Durock Dolphin vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Dolphin and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately boils down to your specific needs and preferences. The Durock Dolphin is a linear switch known for its silent operation, making it perfect for environments where noise levels need to be kept low. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, it provides a balance of precision and a satisfying press, ideal for those who prefer a bit more resistance. On the other hand, the WS Yellow linear switches from Wuque Studio offer a timeless blend of classic materials and cutting-edge engineering. With a 22mm double-stage spring, they deliver a delightful typing experience with a satisfying bounce. Additionally, their lightweight design ensures effortless keystrokes for a smooth and fluid 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
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
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 double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Durock Dolphin and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow both feature polycarbonate top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiff nature, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. This makes it ideal for switches that are intended to be used with RGB lighting, as its translucency adds to the visual appeal. On the other hand, the WS Yellow utilizes nylon for its top housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Durock Dolphin and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow feature nylon bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile as it absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and softer sound. Despite both switches using the same material for the bottom housing, the impact of the bottom-out sound and feel will be more influenced by the bottom housing material. This means that while the overall sound profile may be similar between the two switches, the experience of pressing down on the switches may differ slightly.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Dolphin and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and feel. The Durock Dolphin's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, perfect for those looking for a more clear and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Yellow's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, appealing to those who prefer a duller and rounder sound profile. Both switches offer unique qualities based on their housing materials, allowing users to customize their typing experience to suit their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, we can see that the Dolphin has a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the WS Yellow has a bottom out force of 53 grams, making the WS Yellow the lighter option. Both switches have an unknown actuation force, but based on the bottom out force alone, we can infer that the WS Yellow may provide a slightly lighter typing experience compared to the Dolphin. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the WS Yellow, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Dolphin may be more suitable for individuals who prefer a slightly more substantial typing feel due to its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.8mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This uniform travel distance ensures a similar typing experience between the two switches, regardless of which one is chosen. In terms of key feel and responsiveness, users can expect a consistent and satisfying typing experience from both the Dolphin and WS Yellow switches due to their matching travel distances.
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 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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Dolphin linear switch provides a muted and low-pitched typing experience, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards and offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. On the other hand, information on the sound qualities of the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch is not available, so it is unclear how the two switches compare in this aspect.
In terms of feel, the Durock Dolphin switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The WS Yellow switch, on the other hand, is described as creamy and mild, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience that is approachable to most users. Both switches feature a polished finish, but the WS Yellow switch also includes lubricant application for an even silkier sensation.
Overall, the Durock Dolphin linear switch excels in providing a quieter typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force, ideal for those seeking precision and resistance in their switches. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch offers a smooth and effortless keystroke, thanks to its lightweight design and double-stage spring, along with a satisfying bounce and creamy typing sensation. Both switches have their own unique qualities, catering to different preferences in sound and feel. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, you can achieve satisfying results with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, consider your typing environment and preference in terms of actuation force. If you prioritize a silent switch for office use or a workspace where noise levels matter, the Dolphin with its 62g bottom out force may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force for a smoother typing experience, the WS Yellow with its 53g bottom out force and creamy feel could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal typing style and environment. Choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences for a satisfying typing experience.
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