Dareu Dream vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch are two popular options to consider. The Dream is praised for its very light linear feel, making it a great choice for those who prefer a smooth pressing experience at an affordable price point. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch offers a smooth tactile bump and a neutral sound signature, appealing to users who enjoy a tactile feedback while typing. Both switches have their own unique 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Dream and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile, both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. The similarities in the top housing material of these keyboards suggest that users can expect a similar sound profile and aesthetic experience when typing on either the Dream or the WS Light Tactile.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Dareu Dream features a nylon material while the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile also boasts a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon for their bottom housing. The use of nylon in both keyboards' bottom housing indicates that users can anticipate a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel due to the shared material choice.
In understanding how the top and bottom housings contribute to the overall typing experience, it becomes clear that the qualities of each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down, while the top housing influences the sound when the key is released. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings highlights the importance of both materials in shaping the overall sound profile and tactile feedback of the keyboard.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Dream has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the WS Light Tactile's 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. However, the WS Light Tactile has a heavier bottom out force of 50 grams, whereas the Dream's bottom out force is unspecified. The lighter actuation force of the Dream may be preferred by those who type for extended periods, while the heavier bottom out force of the WS Light Tactile may cater to individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer unique advantages, with the Dream focusing on a lighter touch and the WS Light Tactile providing a more tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch are both 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. Both switches provide a consistent travel distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom, allowing for a consistent feel when pressing down on the keys. Whether you choose the Dareu Dream or the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is the same, providing users with a similar typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Dream has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dream for $3.76.
The Wuque Studio WS Light 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
In terms of sound, the Dareu Dream linear switch is known for its clacky sound, characterized by a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch has a more neutral sound profile, offering a moderate actuation force requirement with a moderate sound level. Both switches provide distinct sound signatures, but the Dream leans towards a louder and crisper sound while the WS Light Tactile offers a more subdued and versatile sound that is suitable for various environments.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Dream linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and offering a low-impact typing experience. Additionally, the Dream switch is described as having a mild feel, offering a gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch is highlighted for its stepped tactile feedback, providing a two-stage tactile sensation that is more subtle compared to hyper-tactile switches. Both switches prioritize a comfortable typing experience, with the Dream focusing on effortless typing and the WS Light Tactile delivering a nuanced tactile feel.
In conclusion, the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Dream switch is optimal for those seeking a light linear option with a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, while the WS Light Tactile switch caters to individuals looking for a tactile switch with a neutral sound signature and a stepped tactile feedback. Ultimately, both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, allowing users to customize their typing experience based on their desired sound and feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you are looking for a light linear switch with a budget-friendly price point, the Dareu Dream switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a noticeable tactile bump and a neutral sound profile, the WS Light Tactile switch may be the better option. Ultimately, the decision will come down to whether you prioritize a smooth linear feel or a tactile typing experience. Take into account your typing style, work environment, and personal preferences to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.