Gateron CM vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron CM and Wuque Studio WS Yellow are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and benefits for users. The CM switches set themselves apart with their full nylon housing, which not only adds durability but also enhances the sound quality, creating a richer and deeper sound signature. These switches are also factory-lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing journey that feels like gliding gracefully with each keystroke. Additionally, the lengthened dual-staged spring of the CM switches provides a bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Yellow switches offer a timeless fusion of classic materials and cutting-edge engineering. With a 22mm double-stage spring, they deliver a satisfying bounce and a delightful typing experience. These switches have a familiar sound signature that enthusiasts adore and are crafted to be lightweight, resulting in effortless and fluid keystrokes. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision when choosing the ideal switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CM and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches both feature nylon top and bottom housings. These nylon housings contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. The nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches are likely to offer similar sound characteristics due to their shared housing material.
However, it is important to note that if the top and bottom housings differ for a switch, as in the case of the Gateron CM and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow, the qualities brought by each housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, although both switches use nylon for their top and bottom housings, the placement of these housings may lead to subtle differences in sound and feel between the Gateron CM and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow.
In summary, the Gateron CM and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches utilize nylon as their housing material. This classic switch housing material adds depth and richness to the typing sound profile due to the nylon's softness and ability to absorb sound. Both switches are expected to deliver similar sound characteristics because of their shared housing material. However, the placement of the top and bottom housings can influence the sound and feel in different ways, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound upon key release.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, there are a few notable differences. The Gateron CM has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the exact actuation force of the WS Yellow is unknown. However, the Gateron CM has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is slightly heavier than the WS Yellow's bottom out force of 53 grams. This indicates that the Gateron CM is overall a slightly heavier switch compared to the WS Yellow.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the WS Yellow may be a better option, as its lower bottom out force allows for easier keystrokes. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals who type for extended periods, such as in a work setting or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may find the Gateron CM more suitable. Its higher bottom out force provides a stronger push feel, creating a more solid keystroke sensation.
While the exact actuation force of the WS Yellow is unknown, it can be assumed that the actuation force of both switches is similar since they are both linear switches. This means that the force required to trigger a keystroke should be similar for both switches, resulting in comparable results in terms of actuation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches have travel distances that fall within the range of what is considered standard. The 3.6 mm travel distance of the CM switch is on the shorter end of the spectrum, offering a quicker response time which can be favored by gamers. On the other hand, the WS Yellow switch with a 3.8 mm travel distance provides a bit more depth, which can be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. Overall, the CM switch is slightly shorter, providing a faster response time, while the WS Yellow switch offers a slightly longer travel distance for those who prefer a more substantial feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
The Wuque Studio WS Yellow 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron CM linear switch is best known for its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile. This results in a deeper and richer tone during key presses, providing a satisfying and mellow sound experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch's sound characteristics are not specified. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, while the WS Yellow switch's sound qualities are unknown, it is likely that it can provide a similar sound experience based on the materials and engineering used, especially if paired with suitable components.
Moving onto the feel of the switches, both the Gateron CM and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches offer a creamy typing experience. This means that the switches provide a smooth and buttery sensation when typing, resembling the feeling of gliding effortlessly with each keystroke. Both switches are described as polished, which indicates a refined finish that results in reduced friction and seamless key travel. This ensures a sleek and uniform typing experience. Additionally, the WS Yellow switch is characterized as mild, meaning it offers a more gentle typing experience without pronounced characteristics. These qualities make the switches approachable and suitable for most users, as they provide a safe yet enjoyable middle-ground in terms of sound and feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch is recognized for its bassy and thocky sound profile as well as its buttery and polished feel. It promises a rich and deep sound signature while providing a smooth and fluid typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch's specific sound qualities are unknown, but it shares similar creamy and polished feel characteristics. Hence, while the sound and feel of the switches may have slight differences, users can expect a comparable typing experience that offers both satisfaction and ease.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a deeper, richer sound profile, the Gateron CM linear switch would be the better choice for you. With its full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job, the CM switches provide a smooth and buttery typing experience, evoking a sensation of gliding gracefully with each keystroke. The CM switches also offer a bouncy typing experience, thanks to their lengthened, dual-staged spring. In terms of sound, the CM switches are known for their bassy, thocky, and low-pitched characteristics.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a smooth, buttery typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch would be more suitable for you. With its 22mm double-stage spring and material blend, the WS Yellow switches offer a delightful typing experience with a satisfying bounce. These switches are also crafted to be lightweight, ensuring effortless keystrokes and a fluid typing experience. Similar to the CM switches, the WS Yellow switches are described as creamy and polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch depends on your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. Whether you prioritize a deeper sound profile and bouncy typing experience (CM) or a smooth, buttery typing experience and lightweight feel (WS Yellow), you can rest assured that both switches offer a satisfying typing journey.
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