Durock Dolphin vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, the decision ultimately boils down to whether you prefer a silent, medium-heavy actuation switch or a tactile switch with a pronounced bump and satisfying sound. The Durock Dolphins are ideal for office settings or quiet workspaces due to their silent operation and 62g actuation force, offering a precise yet satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch provides a more immersive and engaging typing experience with its 70g bump, "thocky" sound, and nylon housings. While the Dolphin is described as polished, muted, and low-pitched, the WS Heavy Tactile is characterized as accented, bouncy, clacky, high-pitched, invigorating, resonant, sharp, and snappy. These general pointers can help guide your decision, 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile, we see that both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Therefore, both the Dolphin and the WS Heavy Tactile will provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel when it comes to the bottom housing material.
However, when it comes to the top housing material, the Durock Dolphin features a polycarbonate top housing, while the WS Heavy Tactile uses nylon for the top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Dolphin creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the WS Heavy Tactile elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, with a duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate top housing. This means that there will be a noticeable difference in sound and feel when typing on these switches based on the material used for the top housing.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Dolphin and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile will come down to personal preference in sound and feel. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing for a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel when bottoming out keys, the differing top housing materials will result in distinct sound profiles. The Dolphin's sharper and crisper sound from the polycarbonate top housing may be preferred by those looking for a more defined typing experience, while the WS Heavy Tactile's fuller and deeper sound from the nylon top housing may appeal to those seeking a more muted and rounded typing sound.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch reveals some interesting differences. The Dolphin has an actuation force of None grams, meaning it is likely a very light switch, and a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Dolphin, and a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is medium-heavy. This means that the WS Heavy Tactile switch requires a lighter initial touch to actuate but a heavier force to bottom out compared to the Dolphin. The Dolphin may be preferred by those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, while the WS Heavy Tactile might suit those who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that the Dolphin has a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the WS Heavy Tactile's 3.2 mm. The Dolphin offers a bit more depth in its travel, which some users may find satisfying for a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile provides a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for those seeking quicker response times, especially gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for travel distance - whether you prefer a longer, more substantial feel, or a shorter, snappier response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Dolphin has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dolphin for $5.41.
The Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile 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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Dolphin linear switch offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, making it a great choice for those seeking a quieter and more subtle sound profile. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch is described as clacky, high-pitched, and resonant, providing a more sharp and immersive auditory experience. Depending on personal preference, the Dolphin switch may be more suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing environment, while the WS Heavy Tactile switch is ideal for users who enjoy a more pronounced and lively sound while typing.
In terms of feel, the Durock Dolphin linear switch is characterized by a polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch offers an invigorating and bouncy typing sensation with accentuated tactile feedback and a sharp bump. The combination of these qualities provides a tactile experience that is both responsive and dynamic, giving users a satisfying and engaging typing experience.
In conclusion, the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Dolphin switch provides a quieter typing experience with a substantial actuation force, while the WS Heavy Tactile switch delivers a more pronounced tactile feedback and a captivating sound profile. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a quieter typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force or a more tactile and engaging typing feel with immersive sound feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, consider your environment and preferences. If you value a quieter typing experience and a switch with medium actuation force, the Dolphin may be the better choice for office or shared spaces. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile and immersive typing experience with a higher actuation force, the WS Heavy Tactile switch could be the ideal option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on factors such as noise level tolerance, typing feel preferences, and desired actuation force.