Durock Koala vs. Wuque Studio WS Jade
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, you'll find that each offers distinct characteristics to enhance your typing experience. The Koalas strike a balance for those seeking a tactile response that is satisfying yet not overwhelming, with a pronounced bump and a touch of resonance. On the other hand, the WS Jades stand out for their use of a metallic insert to produce a bright, resonant sound and a smooth typing feel. While the Koalas are characterized by being polished, low-pitched, and stepped, the WS Jades are known for being clacky, marbly, and silky. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Durock Koala and the Wuque Studio WS Jade both feature top housing materials that significantly influence the sound profile of the switch. The Koala utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the WS Jade's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials are known for their unique sound characteristics, they offer distinct experiences when it comes to typing and gaming.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, the differences between the Durock Koala and the Wuque Studio WS Jade become more apparent. The Koala features a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the WS Jade utilizes a POM bottom housing, which complements its POM top housing to create a consistent deep and muted sound profile. While both materials contribute to the overall typing experience, they offer slightly varied tactile feedback and sound qualities.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Koala and the Wuque Studio WS Jade ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel. While the Koala's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing provides a sharp and clear sound on top, with a deep and fuller sound on the bottom, the WS Jade's POM top and bottom housing offer a consistent and muted sound profile throughout. Both switches offer unique typing experiences, showcasing the impact that housing materials can have on the overall feel and sound of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, we can see that the Koala has a bottom out force of 67 grams, while the WS Jade has a bottom out force of 60 grams, making the Koala slightly heavier. However, the actuation force of the Koala is listed as None grams, whereas the WS Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams, making the WS Jade require a bit more force to trigger a keystroke. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the WS Jade may be the better option due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Koala for its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Durock Koala tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Koala has a slightly longer travel distance than the WS Jade, providing a bit more depth when pressing down on the key. Gamers may prefer the WS Jade for its shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired key feel. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance typing or gaming experiences.
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 Jade comes in at $4.30 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 Durock Koala tactile switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone without being too loud. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch is described as clacky, marbly, and resonant, producing a sharp, bright, and percussive sound when pressed. The sound of the WS Jade is clean and sharp, creating an immersive auditory experience. When comparing the two, the Koala offers a more subdued and neutral sound, while the WS Jade provides a more vibrant and percussive sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Koala tactile switch is polished, accented, stepped, and stiff, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a noticeable but not overwhelming bump during keystrokes. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch is described as silky and creamy, providing an exceptionally smooth and buttery typing experience with a uniquely rock-solid bottom-out. The WS Jade offers a creamy sensation that allows fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys, providing a luxurious typing experience. In comparison, the Koala offers a more accentuated tactile feedback and a stiffer keystroke feel.
Overall, the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Koala provides a balanced and neutral sound profile with a polished and accented tactile feel, while the WS Jade offers a bright and resonant sound profile with a silky and creamy typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, both switches are reputable options within the mechanical keyboard community and are sure to deliver satisfying results for newcomers to the hobby.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, you should consider your preference for tactility and sound profile. If you enjoy a pronounced tactile bump without the need for excessive force and prefer a low-pitched and neutral sound, the Koala would be a suitable choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and creamy typing experience with a unique metallic sound profile, along with a clacky, marbly, and resonant sound, the WS Jade would be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall experience you seek from your mechanical keyboard switches.
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