Durock Light Tactile vs. Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options available, each with its own unique characteristics. Two switches that stand out among the rest are the Durock Light Tactile and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear. The Light Tactile switch from Durock is best known for its gentle tactility, offering a refreshingly soft and smooth typing experience. In contrast, the WS Aurora Clear linear switches from Wuque Studio provide a smooth and high-pitched typing experience that is accompanied by a satisfyingly buttery keystroke. Both switches have their own advantages and appeal to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities, so you can best decide on the switch that suits your individual needs and preferences.

By the numbers

Durock Light Tactile Tactile

Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear Linear

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

$8.00 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Durock Light Tactile and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear both feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate lends itself to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for users seeking a distinct and well-defined typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making it a practical choice for gamers and those who enjoy customizable lighting options.

In terms of their bottom housings, the Light Tactile utilizes a nylon material, while the WS Aurora Clear incorporates UHWMPE (ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene). Nylon has long been a favored material for switch housings, as it contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softness allows for greater sound absorption, resulting in a slightly duller and rounder sound. Meanwhile, UHWMPE is a newer material that offers a very bright sound signature, leading to resonant clacks when typing. This material choice brings a vibrant and energetic element to the WS Aurora Clear switch, appealing to users who prefer a more pronounced auditory experience.

It is important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch play distinct roles in its overall sound and feel. The bottom housing has a more noticeable impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. On the other hand, the top housing primarily affects the sound when releasing a key. While the Light Tactile's nylon and the WS Aurora Clear's UHWMPE bottom housings differ, they each contribute unique qualities to the switches' overall performance. However, with both switches featuring polycarbonate top housings, users can expect similar results in terms of the sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile they deliver.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. In terms of weight, both switches fall into the medium-heavy category. The Durock Light Tactile has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, while the WS Aurora Clear has an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. Both switches provide a fairly substantial typing experience due to their heavier forces.

However, there are slight differences between the two switches. The Durock Light Tactile has a slightly higher actuation force, which means it requires a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke compared to the WS Aurora Clear. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear has a slightly lower bottom out force, meaning it requires slightly less force to press the key all the way down.

This distinction in forces may be important for individuals who have specific preferences. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the WS Aurora Clear, as it allows for longer typing periods without causing fatigue. This can be particularly beneficial for those who use their keyboards extensively for work or gaming. Conversely, the Durock Light Tactile may be favored by those who prefer a stronger push feel, as it provides a more substantial typing experience.

In conclusion, while both switches have similar medium-heavy weights, the Durock Light Tactile requires slightly more force to actuate a keystroke, while the WS Aurora Clear has a slightly lower bottom out force. These slight differences in force may influence individual preferences and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

The Durock Light Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, which is considered a traditional travel distance. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Despite the slight difference, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance. However, if you prefer a more responsive feel and faster response times, the WS Aurora Clear with its shorter travel distance might be a better option for you. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances for quick and precise keystrokes. On the contrary, if you prefer a more substantial and less abrupt feel when pressing down on a key, the Durock Light Tactile switch's longer travel distance might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences and how you prioritize travel distance in your typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile. It produces a moderate sound when pressed, which makes it suitable for most typing environments and preferences. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switch is described as having a high-pitched sound. This means that it produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, which may appeal to those who prefer a more distinct and vibrant sound profile. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, if you choose the Light Tactile switch, you can expect a neutral and gentle sound, while the WS Aurora Clear offers a higher-pitched and more lively sound experience.

In terms of feel, the Durock Light Tactile switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. The gentle tactility of these switches gives a comfortable and approachable typing sensation. Additionally, the switch is described as polished, which means it has a smooth and refined finish resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switch provides a mild, buttery, and polished typing experience. The buttery attribute implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing effortless and uniform typing sensation. Just like the Light Tactile switch, the WS Aurora Clear is also polished, ensuring reduced friction and a sleek typing experience. Both switches offer a more gentle and comfortable typing experience with smooth key travel.

Taking all the available information into consideration, the Durock Light Tactile switch stands out for its gentle tactility and neutral sound profile. It provides a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and comfortable key travel. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switch offers a high-pitched sound and a buttery, polished typing experience. It allows for maximum RGB lighting customization and ensures a smooth and fluid keystroke. Therefore, if you prefer a more neutral sound and a gentle tactile typing experience, the Light Tactile switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you desire a sharper sound and a buttery-smooth typing experience with enhanced RGB lighting customization, the WS Aurora Clear switch would be an excellent option. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities and deliver satisfying typing experiences, allowing you to choose based on your preferences.

Conclusion

Therefore, when deciding between the Durock Light Tactile and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you desire. If you prefer a switch with a gentle and angelic tactility, along with a jelly-like sound signature, then the Durock Light Tactile switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a smooth and buttery keystroke experience, along with a high-pitched sound profile, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switch would be a better fit. Both switches offer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are described as mild and polished, providing a safe and approachable typing experience. Keep in mind the WS Aurora Clear's transparent polycarbonate top housing and UHMWPE bottom housing, which allow for maximum RGB lighting customization. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and desired typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Light Tactile Tactile

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn more

Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear Linear

$8.00 per 10

Learn more