Huano Strawberry Latte vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl
An in-depth look at the Huano Strawberry Latte and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering a mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Strawberry Latte and Wuque Studio WS Pearl both present distinctive yet appealing characteristics for avid typists and gamers alike. The Huano Strawberry Latte, recognized for its smooth keystrokes and balanced sound profile, offers a reliable experience without being overly loud or resonant – ideal for those seeking performance without distraction. In contrast, the WS Pearl’s innovative design incorporates ball-bearings that significantly reduce friction, yielding an exceptionally smooth feel that is often described as surreal. Additionally, the WS Pearl boasts a medium-high pitched sound signature that adds a unique auditory texture to the typing experience, catering to users who appreciate a touch of flair. Each switch comes with its unique advantages, making the choice ultimately dependent on individual preferences for tactile feedback and audio profile. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
16mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Strawberry Latte and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches, distinct characteristics emerge, particularly in their top housing compositions. The Strawberry Latte features a POK (polyketone) top housing, which is renowned for its smooth touch and superior durability. With a coefficient of friction of 0.04, the POK material provides a slight edge in smoothness over LY. This unique composition also boasts exceptional wear resistance, being 14 times stronger than traditional POM, and is more shock-resistant than Nylon and POM. In contrast, the WS Pearl utilizes a nylon top housing, a classic and time-tested choice, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition. While both materials create an appealing tactile experience, the POK in the Strawberry Latte may lead to a sharper, more clacky sound, while the nylon in the WS Pearl tends to absorb noise, resulting in a rounder, softer acoustic signature.
The bottom housing of both switches presents a different perspective, as both the Huano Strawberry Latte and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl utilize nylon material in this aspect. As a hallmark of switch design, nylon is celebrated for its ability to absorb sound, giving both switches a deeper and fuller auditory experience when pressed. This shared bottom housing material means that when users engage either the Strawberry Latte or the WS Pearl, they can expect similarly cushioned bottom-out sounds and feelings, enhancing tactile feedback. The production of sound characteristics, therefore, becomes more aligned between the two switches, as both harness the acoustic-absorbing qualities of nylon in their bottom designs.
Although both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, the contrast in their top materials significantly influences the overall performance of each switch. The blended effects pull the auditory and tactile experiences in different directions, where the Huano Strawberry Latte's POK top adds a dimension of smoothness and durability, enhancing its clackiness upon release. In comparison, the WS Pearl's nylon top may provide a more rounded auditory response upon key release, creating a soothing experience in contrast to the sharper sounds of the Strawberry Latte. This interplay between different housing materials emphasizes how the distinct contributions of each component lead to unique yet complementary switch profiles, allowing enthusiasts to select based on their preference for tactile feedback and sound characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, there's a notable difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Strawberry Latte has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the WS Pearl's actuation force of 30 grams, making it easier to press and ideal for those who type for extended periods. However, the WS Pearl has a heavier bottom out force of 58 grams, compared to the Strawberry Latte's 45 grams, which means that when fully pressed, the WS Pearl provides a more substantial feel. This contrast makes the Strawberry Latte better suited for users seeking a softer typing experience, while the WS Pearl could appeal to those who prefer a firmer push. Ultimately, the lighter actuation force of the Strawberry Latte contributes to a quick and effortless typing experience, while the heavier bottom out of the WS Pearl might enhance tactile feedback for more intentional keystrokes.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch measures 3.6 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This indicates that the Strawberry Latte offers a deeper keypress compared to the Pearl, which may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial tactile feel while typing or gaming. Although both switches feature relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard, for gamers seeking quicker response times, the WS Pearl's 3.5 mm travel distance could be more desirable. However, those who appreciate a more pronounced keypress may prefer the Strawberry Latte due to its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for depth versus responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Strawberry Latte has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Latte for $3.29.
The Wuque Studio WS Pearl comes in at $6.00 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 Huano Strawberry Latte switch strikes a balance that sits comfortably in the middle ground; it is neither overly quiet nor excessively resonant, contributing to a well-rounded auditory experience during typing. This balanced sound profile makes it suitable for both casual and professional users who may be concerned about disturbing others while still desiring a pleasing sound. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switch exhibits a medium-high pitched sound signature that leans towards the sharper end of the auditory spectrum. The sound produced by the WS Pearl can be characterized as clacky, clean, and bright, appealing to those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback but who may also want to avoid the richer bassiness of certain other switches. Consequently, users aiming for a more vibrant typing experience may prefer the WS Pearl, while those seeking moderation in sound may favor the Strawberry Latte.
When it comes to the tactile feel, the Huano Strawberry Latte switch is known for its smooth and consistent keystrokes, but the specific details about its tactile characteristics are not provided. The WS Pearl, however, takes the typing experience to another level with its ball-bearing design that significantly reduces friction, resulting in an exceptionally silky and creamy typing feel. This combination allows the user to glide effortlessly across the keys, providing a sensation that feels both luxurious and fluid. The tactile feedback from the WS Pearl enhances the typing experience by minimizing resistance, thereby making long typing sessions more enjoyable. Although the specifics regarding the feel of the Strawberry Latte are unclear, its smoothness indicates it offers a pleasant experience, albeit different from the uniquely rich sensations that the WS Pearl provides.
In conclusion, while both the Huano Strawberry Latte and Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches promise smooth performance, they cater to different auditory preferences and tactile sensations. The Strawberry Latte offers a moderate sound profile ideal for a variety of settings, whereas the WS Pearl generates a notably high-pitched sound that may appeal to those who enjoy a more crisp auditory feedback. On the tactile side, the WS Pearl’s ball-bearing technology grants an exceedingly smooth and engaging typing feel, setting it apart from the less defined but still commendable smoothness of the Strawberry Latte. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual priorities, whether that be sound, feel, or a balance of both.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter touch with key presses that require just 45 grams of force, the Strawberry Latte is an excellent choice. Its smooth keystrokes and balanced sound profile make it suitable for long typing sessions or gaming marathons, where speed and fluidity are essential. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more tactile experience with a bit of a firmer feel, the WS Pearl is the way to go. With a bottom-out force of 58 grams and its innovative ball-bearing design, it provides an extraordinarily smooth and creamy typing sensation that helps reduce friction during each keystroke. Additionally, the WS Pearl's medium-high pitched sound adds a sharper and clacky auditory feedback that some typists find more satisfying. Ultimately, consider your typing habits: if you enjoy a lighter, more straightforward experience that emphasizes ease of use, the Strawberry Latte is your best bet. However, if you value a unique, silky-feel combined with a distinct sound profile, the WS Pearl will likely stand out as your preferred option.
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