Gateron Weightlessness vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron Weightlessness and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Weightlessness and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile each offer unique tactile experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The Gateron Weightlessness is celebrated for its balanced tactile feel, providing a subtle to moderate bump that enhances the typing experience without overwhelming the user, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a more understated tactile feedback. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch stands out with its pronounced 70g bump and immersive resistance, delivering a robust tactile experience that results in a "thocky" sound, perfect for typists who desire a more engaging and satisfying auditory feedback. Both switches have their dedicated fan bases—while the Weightlessness is favored for its smooth operation and moderate feedback ideal for everyday typing, the WS Heavy Tactile appeals to those seeking a more pronounced tactile experience that can invigorate long typing sessions. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Weightlessness and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches, it is essential to note that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This shared material contributes to a unique auditory experience while typing, as nylon is known to provide a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relative softness of nylon allows for sound absorption, which results in a duller, rounder sound compared to switches made of harder plastics. This characteristic is evident in both models, emphasizing the smooth and muted acoustic property that users might enjoy when engaging with either switch.
Despite both switches featuring identical materials—nylon for both their top and bottom housings—there can be noteworthy differences in how these housings influence the switches' feel and sound. The Weightlessness and WS Heavy Tactile may differ in other aspects such as actuation force, tactile feedback, or spring design, which also play pivotal roles in the overall typing experience. The softer nylon housing will absorb sound similarly in both cases, but the nuances of actuation and tactile response could provide distinct sensations under typing conditions. Hence, while the fundamental acoustic outcomes due to the nylon material will likely resemble each other, users might still perceive differences in performance and tactile engagement.
In summary, both the Gateron Weightlessness and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches utilize nylon for their housings, creating a parallel in sound profiling that results in a richer auditory experience. The use of nylon in both switches ensures that the characteristics of a softer plastic dominate in the sound when typing, leading to an overall more pleasant auditory foundation. However, the differences in design and possibly other functional aspects will underscore individual preferences translated into tactile sensations, making each switch unique despite their material similarities. Therefore, while the acoustic properties may be similar due to the nylon housing, the actual tactile experience could vary significantly, influenced by additional design elements beyond just material choice.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Weightlessness switch has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the WS Heavy Tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Weightlessness switch requires more effort to actuate, making it potentially more suitable for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In terms of bottom out force, the WS Heavy Tactile has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is categorized as medium-heavy, whereas the bottom out force for the Weightlessness switch is not specified. Since the Weightlessness switch's bottom out force is unknown, we cannot make a direct comparison in that regard. However, the key takeaway is that if you prefer a lighter touch while typing, the WS Heavy Tactile is the better option, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel should consider the Gateron Weightlessness switch for its heavier actuation force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it slightly longer than the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. This difference means that users of the Weightlessness switch will experience a bit more depth when pressing down on a key, which can provide a fuller tactile feedback. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile's shorter travel distance may appeal more to gamers who favor quicker response times and more immediate actuation. While both switches offer tactile characteristics that enhance typing and gaming experiences, the Weightlessness switch provides a more pronounced depth, whereas the WS Heavy Tactile caters to those who prefer a snappier feel. Therefore, if you lean towards a more responsive key press, the WS Heavy Tactile might be the better choice, whereas the Weightlessness could be preferable for those who enjoy a more substantial key travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Weightlessness has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Weightlessness for $5.50.
The Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile comes in at $3.50 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 Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch offers a balanced sound profile that is subtler compared to the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch. The Weightlessness’s acoustic signature leans towards a more moderate sound, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer quieter typing experiences, while still allowing for some auditory feedback. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile is characterized by a "thocky" sound, thanks to its nylon housing. This switch produces a clacky, high-pitched sound that is crisp and sharp when pressed, creating an engaging auditory environment. Users can expect a resonant experience with the WS Heavy Tactile, making their typing sessions feel dynamic and lively, though the actual sound would also depend on the keyboard it is paired with and the choice of keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Weightlessness switch delivers a subtle to moderate tactile sensation, providing a smooth typing experience without overwhelming feedback. It strikes a balance that can be comfortable for both casual users and those who type extensively. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a more pronounced tactile experience, with a 70g bump that entails a firmer actuation force coupled with a lively, bouncy feedback. This switch feels invigorating and snappy, giving a sense of responsiveness that enhances the overall typing experience. Additionally, its sharp tactile feedback ensures a distinctly felt keypress, appealing to users who enjoy more pronounced tactile sensations.
In summary, the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch is ideal for those seeking a balanced, moderate tactile feel and a quieter sound profile, making it a versatile choice for varied typing environments. The Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, on the other hand, caters to users who appreciate a more pronounced tactile bump, a captivating thocky sound, and an overall engaging experience. While each switch provides a unique auditory and tactile experience, the choice between them ultimately depends on your personal preference for feedback intensity, sound profile, and typing sensation.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, consider your personal typing preferences and environment. If you favor a more subtle to moderate tactile experience and appreciate a balanced sound profile, the Weightlessness switch may be the ideal choice for you, especially in quieter settings where a less pronounced auditory feedback is beneficial. However, if you seek a more immersive and profound tactile feedback coupled with a satisfying "thocky" sound, the WS Heavy Tactile switch will likely cater to your needs. This switch's heavier bottom-out force and pronounced tactile bump offer a more engaging experience that is perfect for those who enjoy a lively typing sensation. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize a softer touch with minimal noise or a more robust and resonant keystroke that enhances your typing experience.
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