Gateron Silent Ink Black vs. Wuque Studio WS Red

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the Wuque Studio WS Red. The Silent Ink Black is ideal for those seeking a quieter typing experience, making it ideal for environments where noise needs to be minimized. With its pillow-like bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback, this switch provides a comfortable and silent typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Red stands out for its bouncy and responsive typing feel, thanks to its 22mm double-stage spring. While it retains a familiar sound signature, it offers a heavier actuation force, adding a touch of weight to each keystroke for a satisfying and substantial typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Silent Ink Black Linear

Wuque Studio WS Red Linear

$8.50

$8.35 per 10

$3.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches have distinct differences that result in varying sound profiles. Starting with the top housing, the Silent Ink Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend that creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. This gives a satisfying clacky feel to typing. In contrast, the WS Red's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of nylon. This material absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller tone.

Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches have unique characteristics. The INK blend bottom housing of the Silent Ink Black maintains the same pointed and high-pitched sound profile as its top housing. This consistency ensures a cohesive typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Red's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, similar to its top housing. This combination provides a more consistent sound and feel throughout the keystrokes.

It's worth noting that the impact of housing materials can vary depending on whether they are used for the top or bottom of the switch. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing are more prominent, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, the top housing plays a greater role in the sound produced when a key is released. Despite their differences, both the Silent Ink Black and WS Red offer distinct and satisfying typing experiences, each with their own unique sound profiles.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch to the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, there are both similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Silent Ink Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy range. On the other hand, the exact actuation force of the WS Red is unavailable, but it has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it also medium-heavy. While both switches have similar bottom out forces, the precise actuation force of the WS Red remains unknown.

When considering weight, some individuals prefer a lighter actuation force as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer a switch with a heavier actuation force. In this case, both the Silent Ink Black and the WS Red fall into the medium-heavy category, catering to the preference of individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel. Therefore, if the actuation forces of the Silent Ink Black and the WS Red are similar, users can expect comparable results in terms of the typing experience. However, it is worth noting that the actuation force of the WS Red is unknown, making it difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.

Travel distance

The Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch have different travel distances. The Silent Ink Black has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Red has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. 4.0 mm is a more traditional travel distance, while 3.8 mm is slightly shorter. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the WS Red a potential choice for them. However, some individuals may find short travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer a deeper key press. In this case, the Silent Ink Black with its 4 mm travel distance would be a better option. It ultimately depends on personal preference and the level of responsiveness desired.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Silent Ink Black is often praised for its muted quality. This means that compared to regular or clacky switches, it produces a softer and quieter sound. These switches are designed to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, making them ideal for quieter environments. On the other hand, there is no available information on the sound profile of the Wuque Studio WS Red switch. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.

Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch offers a silky and polished typing experience. "Silky" refers to the exceptionally smooth typing experience these switches provide. They reduce resistance when pressing and releasing keys, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel. Additionally, the term "polished" indicates a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. This can be achieved through the use of high-quality materials and/or factory lubrication. With the Silent Ink Black switches, you can expect reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, there is no available information on the feel of the Wuque Studio WS Red switch.

Based on the available information, the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Silent Ink Black is known for its muted sound and silky, polished typing experience. On the other hand, there is limited information available on the sound and feel of the WS Red switch. If you are looking for a quieter typing experience with a smooth and refined feel, the Silent Ink Black switch would be a reliable choice. However, if you are specifically interested in the WS Red switch, it is recommended to seek additional information or try them out personally to determine if they meet your preferences.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you're looking for a quieter typing experience in environments that require minimal audio feedback, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch would be a great choice. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, it offers a cushioned and pillow-like bottom-out feel. Additionally, its muted sound profile ensures a softer and quieter typing experience.

On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a familiar sound signature, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch would be the way to go. It features a 22mm double-stage spring that adds a touch of weight to each keystroke, delivering a satisfying and substantial typing feel. While there is no specific information available about its sound and feel characteristics, it can be expected to retain a classic sound and provide a smooth typing experience.

Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Silent Ink Black and Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch will depend on your personal preferences and the type of typing experience you desire. Whether you prioritize a quiet and cushioned typing experience or prefer a bouncy and responsive feel, both switches offer their unique advantages. Consider your typing environment, desired sound profile, and preferred key feel when making your decision.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Silent Ink Black Linear

$8.50

$8.35 per 10

Learn more

Wuque Studio WS Red Linear

$3.50 per 10

Learn more