Durock Koala vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Koala and Wuque Studio WS Morandi offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Koalas are a great option for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump that is not too overwhelming. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switches are ideal for those who appreciate smooth linear switches with a touch of innovation in their design. The Morandis also offer a unique light-diffusing effect for enhanced RGB visuals. 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
3.50 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 features a polycarbonate top housing, which gives it a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi has a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. While the Koala's polycarbonate top housing is known for its translucency and ability to enhance RGB lighting, the WS Morandi's POM top housing offers a unique sound experience that is different from the typical polycarbonate sound.
On the bottom housing side, the Durock Koala utilizes nylon, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic nature. This differs from the WS Morandi's POM bottom housing, which also produces a deep and muted sound. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the material used in their bottom housings, with the Koala's nylon providing a slightly duller and rounder sound compared to the POM in the WS Morandi.
Overall, both the Durock Koala and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi showcase how different housing materials can significantly impact the sound profile of a mechanical keyboard switch. While the Koala's polycarbonate top housing creates a clear and resonant sound profile, the WS Morandi's POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted sound. Similarly, both switches utilize materials in their bottom housings that create a unique typing experience, with the nylon in the Koala providing a fuller sound and the POM in the WS Morandi offering a different deep tone. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for sound and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, it is evident that the Koala has a higher bottom out force of 67 grams compared to the WS Morandi's 60 grams. The actuation force of the Koala is unspecified, while the WS Morandi has an actuation force of 50 grams. This means that the WS Morandi requires less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Koala. The Koala's heavier bottom out force might provide a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the WS Morandi's lighter actuation force could be preferable for those who like a lighter typing experience for extended periods of typing or gaming. Both switches offer unique features in terms of force requirements, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, the Koala has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the WS Morandi's 3.5 mm. The Koala's 4.0mm travel distance is more traditional, providing a deeper key press feel, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Morandi's shorter 3.5 mm travel distance is ideal for those seeking quicker response times, making it popular among gamers. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, catering to different preferences. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend on whether you prioritize a deeper key press feel or a faster response time.
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 Morandi comes in at $3.90 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 switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switch offers a low-pitched, subdued sound with a thocky quality, producing a dampened yet satisfying sound when pressed. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, especially when paired with different keyboards and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Durock Koala switch provides a polished and accented typing experience with a stepped tactility that offers a refined and smooth key travel. It also has a stiff response, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate, which can be preferred by typists who prefer a bit of resistance. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switch offers a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience with a unique UPE stem that provides a dry, airy, and smooth keystroke. These switches strike a perfect balance between form and function, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation.
In conclusion, both the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences. While the Koala provides a pronounced bump and low-pitched sound with a polished and stiff feel, the WS Morandi offers a diffused light effect, thocky sound, and buttery, creamy, and silky smoothness. Depending on personal preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetic, both switches provide a unique typing experience that can be customized further with different accessories. Ultimately, whether choosing the Koala for a punchy tactile response or the WS Morandi for a visually appealing and smooth linear feel, newcomers to mechanical keyboards have a range of options to explore based on their individual preferences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, tactility, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a pronounced but not overwhelming bump with a bit of resonance, the Koala might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium bottom out force, ultra-smooth linear switches with a unique dry and airy feel, and a slightly more muted sound profile, the WS Morandi could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and typing experience desired.
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