Durock Black Lotus vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Black Lotus and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi offer unique features and qualities for the discerning typist. The Black Lotus is a linear switch renowned for its silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision. With reduced housing and stem wobble, typing on these switches is a pleasure in itself. The 55g actuation weight strikes a perfect balance between substantial and manageable. Additionally, the unique fully removable light column provides customizable in-switch lighting. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switches bring together innovation and visual aesthetics. These ultra-smooth linear switches feature a light column that diffuses light, creating a mesmerizing effect when paired with RGB visuals. The UPE stem offers a distinct dry, airy, and wispy smoothness, setting it apart from the creamy feel of factory-lubed switches. With a slightly shortened total travel and a long pole design, the WS Morandi switches strike a balance between form and function. While typing on the Morandis, users can enjoy a slightly more muted sound profile. However, let us delve deeper into the specifics of each switch to help you make an informed decision based on your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Durock Black Lotus and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi differ in their housing materials, resulting in distinct typing experiences. The Black Lotus features a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, which provides a unique and premium feel. This housing material is known for its ability to produce a satisfying sound when a key is released, offering a crisp and pleasant typing experience. In contrast, the WS Morandi's POM top housing produces a deeper sound, creating a more muted typing experience. While both switches offer a satisfying feel, the Black Lotus is more focused on a premium feel, while the WS Morandi prioritizes a deeper, more subdued sound profile.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Black Lotus utilizes a nylon material, which offers a classic switch experience. Typing on switches with nylon housing elicits a fuller and deeper sound profile. The nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder typing sound. On the other hand, the WS Morandi incorporates a POM bottom housing, which contributes to its pleasing and unique sound profile. Similar to the POM top housing, the POM bottom housing creates a deeper sound, but with more muted characteristics. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their bottom housings, but the Black Lotus offers a fuller sound, while the WS Morandi provides a more subdued and muted sound.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Black Lotus and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience. While both switches offer premium feel and unique sound profiles, they differ in their housing materials. The Black Lotus, with its modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, provides a crisp sound on key release and a fuller sound with its nylon bottom housing. In contrast, the WS Morandi features a POM top and bottom housing, resulting in a more muted and deeper sound profile. So, if you prefer a switch with a crisper and fuller sound, the Black Lotus would be the ideal choice. However, if you prefer a switch with a deeper and more subdued sound, the WS Morandi would provide similar results.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the Black Lotus is known to be on the heavier side, with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a medium to heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the exact actuation force of the WS Morandi is unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium range.
For those who prefer a lighter switch, the WS Morandi would be a better choice as its weight falls within the medium range. This lighter actuation and bottom out force can be advantageous for prolonged typing sessions and gamers looking for a more effortless keystroke experience. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel and a stronger push, the Black Lotus would be the ideal option due to its medium-heavy actuation and bottom out forces.
Overall, the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi differ slightly, with the former being slightly heavier. Depending on an individual's preference, they can choose either switch to achieve their desired typing experience. Whether it's a lighter or heavier touch, both switches provide reliable performance and satisfying results.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, it is clear that the WS Morandi has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Black Lotus's 4.0 mm. The Black Lotus falls into the more traditional range of travel distances, while the WS Morandi is on the shallower side. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the WS Morandi would be the better option for you. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. In that case, the Black Lotus with its longer travel distance would be a more suitable choice for those who prefer a deeper feel when pressing the keys. Overall, it is clear that the two switches offer different travel distances, catering to different preferences and needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Black Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Black Lotus for $4.57.
The Wuque Studio WS Morandi has an MSRP of $4.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Morandi for $3.90.
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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Black Lotus switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, so we can assume that it does not have any distinct sound characteristics. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switch is described as having a more muted sound profile. This means that the Morandi switch produces a dampened and subtle sound when pressed, offering a quieter typing experience compared to most switches. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction, keycap material, and typing technique.
In terms of feel, both the Black Lotus and the WS Morandi switches share some similar descriptors. Both switches are described as "buttery" and "silky," indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. They provide a seamless and effortless typing sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Black Lotus switch is also described as having a "mild" feel, which means it offers a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. The WS Morandi switch, on the other hand, is described as "creamy," which implies an even smoother and more luxurious typing sensation similar to gliding fingers effortlessly across the keys.
Considering all the available information, both the Durock Black Lotus and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches offer a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. They provide a buttery and silky feel with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. While the Black Lotus does not have a specific sound descriptor, it is safe to assume it does not have any distinct sound characteristics. The WS Morandi switch, however, offers a slightly more muted sound profile, providing a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference for specific sound or aesthetic preferences. However, if you enjoy the smooth and seamless feel of the Black Lotus switch, you can expect similar results from the WS Morandi switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. The Black Lotus has a slightly higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience, while the WS Morandi has a bottom out force of 60 grams, offering a medium typing feel.
If you prioritize a switch with unparalleled precision and reduced wobble, the Black Lotus is the one for you. Its silky smooth feel and unique light column for in-switch lighting make it a delight to type on. On the other hand, if you appreciate visual aesthetics, the WS Morandi combines innovation with a mesmerizing light column that diffuses light, creating a captivating effect for RGB visuals. The Morandi switches also have a distinct dry and airy smoothness provided by the UPE stem.
When it comes to sound profiles, the Black Lotus does not have a specific descriptor provided, while the WS Morandi is described as low-pitched, subdued, and thocky. If you prefer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, the WS Morandi's low-pitched sound might be appealing. It also offers a subdued sound profile, creating a more subtle sound compared to most switches. Additionally, the Morandi switches produce a deep, rich, and satisfying thocky sound when pressed and released.
For typing feel, both switches offer a buttery and silky experience. However, the Black Lotus is also described as mild and polished, offering a safe middle-ground zone of smoothness and refined finish. The WS Morandi provides a creamy sensation, like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. This is due to either factory lubing or specific materials used in the switch construction.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Black Lotus and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi depends on your personal preferences. Consider factors such as bottom out force, visual aesthetics, sound profile, and typing feel to make the decision that best suits your needs. Happy typing!