Wuque Studio WS POM+ vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Wuque Studio WS POM+ and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ and WS Silent Linear both emerge as compelling choices, each catering to unique preferences and scenarios. The WS POM+ switch is celebrated for its all-POM construction, which provides a deep, satisfying "thock" sound alongside a buttery-smooth keystroke, making it an excellent option for typists and gamers who desire a more pronounced auditory feedback and feel. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear offers a more subdued typing experience, perfect for office environments or shared spaces, as it boasts ingeniously designed stem railings that minimize noise without compromising responsiveness or the satisfying bottom-out feel. Although both switches are linear, lending them a smooth and consistent keystroke, the WS Silent Linear stands out for its focus on quiet performance while the WS POM+ charms with its auditory presence. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Wuque Studio WS POM+ and the WS Silent Linear, both switches showcase the use of distinct materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The WS POM+ utilizes POM (Polyoxymethylene) for both its top and bottom housings, which is praised for delivering a unique sound that leans towards being deeper and more muted. This cohesive use of POM ensures that the auditory and tactile experience remains consistent throughout the actuation of the switch, leading to a pleasingly uniform sound that emphasizes a more subdued audio signature. The POM material stands out due to its rigidity, which helps to produce a clean bottom-out sound while still providing a satisfying tactile feedback.
In contrast, the WS Silent Linear employs nylon for both its top and bottom housings. Nylon, known for its softer nature, offers a more pronounced deep and fuller sound profile. The absorption characteristics of nylon lead to a type of sound that is not only deeper but also inherently rounder and duller, creating a noticeable variance when compared to the POM-housed alternatives. Given that both the top and bottom housings utilize the same material, the synergy between the nylon components allows for a more harmonized sound experience throughout the entire keystroke, thereby enhancing the overall typing feel and auditory feedback.
Despite these differences, the WS POM+ and WS Silent Linear are positioned to deliver an equally satisfying typing experience, albeit with contrasting acoustic properties. Those who prefer the muted and refined character of POM will find solace in the WS POM+, while aficionados of softer, more rounded sounds will appreciate the WS Silent Linear. Ultimately, while the materials differ—POM versus nylon—the resulting sound profiles reflect the unique characteristics of their respective materials. Users can generally expect a fulfilling actuation from both switches, though the nuanced qualities of each housing effect will yield those distinct auditory experiences upon pressing and releasing the keys.
Weight
The Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch and the WS Silent Linear linear switch present a notable contrast in their actuation and bottom out forces. The WS POM+ has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it a medium-light option, and a bottom out force of 55 grams. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear has an unknown actuation force but boasts a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorized as medium-heavy. This difference indicates that the WS POM+ is the lighter option, ideal for those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, as it requires less force to actuate. Conversely, the WS Silent Linear, with its heavier bottom out force, caters to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience, as it provides a firmer response when keying. Overall, while the WS POM+ offers a lighter touch for a smoother experience, the WS Silent Linear delivers a stronger tactile sensation, appealing to different user preferences.
Travel distance
The Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, slightly longer than the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. While both switches offer relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, the WS POM+ provides a bit more depth for users who appreciate a heartier feel when pressing keys. This 0.1 mm difference could cater to those who prefer a more pronounced feedback during typing or gaming, making the WS POM+ a better choice for those who value that extra depth. Conversely, the WS Silent Linear’s 3.5 mm travel distance may appeal to users seeking quicker actuation and faster response times, as shorter distances can enhance performance in gaming scenarios. Ultimately, both switches deliver a smooth linear experience, but the WS POM+ offers a slightly longer travel for those who desire a more substantial press, while the WS Silent Linear caters to those prioritizing responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ comes in at $3.90, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear comes in at $4.20.
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 POM+ linear switch is known for its deep, satisfying "thock" sound signature, providing a rich auditory experience that many typists find pleasing. The sound of this switch is enhanced by its all-POM construction, which contributes to a buttery-smooth keystroke, lending an overall acoustic richness that can elevate the typing experience. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear focuses on minimizing noise without sacrificing responsiveness. It features discreet cutouts that reduce sound while still providing a satisfying bottom-out feel. The auditory profile of the WS Silent Linear is described as neutral, muted, and subdued, making it an excellent option for environments where quieter operation is preferred, such as offices.
When it comes to feel, the WS POM+ offers an exceptional typing experience characterized by smooth actuation and a robust bottom-out that enhances the tactile feedback. However, specific descriptors for the feel of the WS POM+ switch are lacking in detail. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch is designed to deliver a mild feel, offering a gentle typing experience that straddles the line between comfort and precision. This makes it accessible to a wide range of users, ensuring that the switches’ characteristics align well with common preferences for an unobtrusive typing experience.
In conclusion, both the WS POM+ and WS Silent Linear switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The WS POM+ stands out for its rich auditory qualities and smooth keystrokes, appealing to those who enjoy a more traditional mechanical keyboard experience. Meanwhile, the WS Silent Linear switch is ideal for users seeking a quieter, more office-friendly option without the typical dampening sensation. Ultimately, whether you favor the pronounced "thock" of the POM+ or the subtle, muted sound of the Silent Linear, both switches promise a fulfilling typing experience tailored to your needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch and the WS Silent Linear switch, consider your specific typing environment and personal preferences. If you prioritize a balance of a satisfying auditory experience with a lighter touch, the WS POM+ is an excellent choice. Its deep "thock" sound and buttery smooth keystroke make it ideal for casual typists or those who enjoy a more tactile feedback while typing without an overwhelming force requirement. On the other hand, if you need a more muted typing experience—perhaps in a shared workspace where noise can be a distraction—the WS Silent Linear switch would be more appropriate. Its slightly heavier actuation force and ingenious design allow for a quieter yet responsive experience, making it perfect for focused work sessions without the usual noise associated with mechanical keyboards. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your priority on sound versus feel, along with the environments in which you’ll be using your keyboard.
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