel distance, it is worth noting that a shorter travel distance is becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. For these individuals, the Quinn switch would be a suitable choice. However, some may find shorter travel distances to feel abrupt, preferring a switch with a bit more depth. In that case, the WS Red switch with its longer travel distance would be a better fit. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth.

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 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 Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a unique combination of qualities. These switches have a deep and resonant sound profile, thanks to their specially designed nylon housings. The sound can be characterized as bassy, low-pitched, and resonant, providing a rich and immersive auditory experience. In contrast, there is no specific information provided about the sound of the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, while the specific sound characteristics of the WS Red switch are unknown, users can still achieve similar results by choosing a compatible setup.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is described as snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy. These switches offer a super responsive typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. The keys have a lively feel, providing rebound and a tactile sensation that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. The typing experience is seamless, effortless, and uniform, resembling gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. On the other hand, there is no available information about the feel of the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch. Without specific descriptors, it is challenging to determine the exact qualities of the switch's feel.

Considering all the available information, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch stands out for its unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and deep, resonant sound profile. It offers a precise, clean, and crisp tactile bump while providing a rich and immersive auditory experience. In terms of feel, the Quinn switches are snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy, delivering a super responsive typing experience with smooth and refined key travel. Although there is no detailed information about the sound and feel of the WS Red switch, users can still achieve similar results with the right combination of keyboard board and keycaps. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding sound, feel, and other factors such as actuation force and travel distance.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prioritize a unique tactile switch with a deep and resonant sound profile, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch would be a great choice for you. With its specially designed nylon housings, you can expect a crisp and clean tactile bump with each keystroke, accompanied by a rich and immersive sound. The Quinn switch offers a combination of light switch-like tactility and a touch of character to enhance your typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch is worth considering. Its 22mm double-stage spring provides a satisfying and substantial typing feel, while still retaining a familiar sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on your personal preference for sound and feel, so consider what qualities are most important to you in your mechanical keyboard switches.

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