Durock Light Tactile vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that are worth considering are the Durock Light Tactile and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches. The Durock Light Tactile switch stands out for its gentle tactility, offering a refreshing contrast to the sharper tactile switches commonly found in the market. Typing on these switches provides a heavenly tactility, accompanied by a pleasant jelly-like sound. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches are known for their profound and pronounced tactile bump. With a tactile force of 70g, each keystroke delivers a satisfying resistance, making typing an engaging and immersive experience. Additionally, these switches offer a captivating sound profile thanks to Wuque Studios' innovative nylon housings, resulting in a pleasing "thocky" resonance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities, so you can make an informed decision and choose the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
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
The Durock Light Tactile and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile differ in terms of their top housing materials. The Light Tactile features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is relatively stiffer, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the Light Tactile's translucent polycarbonate housing is ideal for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant and visually appealing effects. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and provides a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of bottom housing, both switches use nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deep and rich sound profile when typing. Nylon's softness allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a mellower and more atmospheric auditory experience. Therefore, both the Light Tactile and the WS Heavy Tactile will provide similar sound characteristics due to their shared nylon bottom housing.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles in sound production. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become noticeable, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. The Durock Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing and the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon bottom housing both contribute to a deep and full sound when typing. However, when releasing a key, the impact of the top housing becomes more prominent. The Light Tactile's polycarbonate top housing creates a distinct sharp and crisp sound when keys are released, while the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon top housing offers a mellower and rounder sound during key release. Overall, the Light Tactile and the WS Heavy Tactile differ in their sound profiles based on the materials used in their top housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that they differ in terms of weight. The Light Tactile switch has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy range. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch has an unspecified actuation force, but its bottom out force is 45 grams, making it lighter in comparison.
Weight is an important factor to consider as it can significantly impact the typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter switch may opt for the WS Heavy Tactile, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. It is well-suited for individuals who use their keyboards extensively at work or during extended gaming sessions. In contrast, individuals who prefer a more substantial push feel and desire a stronger typing experience may prefer the Light Tactile switch with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces.
The similarities between the two switches lie in the fact that both offer a tactile typing experience, providing feedback upon actuation. While the specific actuation force for the WS Heavy Tactile switch is unspecified, individuals seeking a similar experience to the Light Tactile switch can expect comparable results in terms of tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches boils down to personal preference regarding the desired typing experience and the importance of weight in one's usage scenario.
Travel distance
The Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch have contrasting travel distances. The Light Tactile has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional and deeper travel distance. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm, which falls into the category of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, particularly among gamers for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the shorter travel distance of the WS Heavy Tactile may be more suitable for you. However, if you prefer a more substantial depth to the key press, the longer travel distance of the Durock Light Tactile would be the preferable option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches boils down to personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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 Light Tactile switch offers a gentle and jelly-like sound signature. It provides an angelic tactility that is a refreshing contrast to the sharper tactile switches commonly found in the market. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch presents a more pronounced and captivating sound profile. Thanks to the nylon housings used, these switches produce a satisfying auditory feedback with a "thocky" resonance. This creates an immersive typing experience that many enthusiasts enjoy. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, if you prefer a softer and gentler sound, the Light Tactile switch is a great choice, while the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a more pronounced and captivating sound.
In terms of feel, the Durock Light Tactile switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. With its middle-ground qualities, it offers a gentle tactile feedback that is approachable to most users. The switch also has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch offers an invigorating and sharp tactile experience. Its pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and snappy feel create an immersive typing sensation. Additionally, these switches have a bouncy and elastic feedback sensation, providing a lively feel and rebound when pressed. If you prefer a milder and polished typing experience, the Light Tactile switch is a suitable choice. However, if you desire a more pronounced and invigorating tactile feedback, the WS Heavy Tactile switch would be a great fit.
In conclusion, the Durock Light Tactile switch stands out for its gentle tactility and jelly-like sound signature, offering a softer and more approachable typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch boasts a profound and pronounced tactile bump, creating a more engaging and immersive journey while typing. Additionally, the WS Heavy Tactile switch produces a captivating and resonant sound with its "thocky" resonance. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a gentler and softer typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Light Tactile switch is a suitable choice. However, if you crave a more pronounced and immersive tactile feedback with a clacky and resonant sound, the WS Heavy Tactile switch would be a great option. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit in different ways.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a gentler tactile experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Durock Light Tactile switch is an excellent choice. It offers an angelic tactility that contrasts with sharper tactile switches on the market. Additionally, it has a jelly-like sound signature that adds to the typing experience. On the other hand, if you're seeking a pronounced and profound tactile bump with a lighter bottom out force, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch is the way to go. These switches provide satisfying resistance and a captivating sound profile. The nylon housings contribute to a "thocky" resonance, enhancing the auditory feedback with each keystroke. Overall, both switches offer unique characteristics to cater to different preferences in sound and feel. Regardless of your choice, you'll experience a delightful and immersive typing journey.
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