Gateron Smoothie vs. Wuque Studio WS Dash
An in-depth look at the Gateron Smoothie and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the options can be overwhelming, especially when comparing distinct types like Gateron's Smoothie and Wuque Studio's WS Dash. The Gateron Smoothie is celebrated for its all-POM construction, providing a lightweight touch and a satisfying thocky sound signature that appeals to those seeking a refined yet tactile experience. Its buttery smoothness and subdued feel make it an excellent choice for typists and gamers who appreciate a quieter, high-quality switch without breaking the bank. On the other hand, the WS Dash switches stand out with their Hall Effect technology, delivering a bright, clacky sound profile, perfect for players and typists who revel in an engaging acoustic feedback. These switches promise a silky smooth keystroke and a delightful experience, particularly for those who cherish the craftsmanship and uniqueness of specialized switches. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the Gateron Smoothie and the Wuque Studio WS Dash, the differences in their housing materials are significant in shaping overall sound profiles and tactile responses. The Gateron Smoothie features a POM (polyoxymethylene) top housing which contributes to a deeper, more muted sound profile known for its pleasing resonance. In contrast, the WS Dash incorporates a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for a clearer resonance, making it more suitable for applications where RGB lighting is emphasized, as its translucency enhances the light’s visibility. Therefore, the choice of top housing directly impacts the auditory experience and aesthetic appeal when using the switches in illuminated setups.
On the bottom side, the Gateron Smoothie uses a POM housing like its top, thus reinforcing its characteristic muted sound profile. The WS Dash's bottom housing, however, is made of nylon, a classic material that introduces a deeper and fuller quality to the sound. Because nylon is a softer plastic, it absorbs sound more effectively than POM, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. The distinction between the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie and the nylon bottom housing of the WS Dash creates a marked contrast in how each switch responds to typing. While the qualities of the Smoothie consistently support its deeper tone throughout, the WS Dash’s design allows for a harmony of high-pitched clarity from the polycarbonate top and a rounded depth from the nylon bottom.
In summary, the combination of materials in both switches significantly influences their performance characteristics. The Gateron Smoothie’s matching POM housings produce a uniform sound profile, deep and consistent, whereas the WS Dash benefits from a blend of materials that provides a more complex sound dynamic. Users seeking a muted, cohesive experience may prefer the Smoothie, while those who value a more pronounced sound with sharper overtones may gravitate toward the WS Dash. Ultimately, the distinct combinations result in unique typing experiences, and understanding these differences allows users to select switches that best match their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Smoothie linear switch to the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Smoothie has a relatively heavier actuation force of 40 grams, while the WS Dash is lighter at 30 grams. This difference in actuation force means that the Smoothie may provide a more substantial feel, which some typists prefer for a more engaging experience, especially during extended typing sessions. However, the exact bottom out force for the Smoothie is unknown, while the WS Dash boasts a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorized as medium-light. This indicates that the WS Dash requires more force when bottoming out, contributing to a firmer typing experience. In summary, if you prefer a lighter switch for easier typing over long durations, the WS Dash with its lighter actuation force would be the better choice, whereas the Smoothie's heavier actuation may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feeling.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Smoothie linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, we find that the Smoothie has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Dash measures slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This makes the Gateron Smoothie the option with the longer travel distance. Both switches fall within a modern range that caters to gamers seeking quick response times, as they offer shorter distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial feel when pressing down on keys, the Smoothie’s 3.6 mm travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth than the WS Dash’s 3.5 mm. Ultimately, choosing the right switch depends on personal preference for responsiveness versus tactile depth, with both switches offering good performance for gaming enthusiasts.
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 Dash has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Dash for $7.49.
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 linear switch is characterized by a thocky sound profile, which delivers a deep, rich tone reminiscent of a soft thud upon key activation. This low-pitched, subdued sound signature provides an enjoyable auditory experience without overwhelming the ears. The subdued quality adds a layer of refinement, making it suitable for both gaming and typing scenarios. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Dash switch offers a bright and clacky sound signature, diverging significantly from the Smoothie’s deeper tones. The WS Dash's clackiness is likely to create a more pronounced auditory feedback that some users may find energizing, perfect for those seeking a dynamic typing experience. Thus, while both switches could provide satisfaction, they cater to different auditory preferences.
As for the feel, the Smoothie shines with descriptors like buttery, creamy, and silky, all of which contribute to an exceptionally smooth keystroke experience. Users can expect a seamless and uniform sensation while typing, as if gliding across the keys effortlessly. The thoughtful design of the Smoothie ensures minimal resistance, providing an ideal typing experience over extended use. The feel of the WS Dash is currently unknown, but if it follows the trend of other Hall Effect switches, it may offer a distinct tactile experience that could also be enjoyable in its own right. However, without specific descriptors at hand, it's challenging to make a definitive comparison in this area.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Smoothie and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches present unique auditory and tactile experiences tailored to different types of users. The Smoothie offers a low-pitched, thocky sound and an exceptionally smooth keystroke, making it ideal for those who appreciate a rich auditory experience coupled with a silky typing feel. On the other hand, the bright and clacky sound of the WS Dash may appeal to those looking for more auditory feedback in their typing. As these switches cater to varying preferences, the choice ultimately comes down to individual taste and typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Smoothie linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing experience expectations. If you prioritize an ultra-smooth, buttery feel combined with a thocky sound signature, the Gateron Smoothie is likely your best bet. Its lightweight touch and subdued acoustics make it an excellent choice for those who plan to type for extended periods or simply prefer a more gentle response, whether for gaming or everyday typing. On the other hand, if you seek a more tactile and responsive experience with a bit more feedback, the WS Dash, with its medium-light bottom-out force, offers a brighter, clacky sound profile that may suit your style better, especially for gaming scenarios where precision and rapid key presses are crucial. Ultimately, consider trying both switches to see which one you connect with more; your keyboard should be as unique as your typing style.
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