Jwick Semi-Silent Linear vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and benefits. The Semi-Silent Linear is highly regarded for its innovative design, providing a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a satisfyingly clacky bottom-out sound. Its type feel is silky smooth, striking a perfect balance between being polished without being overdone. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switches by Wuque elevate the office and work experience with their exceptional performance. These switches feature ingeniously designed stem railings with discreet cutouts, reducing switch noise while delivering unparalleled responsiveness and a satisfying bottom-out. Unlike traditional silent switches, the WS Silent Linear switches offer a distinct typing experience that avoids the usual cushioned sensation, ensuring a seamless blend of tranquility and precision. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your specific needs and preferences.
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
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear differ in terms of the top housing material. The Semi-Silent Linear features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear has a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound. So, while the Semi-Silent Linear offers a sharper and crisper sound, the WS Silent Linear provides a deeper and fuller sound.
Both the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear share the same nylon bottom housing. This material choice elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer nature and its ability to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. Therefore, regardless of the switch you choose, you can expect a similar experience in terms of sound when pressing down on the switch.
When it comes to the overall sound experience, the differences lie primarily in the top housing of the switches. The bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. However, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound that is produced when you release a key. Therefore, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear may have similar characteristics in their nylon bottom housings, the choice of top housing material will determine the overall sound profile when using these switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switches, it is worth noting that the exact actuation force is unavailable for both switches. However, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy. This slight difference indicates that the WS Silent Linear switch may provide a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer lighter switches, as they allow for longer typing periods, making them suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. However, if a more substantial push feel is desired, switches with heavier forces may be preferred. In this case, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch can be considered lighter due to its lower bottom out force, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch can be considered heavier.
While the actuation forces are unknown for both switches, it can be inferred that they are likely to be similar since the information is not provided. Therefore, individuals searching for similar actuation forces can expect comparable results when using either the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear or the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on the desired bottom out force and individual preferences for typing experience.
Travel distance
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches offer shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm option, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking faster response times. If responsiveness is your priority, the WS Silent Linear may be the preferable choice due to its slightly shorter travel distance. However, for those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear with its longer travel distance would be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether one prioritizes a faster response or a more substantial key press experience.
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 Silent Linear 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 comparing the sound qualities of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches, both switches fall under the category of neutral switches. This means that they have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. The Semi-Silent Linear switch is described as producing a more subdued sound when pressed, offering a subtle sound signature while still maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch is said to produce a softer and quieter sound compared to a regular or clacky switch. It aims to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will also be affected by other factors such as the specific keyboard board and keycaps used, as they can contribute to the overall sound produced.
In terms of feel, both the Semi-Silent Linear and the WS Silent Linear switches are described as mild switches. This means that they offer a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. With both switches falling into this category, the sound and feel of the typing experience will be approachable to most users, as their qualities stand in a safe middle-ground zone. The Semi-Silent Linear switch is further described as having a silky smooth type feel that is not over-polished. This suggests a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. While there is no additional information available about the specific feel of the WS Silent Linear switch, it can be inferred that it shares the mild and approachable characteristics with the Semi-Silent Linear switch.
Taking into account the available information, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches each offer their own unique qualities. The Semi-Silent Linear switch provides a semi-silent typing experience with a clacky bottom-out sound, while still maintaining a smooth and refined feel. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch aims to elevate the office and work experience by significantly reducing switch noise while delivering unparalleled responsiveness and a satisfying bottom-out. Although specific information about the feel of the WS Silent Linear switch is unknown, it can be assumed to fall within the mild category based on the available information. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience. However, it can be expected that both switches will provide similar results in terms of their neutral sound profiles and the approachable feel they offer.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium-bottom out force and a sound profile that is subdued or neutral, both the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear are viable options.
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is best known for its whisper-quiet topping-out sound and clacky bottom-out sound, providing a unique typing experience. It offers a silky-smooth type feel without being over-polished. This switch is suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work.
On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches excel in reducing switch noise with ingeniously designed stem railings and cutouts. They offer unparalleled responsiveness and a satisfying bottom-out. Despite the absence of silicone dampeners, they still provide a distinct typing experience that blends tranquility and precision. These switches also have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for most purposes.
When it comes to the overall feel, both switches fall under the mild category, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. However, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear also has additional descriptors such as snappy, buttery, and polished, implying a more alive, smooth, and refined typing sensation.
Ultimately, the choice between the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel. Consider whether you prioritize a switch that combines a clacky bottom-out sound with a whisper-quiet topping-out sound (Jwick Semi-Silent Linear) or a switch that prioritizes reducing noise while delivering unparalleled responsiveness (Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear).
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