Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° offer distinct experiences for users. The WS Light Tactile is praised for its smoothness and tactile bump, providing a satisfying typing experience with a neutral sound signature. Categorized as 'Stepped', 'Neutral', and 'Easy-to-press', this switch is ideal for those who value feedback and a comfortable typing feel. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° from Gateron stands out for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, offering unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise. While the WS Light Tactile focuses on tactility, the Zero Degree 0° emphasizes a quieter typing experience. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-staged spring
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the WS Light Tactile and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches are both made of polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when compared to other plastics. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal material for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows the lights to shine through the housing for a visually appealing aesthetic. Both switches share these characteristics due to their polycarbonate top housing, providing users with similar sound and lighting experiences.
However, where the two switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The WS Light Tactile features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic than polycarbonate, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing users with a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. While the top housing may have a greater impact on the overall sound of the switch, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, affecting the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, while both the WS Light Tactile and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches share the benefits of polycarbonate top housings in terms of sound quality and aesthetics, they differ slightly in their choice of bottom housing material. The use of nylon in the bottom housing adds a deeper and fuller sound profile to both switches, creating a unique typing experience for users. Ultimately, the combination of these different housing materials in each switch results in a well-balanced sound profile that caters to the preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the WS Light Tactile has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° does not have information available for its bottom out force. This makes the WS Light Tactile the lighter option between the two. The actuation force is crucial for triggering a keystroke, ensuring a responsive typing experience. Meanwhile, the bottom out force is significant for the feel of the keystroke, with a heavier force providing a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the WS Light Tactile offering a lighter typing experience and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° being an unknown variable in terms of bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the WS Light Tactile switch is 4 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the WS Light Tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Zero Degree switch. A longer travel distance can provide a more substantial keypress feel, which some users may prefer for typing or gaming. On the other hand, a shorter travel distance can result in quicker response times, which may be beneficial for gaming, especially for competitive players. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific use case, as both travel distances have their advantages and disadvantages.
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 Light Tactile 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
When it comes to sound, the WS Light Tactile switch is known for its neutral sound signature, which means it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. This makes it suitable for a wide range of users and purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced user, and whether you're using it at home or at work. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Zero Degree 0° linear switch is not available, so it's difficult to directly compare the two switches in this aspect. Remember that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the WS Light Tactile switch is described as having a stepped feel, which means it provides a tactile bump that feels like it has two stages. This gives a more mild tactile feedback compared to other switches, allowing users to feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel during the keystroke. Additionally, it is noted as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, information on the feel of the Zero Degree 0° linear switch is not provided, making it hard to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
In conclusion, the WS Light Tactile switch offers a smooth and perceptible tactile bump with a neutral sound signature, making it versatile for various users and settings. Its stepped feel and easy-to-press nature contribute to a comfortable and responsive typing experience. While information on the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch's sound and feel is lacking, it is safe to say that both switches may provide similar results in terms of sound and feel based on their design and intended use. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, you should consider your preference for tactile feedback and actuation force. The WS Light Tactile switch is a great choice for those who prefer a light tactile bump with a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is ideal for users seeking a smooth and silent typing experience without a tactile bump. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences for feel and sound.
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