Durock Koala vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Koala and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile mechanical keyboard switches, one can see that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Koalas strike a perfect balance for users who enjoy a tactile response without being overpowering, offering a pronounced bump that is not overly loud. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switches provide a more intense tactile experience with a 70g bump and a satisfying "thocky" sound, giving users a more engaging typing experience. While the Koalas are described as polished, low-pitched, and neutral, the WS Heavy Tactile switches are characterized as bouncy, clacky, sharp, and snappy. Each switch has its own distinct qualities that may appeal to different users based on their 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
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Koala and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile, one significant difference lies in the top housing material. The Koala features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound with its softer plastic composition. This variation in top housing material contributes to distinct sound characteristics between the two switches.
Moving on to the bottom housing material, both the Koala and the WS Heavy Tactile utilize nylon for this component. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile as it absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. Therefore, in this aspect, both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality. The use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that the switches produce a duller and rounder sound, contributing to a satisfying typing experience for users who prefer a quieter switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of the switch. While the Koala and the WS Heavy Tactile both feature nylon bottom housings, their contrasting top housing materials result in different sound characteristics. The polycarbonate top housing of the Koala delivers a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the nylon top housing of the WS Heavy Tactile offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. The combination of these housing materials in each switch balances the sound profile to provide a unique typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Koala switch has an actuation force of None grams, which means it is a light switch in terms of triggering keystrokes, but it requires 67 grams to bottom out, providing a moderately heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch has a lower actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes, but a slightly higher bottom out force of 70 grams, which puts it in the medium-heavy category. In terms of weight, the Koala switch is lighter due to its lack of an actuation force, while the WS Heavy Tactile switch is heavier overall. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with lighter switches being more suitable for prolonged typing sessions and heavier switches providing a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Koala tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered more traditional, while the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. Gamers may prefer the WS Heavy Tactile switch for its faster response times due to the shorter travel distance, while others may find the Koala switch more satisfying with its longer travel distance for a more pronounced key press. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distance, catering to different preferences in typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in how you want your keystrokes to feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Koala has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Koala for $4.21.
The Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile 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 Koala switches are known for their low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for most users. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches offer a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound that is sharp and percussive, creating an immersive auditory experience. If you prefer a quieter and more neutral sound, the Koala switches would be the way to go, while the WS Heavy Tactile switches are perfect for those who enjoy a more pronounced and engaging typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Durock Koala switches are described as polished, accented, stepped, and stiff, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a moderate tactile feel. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches provide an accented, bouncy, invigorating, sharp, and snappy feel, giving a spring-like feedback sensation with a strong and distinct tactile bump. If you prefer a more mild and refined tactile experience, the Koala switches would be a great choice, while the WS Heavy Tactile switches are perfect for those seeking a more pronounced and responsive tactile feedback.
Overall, the Durock Koala switches and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Koala switches provide a balanced and moderate typing experience, while the WS Heavy Tactile switches deliver a more intense and engaging feel. Depending on whether you prefer a quieter, neutral sound and a smooth, refined feel (Koala) or a sharp, resonant sound with a strong and snappy tactile feedback (WS Heavy Tactile), you can achieve similar satisfying results in your typing experience based on your individual preferences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the Durock Koala tactile switch or the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, you should take into account your preference for bottom out force, tactility, sound, and overall feel. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and a tactile bump that is not too aggressive, the Koala may be the better choice for you. Additionally, if you prefer a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, as well as a polished and stepped feel, the Koala could be the perfect fit. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly heavier bottom out force and a more pronounced tactile experience with a "thocky" sound, the WS Heavy Tactile might be more suitable. Furthermore, if you prefer a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound with an accented, bouncy, invigorating, sharp, and snappy feel, the WS Heavy Tactile could provide the typing experience you desire. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to ensure that you choose the switch that best suits your needs.
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