Jwick Taro vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Jwick Taro and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Jwick Taro, a tactile switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear, a linear switch. Both switches offer unique features and benefits that make them stand out in the world of mechanical keyboards. The Taro switches are best known for their comfy subdued color scheme, which mirrors the cozy typing experience they provide. With a snappy, medium-level of tactility and acute and crisp clacks, these switches offer a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switches by Wuque elevate your office and work experience with their exceptional design. Featuring ingeniously designed stem railings with discreet cutouts, these linear switches reduce switch noise while delivering unparalleled responsiveness. Unlike traditional silent switches, the WS Silent Linear switches do not use silicone dampeners, resulting in a distinct typing experience that combines tranquility and precision. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Jwick Taro and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear both have different housing materials for their top and bottom housings. The Taro features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. The translucency of the polycarbonate is especially useful for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear has a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon material absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of the bottom housings, both the Taro and the WS Silent Linear use nylon. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its ability to absorb more sound. The nylon bottom housing creates a similar effect in both switches, providing a consistent sound experience. However, the Taro's nylon bottom housing may have a softer impact on the bottom-out sound and feel compared to the WS Silent Linear.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall sound of the switches, it becomes clear that these materials play distinct roles. The top housing, whether it is polycarbonate or nylon, has a significant impact on the sound when a key is released. The characteristics of the material will influence the overall tone and resonance. On the other hand, the bottom housing, also made of nylon in both switches, affects the bottom-out sound and feel. It determines the sharpness and depth of the sound when a key is fully pressed down. Therefore, while the housing materials may differ between the Taro and the WS Silent Linear, they each contribute to the overall sound experience in their own unique ways.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Jwick Taro tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, there are a few notable differences. Firstly, the actuation forces of both switches are unavailable, meaning the specific force required to trigger a keystroke is unknown for both switches. However, it is worth mentioning that both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of their bottom out forces.
In terms of weight, it is important to consider personal preferences. Some individuals prefer lighter switches, as they enable longer periods of typing without causing fatigue. This makes them ideal for keyboards used during work or extended gaming sessions. Conversely, others prefer a heavier push feel in order to have a more substantial typing experience. For those individuals, it is recommended to choose options with heavier forces.
Although the exact actuation forces are unknown, it can be inferred that both the Taro and WS Silent Linear switches offer a similar typing experience due to their comparable bottom out forces. The Taro has a bottom out force of 67 grams, while the WS Silent Linear has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams - both falling into the medium-heavy range. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of the force required to fully press the keys for both switches.
Travel distance
The Jwick Taro tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch have different travel distances. The Taro has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the WS Silent Linear has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Although the difference between the two switches is minimal, it can still be noticeable to some users. If you prefer a slightly shorter travel distance, the WS Silent Linear would be the better choice for you. This can be beneficial for those who prioritize faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly longer travel distance, the Jwick Taro would be the more suitable option. This can provide a more satisfying depth to the key press for those who prefer a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
The Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear comes in at $4.20 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
When it comes to sound, the Jwick Taro tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, with a moderate level of actuation force. This makes it suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether they plan to use it at home or in a work environment. While it produces a moderately loud sound, it is not excessively loud or clacky. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch also offers a neutral sound profile, but with some additional qualities. It is described as both muted and subdued, meaning it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. It offers a more subtle sound signature and aims to minimize noise associated with mechanical keyboards. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Jwick Taro tactile switch provides a buttery and stepped typing experience. The term buttery implies a smooth and fluid keystroke, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The stepped characteristic refers to a tactile switch that has two stages, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. This gives it a mild tactile feel, making it less pronounced compared to hypertactile switches. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch offers a mild typing experience. It provides a more gentle keystroke compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. This makes it approachable to most users, as its qualities fall within a safe and middle-ground zone.
In summary, both the Jwick Taro tactile switch and Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch offer their own unique subjective qualities. In terms of sound, the Taro provides a moderately loud and snappy experience, while the WS Silent Linear aims for a softer and quieter sound with a more subtle signature. In terms of feel, the Taro offers a buttery and stepped typing experience, while the WS Silent Linear provides a mild and gentle keystroke. Depending on personal preferences, one can choose between these switches to achieve their desired typing experience. It is important to consider other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, as they can also influence the overall sound and feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the Jwick Taro tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch have their unique features and advantages. The Taro switch is best suited for those who appreciate a cozy and subtle typing experience. With its medium-level tactility and crisp clacks, it offers a comfortable and enjoyable typing sensation. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch by Wuque is perfect for individuals who prioritize a quiet and responsive typing experience for their office or work environment. With its ingeniously designed stem railings and discreet cutouts, it reduces switch noise while maintaining unparalleled responsiveness and a satisfying bottom-out. Additionally, the WS Silent Linear switch offers a mild typing experience, appealing to a wide range of users. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your preference for either a cozy and subdued typing experience (Taro) or a quiet and precise typing experience (WS Silent Linear).
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