Jwick Semi-Silent Linear vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion
An in-depth look at the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Wuque Studio WS Onion are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique qualities for users seeking a premium typing experience. The Semi-Silent Linear is praised for its innovative design, providing a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while still maintaining a satisfying clacky bottom-out sound. With a silky smooth type feel that is not overly polished, this switch falls into the categories of subdued, neutral, mild, snappy, buttery, and polished. On the other hand, the WS Onion stands out with its combination of a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a buttery smooth keystroke feel that is deeply satisfying. Additionally, users will appreciate the crisp and responsive feel of these switches, along with their neutral sound profile. Both switches have their own distinct benefits, allowing users to choose based on their specific preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
WS CL635 Gold Plated Stainless Spring
Housing materials
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Wuque Studio WS Onion both utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Its relatively stiffer plastic composition allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, both keyboards offer similar sound qualities and visual aesthetics when it comes to their top housing materials.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of these switches differs. The Semi-Silent Linear features a nylon bottom housing, while the WS Onion utilizes the same material. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Therefore, both keyboards offer a similar typing experience in terms of the bottom housing material.
It is important to note that the choice of top and bottom housing material impacts different aspects of the typing experience. While the bottom housing contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing plays a more prominent role in the sound when releasing a key. The combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing allows for a well-balanced typing experience with both keyboards. Overall, these keyboards provide a similar sound profile and typing feel, with the materials used in the top and bottom housing contributing to specific aspects of the overall experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, we find that they both have medium actuation forces. Unfortunately, the exact measurement for the actuation force is unavailable for both switches. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has a force of 62 grams, which is medium, while the WS Onion has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy category.
Considering the weight of a switch is important as it can significantly impact the typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter feel may opt for switches with lower actuation and bottom out forces as it allows them to type for longer periods comfortably, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, some users prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, and for them, switches with heavier forces are preferable.
In terms of weight, it is worth noting that the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the WS Onion switches have similar actuation forces, as the exact measurements for both switches are currently unknown. However, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 62 grams, compared to the WS Onion's 63.5 grams, which can be considered as a somewhat heavier option.
Overall, while the actuation forces remain uncertain, it can be determined that the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is potentially lighter in terms of bottom out force, whereas the WS Onion offers a slightly heavier typing experience. However, since both switches fall under the medium category for actuation force, users can expect similar results when it comes to triggering keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Onion switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the WS Onion switch is slightly longer than the Semi-Silent Linear switch. The difference may not be significant, but it can affect the overall feel and responsiveness of the keyboard. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. Choosing between the two switches would depend on personal preference - those who prefer a shorter travel distance for a more responsive feel may lean towards the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, while those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes may opt for the Wuque Studio WS Onion switch. Ultimately, it is important to consider individual preferences and requirements when choosing between switches with different travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
The Wuque Studio WS Onion has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Onion for $5.53.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a subdued sound profile. It produces a dampened sound when pressed, making it not completely silent but more subtle compared to most switches. The WS Onion switch, on the other hand, has a neutral sound profile. It doesn't have any extreme characteristics and offers a moderate sound profile suitable for most intents and purposes. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps.
Moving on to feel, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch provides a mild typing experience. It offers a gentle typing sensation, making it approachable for most users. Additionally, it is described as snappy, meaning it is super responsive. This is often attributed to the longer or dual-staged springs used in the switch, giving it a more lively feel. Furthermore, it is also referred to as buttery, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. The typing sensation is seamless, effortless, and uniform. Lastly, the switch is described as polished, which means it has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. This can be due to the materials used or factory lubing, reducing friction and providing smooth key travel.
Similarly, the WS Onion switch is also described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation, similar to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch. Additionally, it is also referred to as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience. Both switches share these qualities, resulting in a comparable typing feel.
To conclude, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch stands out for its semi-silent label, offering a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. Its type feel is silky smooth, providing a safe, middle-ground typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Onion switch features a polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, delivering a buttery smooth keystroke feel that is deeply satisfying. It offers a neutral sound profile and a crisp, responsive typing feel. Despite their slight differences, both switches provide desirable qualities for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear would be a great choice. This switch is best known for its innovative design, offering a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. It has a silky smooth type feel that is not over-polished. In terms of sound, the Semi-Silent Linear is described as subdued, providing a dampened and subtle sound signature. In terms of feel, this switch offers a mild and snappy typing experience, making it approachable to most users.
On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Wuque Studio WS Onion would be a suitable option. These switches feature a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, providing a buttery smooth keystroke feel that is deeply satisfying. The WS Onion offers a crisp and responsive typing experience with a neutral sound profile. When it comes to feel, the WS Onion is also described as buttery and polished, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, both the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and Wuque Studio WS Onion have their unique features and qualities. The choice between the two ultimately depends on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and bottom out force. Regardless of your choice, you can expect a high-quality linear switch experience.
Mentioned in this article
