Gateron Type S vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron Type S and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
We're delighted to introduce two distinct mechanical keyboard switches that cater to different preferences and typing styles. On one hand, we have the Gateron Type S, a linear switch from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" that offers a weightier keystroke with a 65g bottom-out and a neutral yet deep sound signature. This switch is ideal for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, we have the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile, a tactile switch known for its 70g bump, immersive resistance, and captivating "thocky" sound from nylon housings. This switch provides a bouncy and invigorating typing experience that is sure to satisfy tactile enthusiasts. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
18mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Type S and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile utilize nylon as their housing material, resulting in a similar typing experience for users. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. The softer nature of nylon also contributes to a duller and rounder sound, making typing on switches with nylon housing a quieter and more satisfying experience overall.
While both switches share the same nylon housing material, the distribution of nylon between the top and bottom housings may vary. The bottom housing of a switch typically has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Users may notice subtle differences in sound and feel depending on how the nylon material is utilized throughout the switch. Despite these variations, the overall typing experience on both the Type S and WS Heavy Tactile switches remains consistent due to their shared use of nylon housing.
In conclusion, the Gateron Type S and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches offer a comparable typing experience thanks to their shared use of nylon housing material. The deeper and fuller sound profile, as well as the quieter and more satisfying typing feel, are characteristics that both switches possess. Whether it be the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound or the top housing influencing the key release sound, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel across both switches due to their common use of nylon housing.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Type S linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, it is clear that the Type S is the lighter of the two with an actuation force of 55 grams compared to the WS Heavy Tactile's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the WS Heavy Tactile requires a heavier 70 grams compared to the Type S's 65 grams. This means that the Type S provides a slightly lighter typing experience in terms of actuation force, while the WS Heavy Tactile offers a heavier bottom out force for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, so while the overall typing experience may differ slightly between the two, users can expect similar results in terms of force requirements for typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing weight and feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Type S linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. The Type S offers a more traditional distance, while the WS Heavy Tactile provides a slightly shallower experience. Gamers may lean towards the shorter travel distance of the WS Heavy Tactile for quicker response times, while others may prefer the more substantial feel of the Type S. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Type S 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Type S linear switch provides a neutral and subdued typing experience, with a pleasing and deep acoustic profile that is suitable for a variety of users and environments. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch offers a more clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound, providing a sharp and immersive auditory experience for those who enjoy a more crisp and percussive typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Type S linear switch does not have specific descriptors provided, but its 65g bottom-out weight likely offers a satisfying keystroke experience with a moderate amount of resistance. In comparison, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch is described as accented, bouncy, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, providing a tactile feedback sensation that is both pronounced and lively, creating an immersive typing experience with each keypress.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron Type S linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch offer unique sound and feel qualities, they cater to different preferences in typing experiences. The Type S provides a neutral and subdued sound profile with a weightier keystroke, while the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a more sharp and resonant sound with a bouncy and invigorating tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, as both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with their own distinct characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Type S linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and tactile feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a neutral and subdued sound, the Gateron Type S may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force with a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound profile, along with an accented, bouncy, invigorating, sharp, and snappy tactile feel, then the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing preferences and the specific experience you are seeking in a mechanical keyboard switch.