Durock Black Lotus vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow 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 Yellow are both exceptional options that offer unique features and benefits. The Black Lotus is renowned for its silky smooth feel and impeccable precision, providing a typing experience without any housing or stem wobble. With a substantial 55g actuation weight, it strikes the perfect balance between being substantial and not too hefty. Additionally, the Black Lotus boasts a captivating in-switch lighting thanks to its removable light column. On the other hand, the WS Yellow linear switches by Wuque Studio embrace a timeless fusion of classic materials and cutting-edge engineering. These switches feature a 22mm double-stage spring at their core, delivering a delightful typing experience and a satisfying bounce. With a material blend that creates a familiar sound signature loved by enthusiasts, the WS Yellow switches offer effortless keystrokes and a smooth, fluid typing experience. However, let's explore the nuances of these switches further to help you determine which one is the best fit for your preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches have some similarities and differences. Both switches feature nylon as their bottom housing material. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its soft plastic composition that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housing. Therefore, both the Black Lotus and the WS Yellow are likely to offer a similar experience in terms of bottom-out sound and feel.
However, when it comes to the top housing, the Black Lotus stands out with its modified PC and UPE blend material. This unique blend provides the Black Lotus switch with a premium feel that distinguishes it from the WS Yellow. While the Black Lotus offers a distinct tactile sensation on the top housing, the WS Yellow utilizes a nylon top housing. Nylon, being softer than other plastics, absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Therefore, the typing experience on the WS Yellow switch might have a slightly different auditory aspect when compared to the Black Lotus.
Overall, the bottom housings of the Durock Black Lotus and Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches offer a similar deep and full sound profile, thanks to their shared nylon material. However, the top housings differ, with the Black Lotus featuring a modified PC and UPE blend for a unique and premium feel, while the WS Yellow utilizes nylon, providing a deeper sound experience. It's important to note that the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, while the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, there are notable differences to consider. The Black Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams, requiring a medium-heavy push to trigger a keystroke, whereas the actuation force of the WS Yellow is unavailable. On the other hand, the WS Yellow has a bottom out force of 53 grams, which is considered medium-light. In terms of weight, those who prefer a lighter typing experience might lean towards the WS Yellow, allowing them to type for longer periods without fatigue. This makes it a suitable choice for work or extended gaming sessions. However, if a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel is desired, the slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Black Lotus may be preferred. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between these switches offer options for varying typing preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, we can see that the Black Lotus has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Yellow has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Black Lotus falls into the more traditional range of 4.0 mm, while the WS Yellow sits at a slightly shallower 3.8 mm. While the difference might seem insignificant, it can have an impact on user preference and experience. Gamers, for instance, tend to favor shorter travel distances as they enable faster response times. So, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the WS Yellow with its shorter travel distance would be the better choice. However, it's important to note that some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt or lacking in depth. In such cases, the Black Lotus with its longer travel distance would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two would depend on personal preferences and desired typing experience.
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 Yellow 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 Durock Black Lotus switch does not have a specific descriptor provided in the information. Therefore, we can assume that the sound of these switches is not particularly noteworthy or distinctive. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switch is described as having a "familiar sound signature that enthusiasts have come to adore." Although the exact details of this sound signature are not mentioned, it indicates that these switches produce a sound that is liked and appreciated by keyboard enthusiasts. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Black Lotus switch is described with several descriptors including "silky," "buttery," "mild," and "polished." These descriptors indicate that the typing experience with these switches is exceptionally smooth, seamless, and gentle. The Black Lotus switches minimize resistance when pressing and releasing keys, providing a refined and sleek typing experience. Similarly, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switch is described as "creamy," "mild," and "polished." These descriptors suggest that the WS Yellow switches also offer a smooth and buttery typing experience, with a silky sensation and effortless keystrokes. Both switches fall into the category of switches offering a mild typing experience, which makes them approachable and enjoyable for most users.
In conclusion, the Durock Black Lotus and Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches have distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the exact sound of the Black Lotus switch is unknown, it can be assumed that it does not have any standout characteristics in this regard. On the other hand, the WS Yellow switch is praised for its familiar and appreciated sound signature. In terms of feel, both switches offer a smooth and polished typing experience, with a emphasis on being mild and approachable. The Black Lotus switch has descriptors such as silky, buttery, mild, and polished, while the WS Yellow switch is described as creamy, mild, and polished. In summary, both switches provide a delightful typing experience, but with slightly different nuances. Depending on personal preferences and the desired typing experience, either switch can be chosen to achieve similar satisfactory results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy linear switch with a silky and buttery typing experience, the Durock Black Lotus may be the perfect choice for you. With its 63.5g bottom out force, you can expect a substantial yet smooth keystroke. The Black Lotus also offers unparalleled precision and reduced wobble, maximizing your typing pleasure. Additionally, the unique light column provides in-switch lighting and is fully removable, allowing for customizable aesthetics.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light linear switch, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow could be the ideal option. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, these switches provide effortless keystrokes and a smooth and fluid typing experience. The WS Yellow also offers a delightful bounce, thanks to its 22mm double-stage spring. Moreover, enthusiasts have come to adore its familiar sound signature, making it a timeless fusion of classic materials and cutting-edge engineering.
In terms of sound, the Black Lotus is not described, while the WS Yellow is known for its creamy and mild sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Black Lotus is described as silky, buttery, mild, and polished. Meanwhile, the WS Yellow is described as creamy, mild, and polished.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Black Lotus and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow will depend on your personal preferences. Consider the weight of the switch, the desired typing experience, and the sound profile that appeals to you. Both switches offer their own unique characteristics that can enhance your typing pleasure.
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