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Durock Black Lotus vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+

An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Black Lotus and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ both stand out as excellent linear options, each offering unique attributes that cater to different typing preferences. The Durock Black Lotus is celebrated for its silky smooth feel and precision, featuring a 55g actuation weight that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort. With its innovative light column for in-switch lighting and a removable design, it also adds a visual element to your keyboard setup. On the other hand, the WS POM+ prides itself on its all-POM construction, providing a deep, satisfying "thock" sound signature and an exceptionally buttery keystroke that enhances the overall typing experience. While the Black Lotus emphasizes precision and customization, the WS POM+ focuses on auditory feedback and a smooth typing experience. 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

55g

Actuation force

45g

Bottom-out force

63.5g

Bottom-out force

55g

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Total travel

4.00 mm

Total travel

3.60 mm

Factory lubed

Yes

Factory lubed

Yes

Stem construction

Standard

Stem construction

Standard

Stem material

POM

Stem material

POM

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

22mm extended double-stage spring

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the Wuque Studio WS POM+, notable differences emerge in the construction of their top housings. The Black Lotus features a modified PC and UPE blend, which is known for delivering a unique and premium tactile experience. This material not only provides durability but also contributes to a slightly brighter sound signature upon keystrokes. In contrast, the WS POM+ uses POM for its top housing, which is renowned for creating a distinctive deeper sound profile that is perceived as more muted. While both materials contribute unique characteristics to the sound and feel of typing, the Black Lotus offers a more lively response compared to the subdued nature of the WS POM+.

When examining the bottom housings of each switch, both the Durock Black Lotus and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ utilize different materials that influence the overall auditory and tactile experience. The Black Lotus is equipped with nylon, a material praised for its ability to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Conversely, the WS POM+ features a bottom housing made of POM, which also aims for a pleasing sound experience albeit with a unique output. While both switches aim for a gratifying acoustic result, the characteristics offered by nylon in the Black Lotus foster a rounder sound that contrasts with the POM's focus on a muted yet still fulfilling auditory response.

Ultimately, both the Durock Black Lotus and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ have distinct strengths due to their differing housing materials, yet both can yield satisfying results in terms of sound and feel. The interaction between the top and bottom housing in both cases suggests that while the Black Lotus may offer a more vibrant auditory experience, the subdued nature of the WS POM+ can still provide a pleasing typing experience rooted in its own unique sound profile. Users looking for a full-bodied sound might lean towards the Black Lotus for its nylon bottom, while those seeking a more subdued experience with rich sound may gravitate towards the WS POM+, showcasing how diverse materials can fulfill similar functional goals in different ways.

Weight

When comparing the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different user preferences. The Black Lotus features an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, positioning it as a medium-heavy option that can provide a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the WS POM+ has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light switch. This lighter actuation force is ideal for users who prefer less resistance during typing or gaming, as it allows for longer sessions with less fatigue. Conversely, the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Black Lotus may appeal to those who appreciate a more tactile and robust feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether users prioritize a lighter touch for extended use or a stronger push for a more pronounced typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, there is a notable difference: the Black Lotus has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the WS POM+ measures at 3.6 mm. This makes the Black Lotus the longer travel option, providing a more pronounced depth that some users may find satisfying for a more deliberate typing experience. In contrast, the WS POM+, with its shorter 3.6 mm travel, caters to users seeking quicker response times, which can be particularly beneficial for gamers. Therefore, if you prefer a traditional, hearty feel, the Durock Black Lotus would be the ideal choice; however, if you lean towards a more responsive and fast-acting switch, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ would be the better fit.

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 POM+ comes in at $3.90 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 Durock Black Lotus is characterized as having a quality that contributes to a superior typing experience, though a specific sound signature hasn't been provided. This opens the door to speculation regarding its auditory feedback, which might lean towards a softer or muted tone that complements its silky smooth feel. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ is known for delivering a deep, satisfying "thock" sound signature that many enthusiasts find appealing. The distinct auditory experience of the WS POM+ can elevate typing satisfaction, especially for those who appreciate pronounced sound feedback in their key presses. It's essential to keep in mind that the overall sound can vary significantly based on the keyboard build, including the choice of board and keycaps.

When it comes to feel, the Durock Black Lotus is exceptionally refined, boasting descriptors such as silky, buttery, mild, and polished. This combination ensures minimal resistance during keystrokes and enhances the sensorial experience, making each key press feel effortless and fluid. The precision and reduced wobble of the housing and stem further contribute to this high-quality typing experience. Meanwhile, the WS POM+ is equally exciting but lacks further elaboration on its feel qualities. However, the all-POM construction suggests that it likely shares some traits with the Black Lotus, as POM is known for smoothness and durability. Therefore, while the specific characteristics of the WS POM+ remain somewhat ambiguous, it can be anticipated to provide an enjoyable typing experience, perhaps along a similar vein to the Black Lotus.

In conclusion, both the Durock Black Lotus and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ offer remarkable qualities for typing enthusiasts, each excelling in their respective areas. While the Black Lotus shines with its refined smoothness and lack of wobble, the WS POM+ offers a deeper sound profile that might appeal to those who prioritize auditory feedback. In terms of feel, the Black Lotus stands out with its descriptors of silky, buttery, mild, and polished, while the WS POM+ is expected to have a smooth typing experience as well, though more information would be needed for a complete comparison. Ultimately, selecting between these options will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel during typing, but either switch promises a satisfying experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Durock Black Lotus and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switches, consider your typing preferences and the kind of experience you wish to achieve. If you gravitate towards a medium-heavy bottom-out force coupled with a silky smooth feel, then the Black Lotus may be your best choice. Its 63.5-gram force provides a satisfying resistance while typing, enhancing the precision of your keystrokes. The unique light column feature further adds versatility for those who appreciate customizable lighting in their keyboard setup. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter, fluid typing experience with an emphasis on a deep "thock" sound, the WS POM+ would be ideal. With a bottom-out force of 55 grams, it offers a more effortless keystroke, making it suitable for long typing sessions where comfort is paramount. The buttery smoothness and polished finish of the WS POM+ can provide an engaging experience, especially for those who enjoy a softer, more subdued typing sensation. Ultimately, your choice hinges on whether you desire a precision-driven, slightly heavier switch with a luxurious feel or a light, effortless switch that delights the ears with its rich acoustics.

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