Gateron Smoothie vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi
An in-depth look at the Gateron Smoothie and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Smoothie and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Smoothie is hailed for its all-POM construction, providing a thocky sound signature and exceptional smoothness while maintaining a lightweight touch. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switches stand out for their innovative design that enhances RGB visuals with a mesmerizing light diffusion effect. While both switches are categorized as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Subdued', and 'Thocky', the WS Morandi offers a slightly different tactile experience with its UPE stem, creating a distinct dry and airy smoothness compared to the creamy feel of factory-lubed switches. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
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 Gateron Smoothie and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi both feature POM top and bottom housing materials, which create a unique sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted compared to other materials. This commonality in housing materials means that both switches offer a similar overall typing experience in terms of sound and feel. Users can expect a satisfying and consistent typing experience from either switch due to the shared characteristics of the POM housing.
However, where the two switches may differ is in the specific design and construction of their top and bottom housings. While both switches use POM material for both top and bottom housings, variations in design could lead to slight differences in sound and feel between the two switches. The Gateron Smoothie and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi may have subtle nuances in their typing experience based on how the POM material is utilized in each switch's housing design.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Smoothie and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi play a significant role in shaping the typing experience for users. Both switches benefit from the unique properties of POM material, which offers a pleasing sound profile and a deeper, more muted feel when compared to other housing materials. Whether it's the impact on bottom-out sound and feel from the bottom housing or the sound when releasing a key from the top housing, the POM material in both switches contributes to a consistent and enjoyable typing experience for users.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Smoothie linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, one can see that the Smoothie has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the WS Morandi's actuation force of 50 grams, making the Smoothie easier to type on for longer periods of time. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the WS Morandi has a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience compared to the Smoothie, which does not list a specific bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing feel may opt for the Smoothie, while those looking for a more substantial typing experience may choose the WS Morandi. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. The slight difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to the average user, but for those who prefer a slightly deeper key press, the Gateron Smoothie may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar typing experience with their relatively short travel distances.
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 Morandi has an MSRP of $4.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Morandi for $3.90.
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, both the Gateron Smoothie and the WS Morandi switches offer a low-pitched and subdued sound profile, with a thocky quality that provides a deep, satisfying tone when pressed. While the Smoothie is known for its thocky sound signature, the WS Morandi presents a slightly more muted sound profile, creating a more subtle auditory experience. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the Smoothie and WS Morandi switches deliver a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience. These switches provide a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation, allowing for effortless and uniform typing. The unique UPE stem in the WS Morandi switches offers a dry, airy, and wispy smoothness, distinct from the creamy feel of factory-lubed switches, providing a distinct typing experience. Overall, both switches prioritize smoothness and comfort, enhancing the overall typing feel for users.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Smoothie and the WS Morandi switches offer excellent sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Smoothie provides a thocky sound profile and a lightweight touch, the WS Morandi offers a unique UPE stem for a distinct typing experience. Whether you prefer a more muted sound or a slightly shorter total travel distance, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience that prioritizes smoothness and comfort. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on your personal preferences and typing style, but rest assured that you'll get similar results in terms of sound and feel with either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Smoothie linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, consider your preferences and priorities. If you value a lightweight touch, thocky sound, and remarkable smoothness, the Gateron Smoothie might be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a visually appealing switch with a medium weight, unique dry smoothness, and a slightly more muted sound profile, the WS Morandi could be the ideal option. Ultimately, both switches offer a smooth typing experience and innovative features, so choosing between them comes down to what characteristics are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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