Gateron Smoothie vs. Wuque Studio WS Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Smoothie and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Smoothie and the Wuque Studio WS Brown are two popular options that offer unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience. The Smoothie, a linear switch, is praised for its thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and lightweight touch, making it ideal for those who prefer a buttery, low-pitched typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Brown, a tactile switch, provides a medium-light actuation force that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort, perfect for fatigue-free typing during long sessions. While the Smoothie offers a subdued and silky feel, the WS Brown delivers a familiar and delightful auditory 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
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Smoothie and the Wuque Studio WS Brown both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Smoothie uses POM for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound when typing. In contrast, the WS Brown utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, producing a fuller and rounder sound due to nylon's ability to absorb more sound. While the materials differ between the two switches, they both aim to create an enjoyable typing experience with distinct sound characteristics.
Despite the difference in housing materials, the Gateron Smoothie and the Wuque Studio WS Brown share similarities in their approach to sound production. Both switches focus on creating a pleasing sound profile that enhances the typing experience for users. The POM top housing of the Smoothie and the nylon top housing of the WS Brown both contribute to a deep and full sound when typing on the switches. Additionally, the bottom housings of both switches play a role in the overall sound profile, with the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie and the nylon bottom housing of the WS Brown influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Smoothie and the Wuque Studio WS Brown ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. While the Smoothie's POM housing creates a more muted sound, the WS Brown's nylon housing offers a fuller and rounder sound. Both switches aim to provide a unique typing experience with their respective housing materials, allowing users to choose the switch that best suits their preferences in sound and feel. Whether you prefer the deeper sound of POM or the fuller sound of nylon, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with distinct sound characteristics.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Smoothie linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, we see a clear distinction in weight. The Gateron Smoothie requires an actuation force of 40 grams, making it a lighter option compared to the WS Brown, whose actuation force is unknown. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the WS Brown requires 55 grams, indicating a heavier feel compared to the bottom out force of None grams for the Gateron Smoothie. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Gateron Smoothie would be the ideal choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the WS Brown offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Smoothie has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the WS Brown, which means that it may provide a slightly quicker response time. Gamers might prefer the Smoothie for its shorter travel distance, allowing for faster key presses. On the other hand, the WS Brown with its longer travel distance may suit those who prefer a more substantial key press feel with a bit more depth. Both switches offer different options for individuals based on their preference for travel distance but ultimately provide similar results in terms of key press functionality.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Smoothie 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 for $2.60.
The Wuque Studio WS Brown 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound, providing a satisfying and bass-heavy tone when pressed. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch's sound qualities are currently unknown. Both switches offer unique sound signatures that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preference and the setup in which they are used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is often described as buttery, creamy, and silky, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and effortless. On the other hand, the tactile feedback experience of the Wuque Studio WS Brown switch remains a mystery. Despite this, both switches are likely to provide a comfortable typing sensation that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort, catering to the preferences of different users.
Overall, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch each have their unique sound and feel qualities that can cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Smoothie is known for its thocky sound and buttery feel, the WS Brown offers a harmonious blend of responsiveness and comfort. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide an enjoyable typing experience, showcasing the diversity and innovation within the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron Smoothie linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, it ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch, then the Smoothie switch may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a harmonious blend of familiarity and innovation, with a medium-light actuation force and a familiar nylon housing and POM stem combination, then the WS Brown switch could be the ideal choice. Consider the sound and feel characteristics of each switch, as well as your own typing needs, to make an informed decision on which switch will enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that can cater to different preferences and typing styles.
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