Gateron Weightlessness vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Weightlessness and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between tactile and linear can significantly influence your typing experience. The Gateron Weightlessness switches are renowned for their subtle to moderate tactile feedback, making them a perfect option for users who enjoy a bit of texture in their keystrokes without being overly pronounced. They feature a balanced sound profile that enhances the tactile experience, providing an engaging typing feel. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches embody the essence of linear switches; they blend classic materials with innovative design. Sporting a 22mm double-stage spring, the WS Yellow delivers a satisfying bounce and a lightweight feel, allowing for effortless keystrokes and a smooth, fluid typing experience. The distinct, creamy, and polished sound signature adds a layer of enjoyment for enthusiasts. While the Weightlessness is ideal for those who appreciate tactile feedback and a moderate auditory experience, the WS Yellow caters to users seeking a seamless, uninterrupted typing flow. 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
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 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 double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Weightlessness and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow are identical, with both switches featuring nylon for their top and bottom housings. Nylon is known for its softer properties compared to harder plastics, allowing it to absorb sound effectively. As a result, both switches yield a fuller and deeper sound profile, making them appealing to users who prioritize a pleasant auditory experience while typing. The shared use of nylon means that users can expect a similar reduction in the harshness often associated with harder materials, resulting in a more rounded and mellow sound when actuating these switches.
When examining the sound and feel characteristics imparted by the nylon housings, both switches will deliver comparable experiences either during typing or when bottoming out. The nylon top housing will contribute significantly to the sound produced when releasing a key, while the bottom housing will primarily influence the feedback felt upon bottoming out. This division means that although the materials are the same, users may notice subtle differences in actuation feel and sound based on their individual preferences and typing styles, but the overarching qualities of the switches will remain consistent thanks to the nylon construction.
Ultimately, the use of nylon in the Gateron Weightlessness and the WS Yellow means that both switches share key acoustic and tactile attributes. Typing on either switch will elicit a similar tactile response, with a deep, full sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience. Given their identical material choices, individuals investing in either option can anticipate a comparable performance in terms of sound, feedback, and durability, depending on their desired typing experience. Whether opting for the Gateron Weightlessness or the Wuque Studio WS Yellow, users are likely to enjoy the soft, sound-dampening benefits that nylon provides to both switches.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, we see notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Weightlessness switch has a specified actuation force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option for those who prefer less resistance while typing. However, the bottom out force for the Weightlessness is unavailable, which means we cannot directly compare it to the WS Yellow's bottom out force of 53 grams, classified as medium-light. The WS Yellow is therefore the heavier of the two switches in terms of bottoming out. For typists who appreciate a lighter feel, the Weightlessness would be more suitable, providing a less taxing experience for extended use. In contrast, the WS Yellow, with its heavier bottom out force, may deliver a more pronounced tactile feedback, ideal for users who favor a firmer typing experience. Overall, while the Weightlessness offers a lighter actuation, the absence of its bottom out force data leaves a gap for comparison against the WS Yellow's identifiable characteristics.
Travel distance
The Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the Weightlessness the shorter option and the WS Yellow the longer one. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the shorter travel distance of the Weightlessness may be more appealing, as it allows for quicker response times, which is often favored by gamers. Conversely, the WS Yellow, with its longer travel distance, may offer a more hearty and satisfying depth that some users appreciate. Depending on your preference for response speed versus tactile feedback, either switch could enhance your typing or gaming experience distinctly.
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 Yellow 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 is known for its balanced sound profile, which harmonizes well with its tactile feedback. It produces a subtle to moderate auditory response that is not overly loud, creating a tranquil typing environment that many users appreciate, particularly in office settings or shared spaces. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch has a sound signature that is familiar to enthusiasts, likely due to the classic materials used in its construction. While specific sound characteristics aren’t detailed, it can be inferred that the WS Yellow’s design contributes to a pleasant acoustic quality, though it may lack the pronounced auditory feedback that tactile switches offer. Both switches will produce varying sounds largely influenced by the choice of keyboard build and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Weightlessness switch provides a tactile experience that is described as subtle to moderate. This means that while you can feel a clear distinction when you engage a key, it's designed to be gentle, not overwhelming. Its tactile bump is noticeable but presents a mild challenge that encourages accuracy without being distracting. Conversely, the WS Yellow linear switch delivers a decidedly different experience. It is characterized by a creamy and polished feel, allowing for a smooth and buttery typing experience that emphasizes gliding motions without significant resistance. The lightweight nature of this switch complements the experience further, making keystrokes feel effortless. While the Weightlessness emphasizes tactile feedback, the WS Yellow excels in a seamless linear progression that many typists find fluid and enjoyable.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Weightlessness and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches offer unique experiences tailored to distinct typing preferences. While the Weightlessness provides a gentle tactile feedback paired with a balanced sound signature, the WS Yellow delivers a creamy, smooth linear feel with a sound that is familiar to enthusiasts. Despite their differing characteristics, users can expect enjoyable typing experiences from both switches, allowing for tailored preferences whether one favors tactile sensations or seamless keypresses.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, your preferences and intended use will play a crucial role. If you appreciate a tactile feel that is subtle to moderate, alongside a balanced sound profile, the Weightlessness switch may suit you well, especially if you enjoy a typing experience that's gentle yet engaging. This switch appeals to those who seek a finessed, polished touch while typing, making it ideal for long typing sessions where you desire comfort without being overly aggressive. On the other hand, if you gravitate towards a keyboard experience that emphasizes smoothness and fluidity, the WS Yellow linear switch is your go-to option. Its creamy, smooth feel paired with a delightful bounce due to its 22mm double-stage spring offers an effortlessly enjoyable typing experience. This switch is particularly fitting for gamers or typists who prefer rapid keystrokes without the interruption of tactile feedback. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value tactile feedback and a more traditional typing feel or if you desire speed and fluidity in your keystrokes. Select the switch that aligns with your unique typing style and needs, as both options bring distinct advantages to the mechanical keyboard landscape.
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