Gateron Smoothie Silver vs. Wuque Studio WS Jade
An in-depth look at the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the Wuque Studio WS Jade, both linear switches. The Smoothie Silver stands out for its all-POM construction, providing a short travel distance for lightning-fast actuation. Known for its thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and feather-light touch, it offers a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Jade features a metallic insert in its stem base to create a bright metallic and resonant sound profile. Additionally, it includes a light diffuser for an enchanting RGB display. The typing experience with the WS Jade is described as uniquely creamy and smooth, with a rock-solid bottom-out feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches are quite similar, both utilizing POM material for their top and bottom housings. This results in a comparable sound profile for both switches, characterized by a pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted. The POM material used in both switches contributes to their overall sound profile, creating a consistent experience for users looking for a specific sound and feel in their mechanical keyboards.
However, while both switches share the same POM material for their top and bottom housings, the impact of these materials may differ slightly in terms of bottom-out sound and feel versus the sound when releasing a key. The bottom housing of a switch, such as in the Smoothie Silver, has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is fully pressed, providing a tactile response that users may prefer. On the other hand, the top housing of a switch, such as in the WS Jade, plays a larger role in the sound when a key is released, offering a unique auditory experience that complements the overall typing feel of the switch.
Overall, both the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches offer a similar typing experience when it comes to housing materials. The POM top and bottom housings create a distinct and enjoyable sound profile that caters to users seeking a deeper and more muted typing experience. While there may be slight differences in the impact of the housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches, both options provide a consistent and satisfying typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, which requires 50 grams of force to actuate. Both switches do not provide information on their bottom out forces, making it difficult to compare in that aspect. However, the WS Jade switch has a medium bottom out force of 60 grams. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Smoothie Silver switch for a more effortless typing experience or extended gaming sessions, while those who prefer a bit more resistance may opt for the WS Jade switch for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, the Smoothie Silver has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the WS Jade's 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The Smoothie Silver's 3.4 mm travel distance may appeal to those seeking a quicker key press while the WS Jade's 3.6 mm travel distance may provide a slightly more tactile experience. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, with only a slight variation between the two.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Smoothie Silver has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie Silver for $2.60.
The Wuque Studio WS Jade comes in at $4.30 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 Smoothie Silver linear switch is known for its thocky sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying noise with each key press. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch offers a unique clacky sound, which is sharp and snappy, creating a bright and percussive auditory experience. The WS Jade also features a resonant quality that adds to the overall typing sensation, making it stand out from the Smoothie Silver in terms of sound.
In terms of feel, the Smoothie Silver switch is recognized for its feather-light touch and unparalleled smoothness, providing a seamless typing experience. Contrarily, the WS Jade switch offers a creamy and silky feel, enhancing the smoothness of each keystroke and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This creamy sensation, paired with a rock-solid bottom-out, creates a unique typing experience that is distinct from the light and smooth feel of the Smoothie Silver.
Taking into account all the available information, it's clear that both the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Smoothie Silver provides a thocky sound and a light touch, while the WS Jade offers a clacky sound and a creamy typing feel. Depending on your preference for sound and tactile feedback, either of these switches can provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance, making them both excellent choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value lightning-fast actuation, a feather-light touch, and a thocky sound, then the Smoothie Silver may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bright metallic and resonant sound profile, along with a creamy and smooth typing feel, then the WS Jade could be the switch for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the sound and feel that align with your typing preferences and style. Happy typing!
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