Gateron Smoothie Silver vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes evident that both switches offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Smoothie Silver stands out for its lightning-fast actuation and thocky sound, providing an unparalleled smoothness and a feather-light touch. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switches by Wuque excel in reducing switch noise while delivering exceptional responsiveness and satisfying bottom-out, without the typical cushioned sensation found in traditional silent switches. The Smoothie Silver is best suited for those seeking a fast and tactile typing experience, while the WS Silent Linear switches are ideal for individuals looking for a quiet and precise 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Smoothie Silver and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Smoothie Silver utilizes POM for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deep and muted sound. This creates a distinct typing experience that may be preferred by those looking for a quieter switch. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear features nylon housing for both its components, providing a fuller and rounder sound. The softer nature of nylon allows for a more dampened typing experience compared to harder plastics.
While the top housing materials of the Smoothie Silver and WS Silent Linear differ, with POM for the former and nylon for the latter, both materials have their own unique benefits. POM creates a pleasing sound profile that is deeper and relatively more muted, while nylon elicits a fuller sound profile due to its softer composition. This means that the key-up sound on the Smoothie Silver will have a different quality compared to the WS Silent Linear, showcasing the impact of the top housing material on the overall sound produced by the switch.
In the end, whether you choose the Gateron Smoothie Silver with its POM housing or the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear with its nylon housing, you can expect similar results in terms of the overall sound profile each switch offers. Both housing materials have their own advantages, with POM providing a unique deep and muted sound, and nylon offering a fuller and rounder sound. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you are looking for in your mechanical keyboard.
Weight
The Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the WS Silent Linear switch has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, as opposed to the Smoothie Silver's unknown bottom out force. This means that the WS Silent Linear switch provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force may opt for the Smoothie Silver switch for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who prefer a heavier push feel may choose the WS Silent Linear switch for a more robust typing experience. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches cater to different preferences, allowing users to select the one that best suits their typing style and needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, the Smoothie Silver has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the WS Silent Linear has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance, which is ideal for gamers looking for faster response times. The slight difference of 0.1 mm between the two switches may not be noticeable to most users. However, if you prefer a switch with a slightly longer travel distance for a more substantial keypress feel, the WS Silent Linear would be the better option. On the other hand, if you prioritize quick and responsive keypresses, the Smoothie Silver would be the preferred choice. Overall, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, so either option can provide satisfactory results depending on personal preference.
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 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
The Gateron Smoothie Silver provides a distinctive thocky sound with its all-POM construction, offering an unparalleled smoothness and feather-light touch. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch boasts a unique stem railing design that reduces switch noise without the use of silicone dampeners, resulting in a muted and subdued typing experience. While the Smoothie Silver delivers a traditional mechanical keyboard sound, the WS Silent Linear offers a more tranquil and precise typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Smoothie Silver and WS Silent Linear switches both offer a gentle typing experience. The Smoothie Silver's short travel distance and lightning-fast actuation provide a unique feel, while the WS Silent Linear's ingeniously designed stem railings and discreet cutouts ensure a satisfying bottom-out without the cushioned sensation found in traditional silent switches. Both switches strike a balance between smoothness and responsiveness, making them suitable for a variety of typing preferences.
Overall, the Gateron Smoothie Silver and Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Smoothie Silver excels in providing a thocky sound and a feather-light touch, appealing to those who value traditional mechanical keyboard characteristics. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear offers a muted and subdued typing experience with its unique stem design, catering to users who crave a tranquil and precise typing experience without the usual cushioned sensation. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for an ultra-light, lightning-fast switch with a thocky sound and unparalleled smoothness, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you want a medium-heavy switch that reduces noise without the use of silicone dampeners, providing a tranquil yet precise typing experience, then the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision may come down to whether you prioritize speed and feather-light feel or a quieter, more subdued typing experience. Consider your preferences and typing needs carefully before making your selection.
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