Dareu Holly vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Holly and Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile both offer tactile feedback but cater to different preferences. The Dareu Holly, known for its medium 50g actuation force, provides a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, appealing to users seeking a balanced and distinctive typing experience. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile switches maintain smoothness with a snappy tactile bump and feature a neutral sound signature, making them easy to press. While both switches offer tactile feedback, the Holly is more chirpy and clacky, while the WS Light Tactile is stepped and easy-to-press. 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
50g
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
The Dareu Holly and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows for a visually pleasing effect. Both keyboards showcase the benefits of using polycarbonate in the top housing, providing a premium sound experience for users.
While the top housing of both keyboards is made of polycarbonate, the bottom housing of the Dareu Holly is constructed of nylon. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. In contrast, the bottom housing of the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile also features nylon, highlighting the classic switch housing material that contributes to a duller and rounder sound. Despite the differences in bottom housing materials, both keyboards prioritize sound quality and offer a unique typing experience.
The division of housing materials in the Dareu Holly and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile affects the overall sound and feel of the keyboards. The qualities of the bottom housing material are more noticeable when pressing down on a key, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing material plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. This distinction allows each keyboard to offer a balanced typing experience, combining the characteristics of both housing materials to create a harmonious sound profile.
Weight
The Dareu Holly tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the WS Light Tactile switch requires 50 grams while the bottom out force for the Holly switch is unknown. In terms of weight, the WS Light Tactile switch is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Holly switch. The actuation force is an important factor to consider as it determines the force needed to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force reflects the amount of force required to press the key all the way down. Some may prefer a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer a heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing needs.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch have a travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on the key of either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. This makes both switches equally suitable for individuals who prefer a key with a shorter travel distance compared to switches with longer distances. Whether you choose the Holly or the WS Light Tactile, you can expect to achieve similar results in terms of key press feel and performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly 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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Holly switch offers a unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, providing users with a distinctive typing experience that stands out. The WS Light Tactile, on the other hand, maintains a more neutral sound profile, appealing to a wider range of users who prefer a moderate sound output. Depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard, either switch can provide an enjoyable auditory experience.
Moving on to feel, the Dareu Holly switch does not have specific descriptors provided, so it is difficult to directly compare it to the WS Light Tactile switches. The WS Light Tactile switches are reported to have a stepped feel, offering a tactile sensation with two distinct stages in the keystroke. Additionally, they are labeled as easy-to-press switches, providing a gentle resistance that requires minimal force to activate. This can lead to a comfortable and efficient typing experience that may reduce finger fatigue during longer typing sessions.
Considering both switches overall, the Dareu Holly and WS Light Tactile switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Holly switch is characterized by its chirpy and clacky sound profile, the WS Light Tactile switches provide a smoother tactile experience with a neutral sound output. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, as well as the specific typing needs of the user. Regardless of the choice made, both switches offer quality performance that can enhance the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, you should consider your preference for sound and feel. If you are looking for a unique typing experience with a combination of chirpy and clacky sounds, the Holly switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and neutral sound profile, the WS Light Tactile switch is the better option. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with no bottom out force, the Holly switch is a good choice, whereas if you prefer a light 50g bottom out force, the WS Light Tactile switch is more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and feel when typing.