Gateron Mini i vs. Wuque Studio WS Jade
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Mini i and the Wuque Studio WS Jade stand out as unique options for different preferences. The Gateron Mini i is a tactile switch that offers gentle tactility in each keystroke, providing a satisfying feedback without sacrificing a quiet sound profile, making it ideal for office environments. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade is a linear switch known for its bright metallic sound profile and smooth typing experience, enhanced by a light diffuser for an enchanting RGB display. While the Mini i is bouncy and subtle, the WS Jade is clacky and silky. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences. 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
40g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Mini i features a nylon top housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade comes with a POM top housing that offers a unique and pleasing sound, albeit on the deeper and more muted side. While both materials aim to enhance the overall typing experience by creating a duller and rounder sound, the nylon top housing of the Mini i may produce a slightly different sound compared to the POM top housing of the WS Jade.
In terms of bottom housing, the Gateron Mini i also incorporates nylon material that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to its top housing. Conversely, the Wuque Studio WS Jade utilizes a POM bottom housing that adds to the unique and pleasing sound profile of the switch. Both bottom housings aim to enhance the typing experience by providing a more impactful bottom-out sound and feel. While the nylon bottom housing of the Mini i may offer a slightly different experience compared to the POM bottom housing of the WS Jade, the overall result is likely to be similar in terms of sound and feel.
Overall, the Gateron Mini i and the Wuque Studio WS Jade offer different housing materials that aim to enhance the typing experience with unique sound profiles. While the nylon materials in the Mini i provide a deeper and fuller sound profile, the POM materials in the WS Jade offer a more unique and muted sound. Despite these differences, both switches are designed to create a duller and rounder sound that absorbs more noise, providing a satisfying typing experience. Whether you prefer the nylon or POM housing material, both the Mini i and the WS Jade are likely to deliver a similar outcome in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, we can see some differences in weight. The Mini i has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, with a bottom out force of 50 grams. In contrast, the WS Jade has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams, with a bottom out force of 60 grams. This makes the Mini i the lighter option, while the WS Jade falls into the medium category. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Mini i for longer typing sessions or gaming, whereas users seeking a more substantial typing experience might prefer the WS Jade with its heavier forces. Overall, understanding the actuation force and bottom out force of a switch is crucial in choosing the right option for individual preferences and needs.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is 3.4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range, making them ideal choices for those who prefer faster response times, such as gamers. The difference of 0.2 mm between the two switches may not be noticeable to the average user, but those who are more sensitive to keypress depth may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the WS Jade. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the level of responsiveness desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Jade comes in at $4.30.
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 Mini i tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that is neither too loud nor too quiet, making it suitable for a variety of environments. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch provides a unique clacky and resonant sound that is bright and percussive, creating a distinct typing experience. When it comes to feel, the Mini i switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped, offering a range of tactile feedback options for users who prefer a lighter touch. In contrast, the WS Jade switch is known for its silky and creamy feel, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience that minimizes resistance and enhances overall typing comfort. Despite their differences in sound and feel, both switches offer their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their individual typing style. Ultimately, whether you choose the Gateron Mini i or the Wuque Studio WS Jade switch, you can expect a satisfying typing experience tailored to your specific needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, consider the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. If you value a quiet and professional typing experience, especially in an office setting, the Gateron Mini i with its light tactility and muted sound profile would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more unique and resonant sound profile with a creamy and smooth typing feel, the WS Jade switch with its metallic insert and light diffuser could be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences and the specific requirements of your typing environment.
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