Gateron Type A vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron Type A and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options in the market are the Gateron Type A and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile. The Gateron Type A is a linear switch that stands out for its innovative design featured in Sillyworks' "Project Rehash." It offers a medium-weight feel and a sound signature on the deeper side of the sound spectrum, making it ideal for those looking for a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile is a tactile switch known for its 70g bump, immersive resistance, and satisfying "thocky" sound. It provides a more engaging and tactile typing experience compared to the Type A. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and benefits, providing users with different typing experiences. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Type A and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile utilize nylon as their housing material, offering a similar deep and full sound profile when typing. Nylon's softer plastic composition allows for better sound absorption compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in housing material creates a consistent typing experience in terms of sound quality for both switches.
Despite both switches using nylon for their housing, the Gateron Type A and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile may differ in their top and bottom housing design. The qualities of the nylon material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch, influencing the overall typing experience. The bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when you press down on the switch, while the top housing will affect the sound when you release a key. This difference in housing design may lead to slight variations in sound and feel between the two switches.
In terms of housing material, the Gateron Type A and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile provide a similar typing experience due to their use of nylon. The absorbing qualities of nylon contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a pleasant typing sound. While any differences in top and bottom housing design may affect the overall typing experience, the shared use of nylon ensures that both switches offer a consistent level of sound quality and tactile feedback. Ultimately, whether choosing the Type A or the WS Heavy Tactile, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with a focus on sound quality.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Type A linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, it is clear that they offer different experiences to the user. The Type A has a medium-light actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the WS Heavy Tactile has a medium-heavy actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. The Type A is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the WS Heavy Tactile, providing a more effortless typing experience for those who prefer lighter switches. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, ideal for those who crave a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to individual preference for either a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Type A linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two switches compared to the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.2 mm. The Type A offers a more traditional and deeper press, which some users may prefer for a more pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile provides a slightly shorter travel distance, which can result in faster response times, making it a popular choice among gamers. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a longer, more deliberate key press or a shorter, quicker response. Both switches offer different levels of tactile feedback, so users can expect similar results in terms of overall typing experience despite the difference in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile comes in at $3.50.
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 Type A linear switch offers a more neutral and subdued experience, providing a moderate and subtle sound profile suitable for various environments and users. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch delivers a more engaging and tactile sound, described as clacky, high-pitched, and resonant, creating a more pronounced auditory experience that adds to the typing sensation. Depending on personal preference and the accompanying keyboard setup, users can choose between a quieter and more subdued sound with the Type A or a more vibrant and immersive sound with the WS Heavy Tactile switch.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Type A linear switch's tactile qualities are not explicitly defined in the provided information. However, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch offers a range of descriptors such as accented, bouncy, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, indicating a switch with a strong tactile bump, lively feedback, and a responsive typing experience. Users seeking a switch with pronounced tactile feedback and a reactive feel may find the WS Heavy Tactile switch to be a more satisfying option compared to the Type A.
In conclusion, the Gateron Type A linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Type A provides a more neutral and subdued sound with unspecified tactile qualities, while the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a vibrant and engaging sound profile with pronounced tactile feedback. Depending on whether a user values a quieter typing experience or seeks a more tactile and responsive feel, they can make an informed choice between the two switches for their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Type A linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, consider your preferences for actuation force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-light switch with a deeper sound profile and moderate actuation force, the Type A may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a sharp, clacky sound and a tactile bump that is not too overwhelming, the WS Heavy Tactile switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your individual typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are seeking.
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