Durock Light Tactile vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Durock Light Tactile and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow. The Light Tactile switch from Durock is known for its exceptionally gentle tactility, offering a refreshing change from the sharper tactile switches commonly found in the market. Typing on these switches provides an angelic tactility and a jelly-like sound signature. On the other hand, the WS Yellow linear switches from Wuque Studio boast a timeless fusion of classic materials and cutting-edge engineering. With a 22mm double-stage spring, these switches deliver a delightful typing experience, featuring a satisfying bounce. Additionally, their material blend offers a familiar sound signature that enthusiasts adore. Crafted to be lightweight, they ensure effortless keystrokes and a smooth, fluid typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision regarding which switch is ideal for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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 double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Durock Light Tactile and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow have different housing materials that greatly impact their sound profiles. The Light Tactile features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that produces a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the WS Yellow has a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound profile. While they differ in sound characteristics, both housings are ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to their translucency.
In terms of their bottom housings, both the Light Tactile and the WS Yellow utilize nylon as a classic switch housing material. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Thus, the bottom housings of both switches contribute to the overall sound experience.
Although the top and bottom housings differ between the two switches, both materials offer distinct sound profiles. The bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down a key, while the top housing has a significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. Whether it's the polycarbonate top housing of the Light Tactile or the nylon top housing of the WS Yellow, users can expect a unique and immersive sound experience when using these switches. However, it's important to note that the Light Tactile's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper and crisper sound, while the WS Yellow's nylon housing generates a deeper and fuller sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Durock Light Tactile has an actuation force of 52 grams, which is the force required to trigger a keystroke, and a bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the WS Yellow's actuation force is not provided, but it has a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it medium-light.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer lighter switches like the WS Yellow for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. These switches allow for reduced finger fatigue and a smoother typing experience. In contrast, those who desire a more substantial typing feel may opt for switches with heavier forces, such as the Durock Light Tactile. These switches provide a stronger push feel, which can enhance the typing experience for some users.
Although the actuation force of the WS Yellow is unknown, it is evident that it has a lighter bottom out force compared to the Durock Light Tactile. Therefore, if a user desires a similar typing experience to the Durock Light Tactile, they may find the WS Yellow to be a suitable alternative due to its medium-light bottom out force. Overall, the Durock Light Tactile is heavier in both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Wuque Studio WS Yellow.
Travel distance
The Durock Light Tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both of these switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Durock Light Tactile being on the longer side and the WS Yellow on the shorter side. Gamers often opt for shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times, making the WS Yellow a popular choice for gaming enthusiasts. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Durock Light Tactile with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on 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 Yellow 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
In terms of sound, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. This makes it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or if you plan to use the switches at home or work. On the other hand, there is no specific information provided about the sound of the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switch. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Based on the available information, it is likely that the WS Yellow would offer a similar neutral sound profile as the Light Tactile switch, providing a pleasing and balanced auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Light Tactile switch is described as offering a mild and polished typing experience. The mild characteristic indicates a gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, making it approachable for most users. Additionally, the switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in sleek key travel with reduced friction. This combination of mildness and polish ensures a comfortable and effortless typing experience. The Wuque Studio WS Yellow switch also shares the descriptors of mild and polished, suggesting a similar typing experience. Furthermore, the WS Yellow switch is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery sensation while typing. This can be attributed to lubricant applied in the switch at the factory or specific materials used. Overall, both switches are likely to provide a gentle and polished feel, allowing for smooth and comfortable keystrokes.
Considering the available information, the Durock Light Tactile switch is a popular choice for those seeking a gentle and jelly-like tactile experience. It offers a neutral sound profile and a mild, polished feel, making it suitable for a wide range of users. The Wuque Studio WS Yellow switch, on the other hand, presents itself as a timeless fusion of classic materials and cutting-edge engineering. While specific information about its sound is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that it would offer a similar neutral sound profile as the Light Tactile switch. Furthermore, the WS Yellow switch provides a creamy typing experience in addition to a mild and polished feel. These switches are crafted to be lightweight, ensuring effortless keystrokes and a smooth typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique qualities, and your choice between them may depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a gentle tactile experience, the Durock Light Tactile would be an excellent choice. Its angelic tactility and jelly-like sound signature provide a unique typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a smooth and buttery typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch would be a great option. With its creamy feel and satisfying bounce, it offers effortless keystrokes and a familiar sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preference for tactile feedback and typing experience.
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