Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches are both excellent options, each offering unique features to enhance your typing experience. The WS Aurora Clear is ideal for those seeking a smooth and high-pitched typing feel, thanks to its transparent polycarbonate top housing and UHMWPE bottom housing that allow for maximum RGB lighting customization. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° stands out for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, providing unparalleled smoothness and stability while also reducing noise during typing. 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
53g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged stainless steel
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° are quite similar in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect a similar sound profile from both switches when it comes to the top housing material.
However, where the switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The WS Aurora Clear utilizes UHWMPE for its bottom housing, resulting in a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks during typing. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° opts for a nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound compared to the UHWMPE bottom housing of the WS Aurora Clear. This difference in bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound of the switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the WS Aurora Clear and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a similar sound profile, the bottom housing materials of UHWMPE and nylon offer distinct characteristics that can greatly influence the overall typing experience. Users looking for a brighter and more resonant sound may prefer the WS Aurora Clear, while those seeking a deeper and fuller sound profile may lean towards the Gateron Zero Degree 0°. It's important to consider the impact of both the top and bottom housing materials in making an informed decision.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that the WS Aurora Clear has a heavier actuation force of 53 grams compared to the 45 grams of the Zero Degree 0°. However, the bottom out force of the WS Aurora Clear at 63.5 grams is also heavier than the nonexistent bottom out force of the Zero Degree 0°. This means that the WS Aurora Clear provides a more substantial typing experience with both a higher actuation and bottom out force. The weight of a switch is an important factor to consider, with lighter switches being preferred by some for longer typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the heavier push feel for a more solid typing experience. In this case, the WS Aurora Clear would be better suited for those looking for a heavier typing experience, while the Zero Degree 0° would provide a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the WS Aurora Clear linear switch is 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the WS Aurora Clear has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Zero Degree 0° switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers seeking faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may result in a slightly different feel when typing or gaming. If you prefer a switch with a slightly longer travel distance for a more substantial keypress feel, the WS Aurora Clear might be the better choice. Conversely, if you prefer a switch with a slightly shorter travel distance for quicker response times, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch could be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific feel that each individual user is looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
The Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear comes in at $8.00 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
The WS Aurora Clear linear switch is known for its high-pitched sound, delivering a sharp and crisp typing experience that may be preferred by those who enjoy a more vibrant acoustics profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch focuses on reducing noise with its innovative design, providing a softer, more muted typing sound that absorbs sound effectively. When it comes to feel, the WS Aurora Clear switch is characterized as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is effortless and uniform. In contrast, the specific feel of the Zero Degree 0° switch is unknown. Overall, both switches provide unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences among users. Ultimately, the choice between the WS Aurora Clear and Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches will depend on individual preference for sound profile, typing feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when it comes to choosing between the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, you'll want to consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a smooth and high-pitched typing feel with excellent RGB lighting customization, the WS Aurora Clear may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize silent typing with unparalleled smoothness and stability, the Zero Degree 0° could be the ideal option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to consider what aspects are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your decision.
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