Gateron Smoothie vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Smoothie and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Smoothie and the Wuque Studio WS Red mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Smoothie is praised for its all-POM construction, offering a thocky sound signature, smoothness, and a lightweight touch, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a buttery and subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Red stands out with its 22mm double-stage spring and heavier actuation force, providing a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a satisfying weight to each keystroke. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that may 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Smoothie and the Wuque Studio WS Red both utilize different housing materials for their top and bottom housings, with the Smoothie featuring POM for both and the WS Red using nylon for both. The POM top housing of the Smoothie creates a unique and pleasing sound that is deeper and more muted, while the nylon top housing of the WS Red produces a fuller and deeper sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on the material used in their top housings.
In terms of the bottom housings, the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie and the nylon bottom housing of the WS Red also have distinct characteristics. The POM bottom housing of the Smoothie contributes to its deep and pleasing sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the WS Red absorbs more sound to create a duller and rounder sound. Both bottom housings play a role in the overall sound and feel of the switches, with the material used impacting the typing experience.
Despite the differences in materials used for the housing of the Gateron Smoothie and the Wuque Studio WS Red, both switches aim to provide a unique and enjoyable typing experience. While the POM and nylon materials have different properties that affect sound and feel, both switches offer a deep and pleasant typing sound profile. So while the materials may vary, the end result for users seeking a switch with a pleasing sound experience will be similar regardless of which switch they choose.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Smoothie linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it is clear that there are notable differences between the two. The Gateron Smoothie has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, which is ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. However, the bottom out force for the Gateron Smoothie is unknown, making it difficult to determine the full typing feel of the switch. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. While the actuation force for the WS Red is unknown, the heavier bottom out force indicates that it may require more force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Gateron Smoothie. Overall, those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Gateron Smoothie, while those seeking a more robust typing experience may lean towards the Wuque Studio WS Red.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Smoothie linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, the Smoothie has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their quicker response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Smoothie may be the better choice due to its slightly shorter travel distance. However, if you prefer a bit more depth in your keystrokes, the WS Red with its slightly longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be significant enough to significantly impact the typing experience, so you can expect similar results with both options.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
The Wuque Studio WS Red 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 Smoothie linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile with a subdued quality, producing a deep and satisfying tone when pressed. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch does not have specific sound descriptors provided, indicating that its sound signature may be more standard or neutral. When it comes to feel, the Smoothie provides a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless keystroke sensation. In comparison, the WS Red switch does not have detailed feel descriptors available, suggesting that its feel may not have the same level of smoothness and fluidity as the Smoothie.
Considering the information provided, if you are looking for a linear switch with a deep and satisfying sound profile, the Gateron Smoothie would be a great choice for a thocky and low-pitched typing experience. Additionally, if you prefer a smooth and buttery feel with minimal resistance when typing, the Smoothie's buttery, creamy, and silky descriptors indicate a premium typing experience. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more standard sound and feel in a linear switch, the Wuque Studio WS Red may provide a reliable and familiar typing experience without the specific qualities highlighted in the Smoothie. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on your preference for sound and feel characteristics in a keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Smoothie linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, you should consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a switch with a lighter touch and a thocky, low-pitched, and subdued sound while providing a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience, then the Gateron Smoothie would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force, then the Wuque Studio WS Red switch might be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound signature.
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