Everglide Crystal Violet vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Everglide Crystal Violet and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Everglide Crystal Violet, a tactile switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear, a linear switch, both of which offer unique experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Crystal Violet switches are meticulously crafted with a light operating force of 45g, making them ideal for those seeking a relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience. These switches provide a gentle and comfortable feel, accompanied by a pleasantly mellow, low-pitched sound profile. The use of ABS in the switch housings contributes to this non-intrusive auditory experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switches by Wuque elevate your office and work experience with their exceptional design. These linear switches feature ingeniously designed stem railings with discreet cutouts, resulting in reduced switch noise and unparalleled responsiveness. Unlike traditional silent switches, the WS Silent Linear switches offer a distinct typing experience without silicone dampeners, providing a seamless blend of tranquility and precision. While these generalities can give you an idea of each switch's characteristics, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these descriptions, so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
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
4.00 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
ABS
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
ABS
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Everglide Crystal Violet and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches differ in terms of their composition. The Crystal Violet features an ABS top and bottom housing, which is relatively rare for switch housings but common in keycaps. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear has a nylon top and bottom housing, which is considered a classic switch housing material.
One noticeable difference between the two is the sound profile they produce when typing. The Crystal Violet with its ABS housing offers a relatively low-pitched sound, which is expected from switches featuring ABS. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear's nylon housing generates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when compared to ABS switches.
While their sound profiles differ, both switches are likely to deliver satisfying results for users seeking quieter typing experiences. The Crystal Violet's ABS housing and the WS Silent Linear's nylon housing both contribute to dampening the sound produced during key presses. This means that regardless of the choice between the two switches, users can expect a reduction in noise compared to switches with harder plastic housings.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing on the overall typing experience, it is important to note that each housing material brings distinct qualities to the switch. The bottom housing's composition has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down. Meanwhile, the top housing material plays a more noticeable role in the sound produced when releasing the key. Therefore, users should consider their preferred typing experience and prioritize the housing material that aligns with their desired sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, there are notable differences. The Crystal Violet has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the actuation force of the WS Silent Linear is unavailable. This implies that the Crystal Violet requires a relatively lighter force to initiate a keystroke compared to the WS Silent Linear. However, both switches have a similar medium-light bottom out force, with the Crystal Violet requiring 55 grams and the WS Silent Linear weighing in at 63.5 grams. This means that when fully pressing the keys down, both switches offer a similar degree of resistance.
Considering the weight aspect, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Crystal Violet, as it requires a lower actuation force. This can be advantageous for tasks that involve prolonged typing sessions or intense gaming marathons. However, for those seeking a more substantial and satisfying typing experience with a stronger push feel, the WS Silent Linear might be the preferred choice due to its heavier bottom out force.
Overall, while the actuation force of the Crystal Violet is lighter compared to the WS Silent Linear, the bottom out force of both switches offers a similar level of resistance. Therefore, individuals looking for a lighter switch may find similarities in the typing experience of both switches when fully pressed down. Ultimately, the decision between the two hinges on personal preference and the desired feel while typing.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch is 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Crystal Violet offers a more traditional travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the WS Silent Linear has a slightly shorter travel distance at 3.5 mm. The shorter travel distance of the WS Silent Linear may be preferred by gamers who value faster response times. It allows for quicker keystrokes and potentially improved gaming performance. On the other hand, for those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing the keys, the Crystal Violet with its longer travel distance may be preferred. The 4.0 mm travel distance provides a sense of hearty depth and feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding response time and key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Crystal Violet has an MSRP of $7.08 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crystal Violet for $4.19.
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
In terms of sound, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch has a pleasant, mellow sound profile that leans towards the lower-pitched spectrum. This creates a subtle and non-intrusive auditory experience, making it suitable for both home and office use. The Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, on the other hand, offers a muted and subdued sound. These switches reduce switch noise through ingeniously designed stem railings with discreet cutouts, without the use of silicone dampeners. This results in a softer and quieter typing experience, perfect for those seeking tranquility while typing. While the Crystal Violet provides a low-pitched and neutral sound, the WS Silent Linear offers a neutral, muted, and subdued sound.
When it comes to feel, the Crystal Violet tactile switch offers a range of qualities. It is described as creamy, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience. This creamy sensation is like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, melting into each keystroke. Additionally, the Crystal Violet is also described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that stands in a safe middle-ground zone. It provides a comfortable and approachable feel for most users. Furthermore, the Crystal Violet is considered a stepped switch, which means it has two stages of tactile feedback. This creates a mild tactile bump with some pre-travel and/or post-travel, enhancing the typing experience.
The WS Silent Linear linear switch from Wuque Studio focuses on delivering a mild typing experience. It offers a gentle and approachable feel, similar to the Crystal Violet switch. However, there is no specific mention of creaminess or stepped characteristics for the WS Silent Linear. Therefore, it can be inferred that the WS Silent Linear prioritizes a smooth and mild linear typing experience without pronounced tactile features.
In conclusion, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Crystal Violet provides a low-pitched and neutral sound with a creamy and mild feel, along with the stepped tactile feedback. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear offers a neutral, muted, and subdued sound, with a mild and gentle linear typing experience. While the Crystal Violet has more distinct characteristics, the WS Silent Linear prioritizes a smooth and approachable linear typing experience. Depending on personal preferences, both switches can provide satisfying results, although with slightly different nuances.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience with a gentle and comfortable feel, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch is the way to go. With its light operating force of 45g and mellow, low-pitched sound profile, it offers a subtle and non-intrusive auditory experience. The Crystal Violet switches also feature a creamy and mild feel, providing a smooth and buttery typing sensation.
On the other hand, if you prioritize reducing switch noise while maintaining responsiveness and precision, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch is the better choice. With a bottom out force of 63.5g, it offers a medium-heavy feel. The WS Silent Linear switches are known for their ingeniously designed stem railings with discreet cutouts, effectively minimizing noise without the use of silicone dampeners. They deliver a muted and subdued sound, creating a more tranquil typing experience.
Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and priorities. If you value a relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience with a mellow sound, go with the Crystal Violet. If reducing noise while maintaining responsiveness is your priority, opt for the WS Silent Linear. Both switches offer a moderate actuation force requirement and a mild feel, making them suitable for various purposes. Consider how you plan to use the keyboard and what qualities are most important to you in order to make the best choice.
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