Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear 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 Silent Linear and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° both offer exceptional features for a premium typing experience. The WS Silent Linear stands out for its innovative stem railings with discreet cutouts that reduce switch noise without the need for silicone dampeners, resulting in precise and quiet keystrokes. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° from Gateron boasts a self-padding design and dual-rail structure that provides a smooth, stable, and silent typing experience. While the WS Silent Linear offers a blend of tranquility and precision, the Zero Degree 0° focuses on minimizing sound and absorbing noise. 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
15mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
In terms of housing materials, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon material is softer and absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. While both switches aim to provide a unique auditory experience, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound quality.
Despite their differences in top housing materials, both the WS Silent Linear and Zero Degree 0° switches share a nylon bottom housing. This consistency in housing material results in a similar deep and full sound profile for both switches. The softer nature of nylon allows for the absorption of sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, when comparing the sound produced by the bottom housing of these switches, users can expect a consistent and familiar auditory experience. However, it is important to note that the top housing material can still play a significant role in influencing the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, the choice between the WS Silent Linear and the Zero Degree 0° ultimately comes down to personal preferences in sound profile. The WS Silent Linear with its nylon housing materials provides a deeper and fuller sound experience, ideal for those who prefer a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° with its polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy a more clear and resonant sound. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, showcasing the importance of housing materials in determining the overall sound experience of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is clear that they have different characteristics. The WS Silent Linear has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is lighter compared to the WS Silent Linear, but the bottom out force is not provided. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Zero Degree 0° for longer typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the WS Silent Linear for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force required to trigger a keystroke.
Travel distance
The Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. While the difference in travel distance is minimal, it can still impact the overall feel and response of the switch. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the WS Silent Linear switch with its slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar experience overall, with only a slight variation in travel distance.
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 Silent Linear 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 Silent Linear switch is known for its neutral, muted, and subdued characteristics, providing a moderate and quiet typing experience suitable for various settings. In contrast, information regarding the sound of the Zero Degree 0° switch is not available, but it likely offers a quieter typing experience due to its self-padding design and sound-absorbing qualities. Both switches are likely to provide a pleasant typing experience in terms of sound, with the WS Silent Linear offering a slightly more nuanced sound profile.
In terms of feel, the WS Silent Linear switch is described as mild, offering a gentle and approachable typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone for most users. On the other hand, information regarding the feel of the Zero Degree 0° switch is not available, but its innovative dual-rail structure suggests a smooth and stable typing experience with a soft, elastic feel. Both switches are likely to provide a comfortable typing experience, with the WS Silent Linear offering a slightly softer and more gentle feel.
Overall, both the WS Silent Linear and the Zero Degree 0° switches offer unique features that cater to users looking for a quiet and smooth typing experience. While the WS Silent Linear emphasizes reduced noise with its ingeniously designed stem railings, the Zero Degree 0° focuses on smoothness and stability with its self-padding design. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience that combines tranquility with precision. Ultimately, users can expect a high level of performance and comfort from both switches, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable typing experience regardless of choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the WS Silent Linear and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches, consider the bottom out force, sound profile, and feel of each switch. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a typing experience that blends tranquility with precision, the WS Silent Linear would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with innovative self-padding design and a soft, elastic feel that minimizes sound and noise, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° could be the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on your preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
Mentioned in this article
