Durock Light Tactile vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Durock Light Tactile switch is praised for its gentle and angelic tactility, providing a softer typing experience compared to sharper tactile switches. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch offers smoothness with a snappy tactile bump and a neutral sound signature. While the Durock switch is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the WS Light Tactile switch is categorized as 'Stepped', 'Neutral', and 'Easy-to-press'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that may appeal to different 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
52g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiff nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting. However, where the switches differ is in their nylon bottom housing. The Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Similarly, the WS Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing provides a similar effect on sound quality, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While both the Light Tactile and WS Light Tactile utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, the differences lie in their bottom housing materials. The choice of nylon for the bottom housing of both switches affects the sound and feel of typing, with nylon providing a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. This split in housing materials means that when typing on these switches, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more prominent during the actuation, while the top housing will impact the sound when a key is released. Overall, the use of different materials for the top and bottom housings allows for a varied typing experience that incorporates both the crispness of polycarbonate and the depth of nylon.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Light Tactile and WS Light Tactile switches play a significant role in determining their sound profiles and typing experiences. The polycarbonate top housing of both switches contributes to a sharper and crisper sound, especially beneficial for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of these switches enhances the sound quality by providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite their differences in bottom housing materials, both switches offer a unique typing experience that combines the strengths of each material for a well-rounded sound and feel.
Weight
The Durock Light Tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. Similarly, the Durock switch also has a higher bottom out force of 67 grams, while the WS switch has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. These differences in force make the Durock switch a medium-heavy option, while the WS switch falls on the lighter side. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the WS Light Tactile switch would be the better choice. Conversely, individuals looking for a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Durock Light Tactile switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness from both switches. The travel distance of these switches is relatively short compared to other tactile switches on the market, which may appeal to typists who prefer a shallower keypress. Additionally, the similar travel distance of both switches ensures that users will get comparable results when using either one, allowing for a seamless transition between keyboards equipped with either switch.
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 Light Tactile comes in at $4.20 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, both the Durock Light Tactile and the WS Light Tactile switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a variety of environments and users. The Durock switch offers a jelly-like sound signature, adding a unique touch to its angelic tactility, while the WS switch provides a more standard sound experience. Keep in mind that the overall sound can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Durock Light Tactile switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and refined feel that falls in a safe middle ground for most users. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch offers a stepped feel with easy key presses, providing a more distinct tactile bump while still maintaining a light actuation force. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience with their respective qualities, catering to users looking for a smooth and comfortable typing feel.
In conclusion, both the Durock Light Tactile and the WS Light Tactile switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Durock switch provides a softer tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, the WS switch offers a more stepped feel with easy-to-press key presses. Depending on your personal preference and typing style, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with either of these tactile switches. Overall, whether you choose the Durock or WS Light Tactile switch, you can expect a pleasant typing experience with similar results in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Light Tactile and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches, consider the following factors. If you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a gentle tactility that provides a unique typing experience with a jelly-like sound signature, then the Durock Light Tactile switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, snappy tactile bump that offers a neutral sound signature, then the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, your preference for typing feel and sound profile will determine which switch is the best fit for your needs.