Gateron Ink Red vs. Wuque Studio WS Red

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics. Two popular options are the Gateron Ink Red and the Wuque Studio WS Red, both of which belong to the linear switch category. The Gateron Ink Red is ideal for those with a lighter typing style, thanks to its lower actuation force. It offers a satisfyingly smooth and effortless typing experience, accompanied by a crispy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red features a 22mm double-stage spring, providing a bouncy and responsive typing experience. The classic material blend used in these switches contributes to a familiar sound signature. Moreover, the WS Red switch has a heavier actuation force, adding weight to each keystroke and delivering a satisfying and substantial typing feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your specific needs and preferences.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Red Linear

Wuque Studio WS Red Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

$3.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Ink Red and the Wuque Studio WS Red differ in their housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend top housing, known for its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. This creates a satisfying and clacky typing experience. In contrast, the WS Red utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. The nylon material absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the Ink Red. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique auditory experiences that enhance the typing sensation.

Similarly, the bottom housings of the Ink Red and WS Red also differ in material. The Ink Red's proprietary INK blend bottom housing contributes to its clacky and high-pitched sound profile. Conversely, the WS Red's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic, which absorbs more sound. The bottom housings have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Typing on the Ink Red may provide a sharper and more pronounced impact sensation, while the WS Red may offer a gentler and dampened bottom-out experience.

When comparing the two switches, it is important to note that the top and bottom housings each bring unique qualities to the switch. While the Ink Red's INK blend housing affects the sound when releasing a key, the WS Red's nylon top housing may produce a fuller and rounded sound in the same scenario. This difference in top housings can contribute to individual preferences in terms of sound feedback. Ultimately, whether opting for the Gateron Ink Red or the Wuque Studio WS Red, both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. The actuation force of the Gateron Ink Red switch is 45 grams, while the actuation force of the Wuque Studio WS Red switch is unavailable. However, both switches have a medium actuation force, which means they require a relatively light touch to trigger a keystroke.

Moving on to the bottom out force, the Gateron Ink Red switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Wuque Studio WS Red switch has a slightly higher bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy. This indicates that the Wuque Studio WS Red switch requires a slightly firmer press to fully depress the key compared to the Gateron Ink Red switch.

Considering the weight aspect, some users may prefer a lighter switch to enable longer typing periods, especially for work or extended gaming sessions. In this case, both switches provide a similar experience as they have comparable actuation forces. However, for users who prefer a more substantial typing feel with a stronger push, opting for a switch with a heavier bottom out force would be ideal. In this regard, the Wuque Studio WS Red switch may be a better choice as it has a higher bottom out force than the Gateron Ink Red switch.

In summary, while the actuation force of the Gateron Ink Red and Wuque Studio WS Red switches is similar, with both being medium, their bottom out forces differ. The Gateron Ink Red switch has a lighter bottom out force compared to the medium-heavy bottom out force of the Wuque Studio WS Red switch. Thus, users seeking a lighter typing experience may prefer the Gateron Ink Red switch, while those desiring a more substantial and firmer keystroke might lean towards the Wuque Studio WS Red switch.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it is evident that the WS Red has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Ink Red has a travel distance of 4 mm. 4.0mm is considered the most traditional travel distance, while 3.8mm falls on the shallower end. Gamers, who prioritize faster response times, tend to prefer shorter travel distances. Therefore, if you value responsiveness, opting for the WS Red switch would be a suitable choice. Conversely, individuals who prefer a deeper key press may find the longer travel distance of the Ink Red switch more satisfying. Both options offer their own unique benefits, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Red switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for most purposes. However, it also has a unique chirpy characteristic, giving it a distinct acoustic signature. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red switch's sound profile is unknown, as no specific information is provided. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, while the Ink Red switch is known for its crispy and clacky sound, the specific sound profile of the WS Red switch remains undefined.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Red switch offers a silky typing experience with exceptionally smooth keystrokes. It minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys, providing an enhanced smoothness to the overall feel. Additionally, it falls into the mild category, offering a gentler typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The Ink Red switch is also described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This could be due to the materials used or factory lubing, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, the Wuque Studio WS Red switch's description of feel is unknown, leaving us without any specific details about its typing experience.

In conclusion, based on the provided information, the Gateron Ink Red and Wuque Studio WS Red linear switches have distinct differences in sound and feel. The Ink Red switch offers a satisfyingly smooth experience with a crispy and clacky sound profile, making it suitable for those with a lighter typing style. Its feel is silky, mild, and polished, ensuring an exceptional typing experience with reduced friction. On the other hand, specific details about the sound and feel of the WS Red switch are not provided, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons. However, it is worth noting that similar results in sound and feel to the Ink Red switch may be achieved by considering other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used with the WS Red switch.

Conclusion

In closing, if you prefer a lighter typing style and value smoothness and a crisp sound profile, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is the ideal choice for you. With a lower actuation force and a satisfyingly smooth typing experience, this switch is perfect for those who prefer a more effortless and clacky feel while typing. Additionally, the Ink Red offers a unique acoustic signature with a chirpy sound that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch is a great option. With its double-stage spring and classic material blend, this switch adds a touch of weight to each keystroke, delivering a satisfying and substantial typing feel. Although there is limited information available about the sound and feel of the WS Red, the Ink Red's sound profile is described as neutral with a chirpy characteristic. In terms of feel, the Ink Red is known for its silky, mild, and polished qualities, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Red and the Wuque Studio WS Red depends on your personal preferences and typing style.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Red Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more

Wuque Studio WS Red Linear

$3.50 per 10

Learn more