Gateron Type A vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl
An in-depth look at the Gateron Type A and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often look for specific characteristics to enhance their typing or gaming experience. The Gateron Type A switch, a product of Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" / SLAY series, strikes an admirable balance between playability and acoustics, featuring medium-weight actuation along with a deeper, subdued sound profile. This makes it an enticing option for those who prefer a more muted auditory feedback while enjoying a traditional feel. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Pearl offers a uniquely smooth keystroke experience, thanks to its innovative ball-bearing design that reduces friction. This switch tends to produce a medium-high pitched sound, appealing to users who desire an elevated clicky experience without excessive noise. Ultimately, the decision between these two linear switches largely depends on personal preferences regarding sound and tactile feedback; 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
30g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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
16mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Type A and Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, which establishes a solid foundation for comparison. As described, the nylon material is known for its softer and more absorptive qualities compared to harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This shared characteristic means that both switches will likely provide a similarly pleasant auditory experience characterized by a duller and rounder sound. The use of nylon in both instances suggests that users can expect a consistent typing experience when it comes to sound quality, as both switches leverage the inherent properties of this classic housing material.
While the top and bottom housings of both switches are composed of nylon, it is important to note that the nuances of their design can still influence the typing experience. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out feel and sound, while the top housing influences the sound upon releasing a key. Since both the Type A and WS Pearl incorporate nylon in their housings, users will probably find that the differences in typing feel remain subtle rather than drastic. Each housing's contributions will interact with the switch mechanism, but the consistency of material means that the overall sonic qualities will maintain a similar character across both switches.
Ultimately, while the Gateron Type A and Wuque Studio WS Pearl both utilize nylon, the specific designs and mechanisms within each switch can bring about minor distinctions in feel or performance. However, the shared use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings ensures that users will experience a comparably rich sound profile when typing. For enthusiasts or casual users alike, these switches will create a harmonious typing atmosphere where the qualities of nylon play a central role in the user experience, allowing for a satisfying and immersive interaction with the keyboard.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Type A linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Type A switch requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams, while the WS Pearl is notably lighter at 30 grams. This means that typists and gamers who prefer a softer touch may find the WS Pearl more suitable for extended use, as it demands less pressure to register a keystroke. Although the WS Pearl has a higher bottom out force of 58 grams compared to the Type A's 55 grams, both switches provide a relatively comfortable typing experience, albeit with a slightly more substantial feel in the latter. Ultimately, while the Type A is for those who appreciate a bit more resistance when typing, the WS Pearl serves those who favor easier presses for longer sessions.
Travel distance
The Gateron Type A linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference means that the Type A offers a more traditional and deeper keystroke experience, appealing to users who appreciate a more pronounced feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the WS Pearl, with its shorter travel distance, caters to gamers and those seeking faster response times, which can enhance performance in fast-paced scenarios. While both switches serve their purposes well, the Type A is better suited for those who enjoy a more substantial key feel, while the WS Pearl is ideal for those who prefer quicker actuation and responsiveness.
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 Pearl comes in at $6.00.
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 deeper sound profile that is characterized by neutrality and subtlety. This means that while it produces a noticeable sound when pressed, it remains moderate enough to not be distracting, making it suitable for both home and office environments. Its subdued nature provides a dampened auditory feedback that enhances the typing experience without overwhelming the senses. In contrast, the WS Pearl produces a medium-high pitched sound signature that may create a more noticeable auditory environment during use. This difference in pitch can lead to a contrast in the overall typing experience, depending on personal preferences and the types of activities for which the keyboard is used.
When considering the feel of each switch, the Type A switch is designed to offer a medium-weight experience, providing a balanced actuation force that many users find comfortable for extended use. However, specific descriptors regarding its tactile feedback are not provided. On the other hand, the WS Pearl switch elevates the smoothness of each keystroke significantly through the use of ball-bearings, resulting in an incredibly seamless typing sensation. This unique characteristic makes the WS Pearl stand out for users prioritizing a supremely fluid tactile experience, which differs from the more conventional feel of the Type A.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Type A and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Type A leans towards a deeper, more subdued auditory experience, paired with a balanced feel for general typing. Meanwhile, the WS Pearl offers a higher-pitched sound profile and a remarkably smooth feel due to its unique ball-bearing design. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to whether you prefer a more traditional typing experience or one that emphasizes a luxurious smoothness, as both can provide enjoyable results but in subtly different ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Type A linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences and typing style. If you lean towards a medium-light switch that combines a nice balance of actuation force and sound signature, the Gateron Type A is an excellent option. It's particularly suitable if you appreciate a deeper and more subdued auditory experience while typing, making it a great choice for both work and casual use without being too intrusive. In contrast, if you desire a switch that delivers a uniquely smooth typing experience enhanced by ball-bearing technology, the WS Pearl would be the better fit. This switch offers a medium actuation force along with a medium-high pitched sound signature, making it ideal for an expressive yet refined audible feedback, especially if you're a fan of smoother keystrokes. Thus, whether you prioritize a deeper sound and moderate force for versatility or a super smooth tactile experience with a lively tone, each switch has distinct advantages tailored to your needs.
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