Gateron Weightlessness vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Gateron Weightlessness and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, preferences often boil down to the feel and sound of the keys. The Gateron Weightlessness switches offer a tactile typing experience, featuring a subtle to moderate tactile bump that provides satisfying feedback with every keystroke. Their balanced sound profile enhances the tactile characteristics, making them a popular choice for those who enjoy a more engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches cater to users seeking a quieter alternative without sacrificing performance. These switches are ingeniously designed with stem railings and discreet cutouts that minimize noise while delivering exceptional responsiveness and a satisfying bottom-out feel. Unlike traditional silent switches, the WS Silent Linear switches do away with silicone dampeners, providing a typing experience that is both tranquil and precise. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Weightlessness and the WS Silent Linear depends on whether you prefer the tactile feedback of a bump or the smooth, silent action of a linear switch. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When it comes to the housing materials of the Gateron Weightlessness and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear, both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This shared choice of material suggests that they will have similar acoustic characteristics. Nylon, being a softer plastic, contributes significantly to sound absorption, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. As a result, users can expect both switches to produce a rounder, more muted auditory experience when typing. This sameness in housing material means that typing on either switch will yield comparable sound qualities, favoring a quieter environment which is often sought after by mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
However, while the materials may be the same, the overall design and engineering of the switches could introduce differences in the typing experience. Although both the Weightlessness and the WS Silent Linear benefit from the sound-dampening qualities of nylon, other factors such as the internal mechanisms, spring tension, and possible lubrication can alter the feel and acoustics of each switch. Therefore, while users will enjoy the same richness in sound due to the nylon composition, the tactile feedback and keystroke feeling could still vary, providing a unique typing experience for each switch.
In summary, while the Gateron Weightlessness and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear shares nylon as a construction material for their housings, leading to similar sound profiles, they may still offer distinct typing sensations due to other design features. The combination of nylon's properties with the unique engineering behind each switch will determine the ultimate feel and feedback users experience. Thus, even though the foundational material is identical, the complete package may result in different experiences tailored to the preferences of the typist.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch, there is a distinct difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Weightlessness has an actuation force of 50 grams, which suggests a moderate effort required to trigger a keystroke, making it suitable for long typing sessions. However, its bottom out force remains unknown, leaving a gap in the overall weight profile. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear has an undisclosed actuation force, but a defined bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which indicates a heavier resistance when reaching the key's maximum travel distance. Consequently, for users who prefer a lighter touch, the Weightlessness would be the favorable option due to its known actuation weight, while the WS Silent Linear's heavier bottom out force provides a more substantial feel, catering to those who enjoy a firmer typing experience. Overall, while the actuation force of the Weightlessness is lighter, the WS Silent Linear presents a heavier bottom out force, appealing to different user preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch exhibit different travel distances, which can significantly influence typing experience. The Weightlessness has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the WS Silent Linear has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that if you opt for the Gateron Weightlessness, you will experience a more responsive feel due to its shorter travel distance, making it a favorable choice for gamers seeking quicker response times. Conversely, the WS Silent Linear's longer travel distance provides a more substantial engagement, which some users may find preferable for a deeper typing experience. Therefore, if you prioritize quickness and responsiveness, the Gateron Weightlessness may be the better option; however, if you prefer a fuller sensation when pressing keys, the WS Silent Linear would be more suitable.
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 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Weightlessness switches produce a balanced sound profile that complements their subtle to moderate tactile feedback, allowing for an unmistakable typing experience without overwhelming noise. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switches are designed to be muted and subdued, producing a softer sound than traditional mechanical switches. Their unique design, which omits silicone dampeners, still maintains a neutral sound signature, making them suitable for both beginners and more experienced users. Overall, while both switches aim for a quieter typing experience, the Weightlessness leans towards a balanced auditory feedback, while the WS Silent Linear focuses on reducing noise to a greater extent.
When considering the feel, the Weightlessness switches offer a subtle to moderate tactile feel that provides a satisfying typing experience without being overly pronounced. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear switches deliver a mild experience, allowing for a gentle typing sensation that caters to a wide range of users. This makes the response of the WS Silent Linear very approachable, striking a balance that can satisfy both casual typing needs and refined precision. While both switches aim to provide comfort and responsiveness, the tactile nature of the Weightlessness may appeal to those who appreciate feedback, whereas the WS Silent Linear caters to those who prefer smoother, linear action.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch cater to distinct preferences while offering unique benefits. The Weightlessness switch strikes a delicate balance between tactile feedback and sound, making it suitable for users who enjoy some tactile engagement. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear switch emphasizes a muted auditory experience and gentle feel, making it ideal for quiet environments. Each switch excels in its respective area, and your choice will depend heavily on whether you prefer tactile feedback or a smoother, quieter typing sensation.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a tactile feedback that provides a subtle to moderate sensation during typing while maintaining a balanced sound profile, the Weightlessness switch can enhance your typing experience—ideal for those who appreciate feedback without being overly loud. This switch is particularly suitable for environments where a bit of noise is acceptable, yet you still want to avoid aggressive clacking sounds. On the other hand, if you are looking for a smooth and quiet typing experience, especially in an office setting or for prolonged typing sessions, the WS Silent Linear switch is your best bet. With its medium-heavy actuation force and noise-reducing design, this switch allows you to type with precision while minimizing disruptions around you. Ultimately, consider your typing style, work environment, and whether you prefer tactile sensation or a silent, linear experience to guide your decision.
Mentioned in this article
