Gateron Silent Ink Black vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Silent Ink Black and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile are two mechanical keyboard switches that cater to different preferences. On one hand, the Silent Ink Black is a linear switch loved for its silenced version of the Ink Black switch, perfect for quieter typing environments. It offers a cushiony, pillow-like bottom-out feel with minimal audio feedback. Categorized as 'Silky', 'Muted', and 'Polished', this switch provides a smooth and tranquil typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch from Wuque Studio is a complete contrast. It features a remarkable tactile bump, with a tactile force of 70g that adds a satisfying resistance to each keystroke. Categorized as 'Accented', 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Invigorating', 'Resonant', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', this switch delivers a tactile experience that is engaging and immersive. Not only that, but Wuque Studios' nylon housings also contribute to a "thocky" resonance, creating a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches differ in terms of their sound profiles. The Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend top housing is known for producing a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, which is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound due to the nylon's ability to absorb more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound profile. So, while both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, the Silent Ink Black offers a sharper and higher-pitched sound, while the WS Heavy Tactile produces a fuller and deeper sound.
Similarly, the bottom housing materials also exhibit different characteristics between the two switches. The Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend bottom housing contributes to its pointed and high-pitched sound profile, which adds to the overall clacky typing experience. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound profile. The bottom housing also impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, meaning that the Silent Ink Black may provide a more noticeable impact sensation when the key is pressed fully. Meanwhile, the WS Heavy Tactile would offer a softer bottom-out experience.
When comparing the top and bottom housings, it's essential to consider their respective impacts on the typing sound. The top housing primarily influences the sound generated when releasing a key. With the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend top housing, the sound is described as relatively high-pitched and not overly sharp, complementing the overall clacky profile of the switch. Similarly, the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon top housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when the key is released. In summary, while the top and bottom housings differ between the two switches, they both play a significant role in shaping the typing sounds, albeit with varying characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, there are some noticeable differences. The Silent Ink Black has an actuation force of 60 grams, which means it requires a moderate amount of force to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force for the WS Heavy Tactile is unavailable, so we cannot directly compare the two switches in this aspect. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Silent Ink Black requires 70 grams of force, making it slightly heavier compared to the WS Heavy Tactile, which has a bottom out force of 45 grams.
For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, the WS Heavy Tactile might be a better choice due to its lower bottom out force. This lighter force allows for extended typing sessions without causing excessive strain or fatigue. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial push feel and a stronger typing experience would find the Silent Ink Black to be more suitable. The higher actuation force and bottom out force of the Silent Ink Black provide a satisfying feedback and ensure precision during typing or gaming sessions. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, but it's worth noting that if someone prefers a lighter force, they can achieve similar results with both switches.
Travel distance
The Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Silent Ink Black has a slightly longer distance compared to the WS Heavy Tactile. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Silent Ink Black is more in line with traditional switch travel distances, while the 3.2mm travel distance of the WS Heavy Tactile is slightly shallower. Gamers, who prioritize faster response times, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the WS Heavy Tactile for its increased responsiveness. However, for those who enjoy a deeper keystroke, the longer travel distance of the Silent Ink Black may provide a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of key depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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 it comes to sound, the Gateron Silent Ink Black offers a muted experience that minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Its cushion-like bottom-out feel is accompanied by minimal audio feedback. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches present a captivating and familiar sound profile. Their nylon housing contributes to a "thocky" resonance, resulting in a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. The WS Heavy Tactile switches are also described as clacky and high-pitched, providing crisp and sharp sounds when pressed. If you prefer a softer and quieter typing experience, the Silent Ink Black will be more suitable, while the WS Heavy Tactile switches offer a more engaging and resonant sound profile.
Moving on to feel, the Silent Ink Black switch is known for its silky and polished characteristics. It offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The WS Heavy Tactile switches, on the other hand, provide an invigorating sensation with pronounced feedback. They are described as accented, meaning they offer a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. Additionally, the bouncy and snappy attributes of the WS Heavy Tactile switches add to their lively feel, providing rebound when pressed. If you prefer a smoother typing experience with minimal resistance, the Silent Ink Black switch would be the better choice. However, if you seek a switch with a distinct and sharp tactile bump, the WS Heavy Tactile switch will deliver a more satisfying feedback.
In conclusion, the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Silent Ink Black switch provides a muted sound profile and a silky, polished typing experience. It is best suited for environments that require quieter typing and a smooth feel. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch delivers a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound profile. Its accented tactility, bouncy feel, and snappy response create an immersive typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can choose either switch accordingly. If you desire a similar level of sound dampening and smoothness, the Silent Ink Black switch will provide similar results.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your specific preferences and needs. If you prioritize a quieter typing experience and a cushion-like bottom-out feel, the Silent Ink Black is the way to go. It offers a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 70 grams and is best suited for environments that require minimal audio feedback. On the other hand, if you seek a more immersive and engaging typing journey with a pronounced tactile bump, the WS Heavy Tactile is the perfect choice. With a bottom-out force of 45 grams, this switch provides a satisfying resistance and captures attention with its captivating sound profile. The nylon housing of the WS Heavy Tactile contributes to a "thocky" resonance, adding to the auditory feedback. Ultimately, consider your desired typing experience in terms of sound and feel, and choose accordingly between these two exceptional mechanical keyboard switches.
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