Durock Mamba vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Durock Mamba and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Durock Mamba and Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear are both linear switches that provide a smooth typing experience. The Mamba switches are renowned for their tribute to Kobe Bryant and offer a gliding sensation while typing, accompanied by a rich and creamy auditory experience. Categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished', these switches are ideal for those who enjoy a tactile yet quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switches by Wuque elevate your office and work experience with their exceptional responsiveness and satisfying bottom-out. These switches feature ingeniously designed stem railings with discreet cutouts, effectively reducing switch noise. Unlike traditional silent switches, the WS Silent Linear switches forsake silicone dampeners, resulting in a typing experience that is sans the usual cushioned sensation but offers tranquility and precision. Categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Muted', and 'Subdued', these switches are perfect for individuals seeking a highly responsive and quiet typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Extended long spring
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Mamba and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches have some similarities and differences. Both switches utilize nylon for their top housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, but the specific sound characteristics differ between the two. The Mamba's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing offers a slightly brighter sound profile that is not particularly sharp. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear's nylon top housing absorbs more sound due to it being relatively softer plastic, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite these differences, both switches provide a satisfying and pleasant typing experience with their respective nylon top housings.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Durock Mamba incorporates a POM housing, which contributes to an incredibly pleasing and unique sound. This sound profile leans towards the deeper end and is relatively more muted. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, similar to its top housing material. Nylon is once again chosen for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile with a duller and rounder tone. Despite the common use of nylon, the Mamba's POM bottom housing and the WS Silent Linear's nylon bottom housing offer distinct sound characteristics, providing users with different auditory experiences.
When compared side by side, the Durock Mamba and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches demonstrate how the choice of housing materials can significantly impact sound profiles. While both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, the specific blend in the Mamba and the use of UHMWPE contribute to a brighter sound on the top housing. The POM bottom housing of the Mamba creates a relatively more muted sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the WS Silent Linear offers a deeper and fuller tone. Overall, these differences result in unique and distinctive typing experiences, with the Mamba leaning towards a brighter sound and the WS Silent Linear producing a deeper and more rounded tone.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, it is important to note that the exact actuation forces for both switches are unavailable. However, considering the available information, we can identify some similarities and differences. In terms of weight, lighter switches are favored by those who value extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions. For these individuals, the Durock Mamba may be a suitable choice since it is known to have a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium. On the other hand, some users prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience and they may appreciate the WS Silent Linear switch, which has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorized as medium-heavy. In terms of actuation force, since the specific information is unavailable, it is difficult to make a direct comparison. However, if both switches have similar actuation forces, users can expect similar results in terms of triggering a keystroke. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on individual preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
The Durock Mamba linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when you press down on a key utilizing either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance you feel when typing on these switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Mamba has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mamba for $5.17.
The Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear 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, the Durock Mamba linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. This means that whether you are a beginner or advanced user, the switch will provide a satisfactory typing experience at both home and work settings. Additionally, the Mamba switch is described as "thocky," which produces a deep and satisfying sound similar to a soft "knock" or a deep "thud" when pressed and released.
On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch also falls under the neutral sound category with a moderate actuation force requirement. However, it offers a muted sound profile that is softer and quieter compared to regular or clacky switches. The WS Silent Linear switch aims to minimize the noise associated with mechanical keyboards while delivering a more tranquil and precise typing experience. It should be noted that the WS Silent Linear switch also has a subdued sound, meaning it produces a dampened sound when pressed, providing a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches.
In terms of feel, both the Durock Mamba and the WS Silent Linear switches fall under the category of mild switches. This means they provide a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The Mamba switch offers a polished feel, characterized by a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This can be attributed to the materials used or the factory lubing, which reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch does not mention any specific qualities related to its feel, indicating that it falls within the safe and middle-ground zone of mild switches.
In conclusion, the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch share some similarities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches have a neutral sound profile and a moderate actuation force requirement, making them suitable for various purposes and skill levels. Additionally, they both offer a mild typing experience, providing a gentle feel while typing. While the Mamba switch stands out with its thocky sound and polished feel, the WS Silent Linear switch differentiates itself by offering a muted, subdued sound profile that minimizes noise. Overall, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch that offers a gliding typing sensation and a rich, creamy auditory experience, the Durock Mamba linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. With its medium bottom out force of 60 grams, it provides a comfortable and accessible typing experience suitable for both beginners and advanced users in any environment. The Mamba switch is also known for its neutral and thocky sound profile, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet and tranquil typing experience that still maintains responsiveness and a satisfying bottom-out, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch is the way to go. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams, it offers a slightly heavier feel compared to the Mamba switch. The WS Silent Linear switch boasts a unique design that reduces switch noise without the use of silicone dampeners, resulting in a muted and subdued sound signature. This makes it especially suitable for office environments or situations where noise reduction is a priority.
When it comes to the feel, both switches provide a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. However, the Mamba switch takes it a step further with its polished finish, delivering a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch focuses on providing a gentle and comfortable typing feel, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more subtle tactile experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch depends on your specific preferences. Whether you prioritize a gliding typing sensation, a rich sound profile, or a quiet and tranquil typing experience, these switches offer unique characteristics to cater to your needs. Consider your environment, typing style, and desired sound and feel when making your decision.
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