Durock Dolphin vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your needs, the Durock Dolphin and Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Durock Dolphins are known for their silent operation and medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, making them an ideal choice for office environments or those who prefer a switch with resistance. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switches from Wuque Studio provide a medium tactility and superior noise reduction without the use of silicone dampeners, setting a new standard in silent switches. Both switches offer a blend of tranquility and precision, but with distinct characteristics that cater 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
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Durock Dolphin and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Dolphin's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound due to its stiffness, while the WS Silent Tactile's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound by absorbing more sound with its softer material. Despite the differences, both switches offer distinct sound experiences based on their top housing material.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Dolphin and the WS Silent Tactile utilize nylon for this component. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, which is consistent across both switches. This shared housing material ensures that the bottom-out sound and feel of these switches will be similar, as both nylon housings absorb sound and create a duller, rounder sound as compared to harder plastics. Therefore, in terms of the bottom housing, users can expect a comparable sound experience from both the Durock Dolphin and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches.
Considering the impact of each housing material on overall sound, it is evident that the top housing has a significant influence on the sound when pressing down on a key, while the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel. In the case of the Dolphin and WS Silent Tactile switches, users can expect the top housing material to shape the sound when the key is released, with the polycarbonate creating a sharper sound in the Dolphin and the nylon producing a deeper sound in the WS Silent Tactile. Ultimately, while there are differences in the housing materials used in these switches, both offer unique sound profiles that cater to the preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that the Dolphin is lighter in terms of bottom out force at 62 grams, while the WS Silent Tactile is slightly heavier at 63.5 grams. Both switches have an unknown actuation force, but they fall in the medium to medium-heavy range based on their bottom out forces. The Dolphin may be preferred by those who enjoy a lighter typing experience for longer sessions, while the WS Silent Tactile could be chosen by users looking for a more substantial push feel. Overall, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring a personalized typing experience for users.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch both have different travel distances. The Dolphin has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the WS Silent Tactile has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the WS Silent Tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Dolphin switch. For those who prefer a more responsive feel, the WS Silent Tactile may be the better option due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Dolphin switch with its longer travel distance may be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper and more satisfying key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and the type of typing experience desired.
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 Silent Tactile comes in at $4.20 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 provides a muted and low-pitched typing experience, minimizing noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile with a muted quality, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. Both switches excel in providing a quieter typing experience, but the Dolphin leans towards a softer and bass-heavy sound, while the WS Silent Tactile maintains a more moderate and versatile sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Durock Dolphin switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch is characterized by an accented and invigorating feel, providing pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a reactive typing sensation. If you prefer a switch with a more gentle typing experience, the WS Silent Tactile also offers a mild profile that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. Both switches cater to different tactile preferences, with the Dolphin focusing on a polished finish and the WS Silent Tactile delivering a blend of tactility and responsiveness.
In conclusion, the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Dolphin excels in providing a quiet and heavier actuation force, while the WS Silent Tactile combines silence with tactile feedback in an innovative design. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches provide excellent options for different typing experiences. If you enjoy a quieter typing experience with a bit more resistance, the Dolphin is a solid choice, while the WS Silent Tactile offers a balanced mix of silence and tactility for a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance tailored to different user preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, consider your priorities. If you value a silent typing experience with medium resistance and a polished feel, the Dolphin may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize noise reduction, moderate tactility, and an invigorating typing sensation, the WS Silent Tactile could be the ideal switch for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your specific preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard.
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