Gateron Smoothie Silver vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow

Overview

When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Smoothie Silver and Wuque Studio WS Yellow both stand out as top choices in the linear switch category. The Smoothie Silver is renowned for its lightning-fast actuation and thocky sound, offering unparalleled smoothness and a feather-light touch. On the other hand, the WS Yellow boasts a timeless fusion of classic materials and cutting-edge engineering, with a double-stage spring providing a satisfying bounce during typing. While the Smoothie Silver is characterized by its short travel distance and smooth actuation, the WS Yellow stands out for its creamy, mild, and polished feel. Both switches offer a delightful typing experience, but it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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 Smoothie Silver Linear

Wuque Studio WS Yellow Linear

$3.00

$2.60 per 10

$3.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow, it is clear that both switches use different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Smoothie Silver utilizes POM for both its top and bottom housing, creating a unique sound profile that is deep and relatively muted. On the other hand, the WS Yellow utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound than harder plastics.

While the top and bottom housings of the Smoothie Silver and WS Yellow switches may differ in material, the overall impact on the sound profile and feel of the switch is split between the two components. The bottom housing of each switch has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down. Conversely, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when the key is released. This split in housing materials allows for a more nuanced typing experience with varying sound profiles throughout the keystroke.

In terms of sound production, the POM top housing of the Smoothie Silver creates a distinctive and pleasing sound that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. In comparison, the WS Yellow's nylon top housing results in a richer sound profile that is deeper and fuller. Both materials excel in creating a muted and rounder sound due to their respective properties of absorbing more sound than harder plastics. Ultimately, while the materials of the top and bottom housings may differ between the two switches, the overall typing experience is likely to be equally satisfying and unique in its own right.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, it becomes clear that they have distinct characteristics. The Smoothie Silver is lighter in terms of actuation force at 45 grams, while the WS Yellow's actuation force is unknown. However, the WS Yellow has a heavier bottom out force of 53 grams compared to the Smoothie Silver, which has no specified bottom out force. This suggests that the Smoothie Silver may provide a lighter typing experience overall, making it suitable for those who prefer a gentler feel. In contrast, the WS Yellow offers a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, appealing to users who prefer a firmer push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches boils down to individual preference, with weight playing a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience.

Travel distance

The Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Smoothie Silver has a shorter travel distance compared to the WS Yellow. Generally, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance provides a more substantial keystroke feel. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for a quicker key press response. Ultimately, the choice between the two would come down to personal preference regarding the feel and responsiveness of the switch.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is known for its thocky sound, which provides a deep and satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch offers a familiar sound signature that many enthusiasts appreciate, thanks to its material blend. Both switches can produce pleasing sound profiles, but the final sound experienced can be influenced by other factors like the keyboard and keycaps being used.

As for the feel, the Gateron Smoothie Silver switch is recognized for its unparalleled smoothness and feather-light touch, making it ideal for those seeking a fast and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switch offers a creamy typing experience, thanks to a smooth and buttery sensation of gliding fingers effortlessly across the keys. Additionally, the WS Yellow switch has a mild and polished feel, providing a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, catering to different preferences in typing feel.

In conclusion, the Gateron Smoothie Silver and Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switches both excel in different aspects of sound and feel. While the Smoothie Silver switch is known for its thocky sound and feather-light touch, the WS Yellow switch offers a creamy and polished typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound feedback and typing feel. However, both switches are designed to provide a smooth and enjoyable typing experience, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of overall performance and satisfaction.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, you should consider your preferred typing experience. If you prioritize lightning-fast actuation, unparalleled smoothness, and a feather-light touch, then the Smoothie Silver may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a delightful typing experience with a satisfying bounce, a familiar sound signature, and effortless keystrokes, the WS Yellow could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer the thocky sound and short travel distance of the Smoothie Silver or the creamy, mild, and polished feel of the WS Yellow. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences for a truly enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Smoothie Silver Linear

$3.00

$2.60 per 10

Learn more

Wuque Studio WS Yellow Linear

$3.50 per 10

Learn more