Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° stand out as top contenders in the tactile and linear switch categories, respectively. The WS Heavy Tactile is widely praised for its 70g bump, immersive resistance, and unique "thocky" sound, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° is celebrated for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, which delivers unmatched smoothness, stability, and quiet typing. Each switch offers its own set of characteristics, with the WS Heavy Tactile being described as 'Accented,' 'Bouncy,' and 'Snappy,' while the Zero Degree 0° remains in a league of its own. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon is known for its softer nature, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This similarity in housing material suggests that both switches will produce a similar sound and feel while typing, with a focus on a duller and rounder sound that is characteristic of nylon. However, the WS Heavy Tactile also features a nylon top housing, while the Zero Degree 0° employs a polycarbonate top housing, which will likely lead to differences in sound profile between the two switches.
The difference in top housing materials between the WS Heavy Tactile and the Zero Degree 0° is significant in determining their sound profiles. The nylon top housing of the WS Heavy Tactile contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Zero Degree 0° creates a sharper and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for RGB lighting effects, as it is translucent. This variation in housing materials highlights how material selection can impact the overall typing experience and sound of a mechanical switch.
Furthermore, the division of housing materials between the top and bottom of a switch plays a role in the overall sound and feel of the switch. With the qualities of the housing materials split between the top and bottom, the bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. This distinction suggests that the nuances in housing materials between the WS Heavy Tactile and the Zero Degree 0° will provide a diverse typing experience, with differences in sound profiles depending on the material used in each housing component.
Weight
The Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them light switches in terms of initial pressure needed to activate a keypress. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the WS Heavy Tactile requires 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel compared to the Zero Degree 0° switch, which does not have a specified bottom out force. The heavier bottom out force of the WS Heavy Tactile may be preferred by those looking for a more solid and tactile typing experience, while the lack of information on the bottom out force of the Zero Degree 0° switch leaves it unclear how it compares in terms of keypress depth. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and the desired weight of the keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In comparison, the WS Heavy Tactile has a shorter travel distance than the Zero Degree 0° switch. The shorter travel distance of the WS Heavy Tactile may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Zero Degree 0° may provide a more satisfying depth for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
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 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 WS Heavy Tactile switch is known for its distinctive "thocky" sound profile that is both clacky and resonant, providing a sharp and immersive auditory experience during typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch's sound profile is not explicitly described, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, which may ultimately affect the overall typing experience regardless of the switch chosen.
In terms of feel, the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a combination of accented, bouncy, invigorating, sharp, and snappy characteristics, providing a tactile typing experience that is both engaging and responsive. The tactile bump of this switch is prominent and satisfying, making each keypress feel deliberate and enjoyable. Conversely, the feel of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch is not explicitly detailed, making it challenging to directly compare the two switches in this regard. Without specific information on the feel of the Zero Degree 0° switch, it may be difficult for newcomers to determine if it aligns with their preferences for typing comfort and feedback.
Overall, when considering the subjective qualities of the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch compared to the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch, the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a well-rounded tactile experience with a distinct sound profile and satisfying feel. However, without detailed information on the sound and feel of the Zero Degree 0° switch, it is hard to make a direct comparison. For newcomers looking for a tactile typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump and captivating sound, the WS Heavy Tactile switch may be a suitable option. If similar results are desired with the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch, further research and testing may be necessary to determine its compatibility with individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a keyboard switch that delivers a profound tactile experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, captivating sound, and an engaging typing sensation, then the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch that offers unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel for silent typing, then the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch is the better choice. Consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel when choosing between these two switches to find the one that best suits your needs.
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