Dareu Holly vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Holly, a tactile switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear, a linear switch, offer distinct features catering to different preferences. The Holly stands out with its medium 50g actuation force, providing a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements for a balanced and distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear from Wuque Studio prioritizes reducing switch noise with ingeniously designed stem railings, resulting in unparalleled responsiveness and a satisfying bottom-out without the use of silicone dampeners. While the Holly offers a more tactile typing experience with its chirpy and clacky sound profile, the WS Silent Linear provides a quieter and smoother typing experience for those seeking a blend of tranquility and precision. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Holly and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches, the most notable difference lies in the top housing material. The Holly features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear uses a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. This contrast results in a more resonant and clear sound from the Holly, while the WS Silent Linear offers a mellower and rounder sound experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Holly and the WS Silent Linear switches utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. As a result, both switches offer a similar sound experience when it comes to bottom-out sound and feel. The shared use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that users will experience a consistent sound quality regardless of the switch chosen, providing a familiar and comfortable typing experience.
In summary, while the top housings of the Dareu Holly and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches differ in material, their bottom housings share the same nylon construction. This discrepancy in top housing material results in distinct sound profiles, with the Holly offering a sharper and crisper sound and the WS Silent Linear providing a deeper and fuller sound. However, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that both switches deliver a consistent and satisfying typing experience with a familiar touch and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, it is clear that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Holly has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, while the WS Silent Linear has an unknown actuation force. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the bottom out force of the Holly is unknown. The weight of a switch is crucial as it affects typing endurance and the overall feel of the keyboard. Those who prefer a lighter touch may gravitate towards the Holly for extended typing sessions or gaming, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the WS Silent Linear. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Dareu Holly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Gamers tend to prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the WS Silent Linear a popular choice among gamers. However, some may find the abruptness of a shorter travel distance to be uncomfortable. In contrast, the Dareu Holly with its slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a deeper press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Silent Linear 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 Holly tactile switch offers a unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, providing a balanced and distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch focuses on reducing switch noise without the use of silicone dampeners, resulting in a more tranquil and precise typing experience. Both switches fall into the category of neutral sound profiles, making them suitable for various environments and user preferences. When choosing between the two, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of the specific sound signature desired.
Moving on to the feel, information about the Dareu Holly tactile switch was not provided. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch offers a mild typing experience that is gentle and approachable to most users. The qualities of these switches fall within a safe, middle-ground zone, ensuring a comfortable typing experience without any extreme characteristics. Whether someone prefers a more subtle and subdued typing feel or a balanced and distinct tactile feedback, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience.
When considering the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch in comparison, the sound profile and feel of each switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Holly stands out with its chirpy and clacky sound elements, while the WS Silent Linear excels in providing a quieter and more precise typing experience. If a user is looking for a switch with a distinct sound profile, the Holly would be the better choice, whereas those seeking a quieter and more refined typing experience may prefer the WS Silent Linear. Ultimately, both switches offer quality typing experiences tailored to specific preferences, ensuring that users can achieve their desired typing feel and sound.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you are looking for a unique typing experience with a balanced mix of chirpy and clacky sound elements, the Holly switch with its medium 50g actuation force is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet and precise typing experience without the cushioned sensation typically associated with silent switches, the WS Silent Linear with its medium-heavy 63.5g bottom out force may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prefer a distinct sound signature or a muted, tranquil typing experience.