Dareu Master vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice can significantly impact your typing experience, and two notable linear options to consider are the Dareu Master and the Wuque Studio WS POM+. The Dareu Master switch is celebrated for its medium weight and a classic clacky sound signature, combining a polished feel with impressive smoothness during operation, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a responsive yet tactile typing experience. In contrast, the WS POM+ offers a deeper, satisfying "thock" that many enthusiasts find appealing, along with a buttery-smooth keystroke that is both subdued and silky. This switch caters to users who prefer a more muted auditory experience while maintaining excellent performance. Both switches have their distinct advantages, whether you're drawn to the vibrant sound and feel of the Master or the refined elegance of the WS POM+. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Master and the Wuque Studio WS POM+, both switches utilize the same material for their top and bottom housings: Polyoxymethylene (POM). This similarity in material choice suggests a unified approach to sound design, leading to comparable acoustics and tactile feelings when using both switches. The use of POM in both configurations contributes to an exceptionally pleasing and unique sound profile, characterized by deeper tones and a relatively muted overall experience. Thus, users can expect a similar auditory feedback when engaging with either switch, despite any potential differences in other aspects of their design.
Both the Dareu Master and the WS POM+ feature POM housings that contribute to an overall soundscape that is rich and deeper in quality. Since both switches share the same material for their top and bottom housings, any audio characteristics or tactile distinctions between them may primarily arise from other design factors such as spring tension or overall switch architecture rather than differences in housing properties. As such, users might find that while the feel and performance in terms of actuation might vary slightly based on the individual switch design, the fundamental sound profile provided by the POM material remains consistent across both types.
In essence, the real value of the Dareu Master and the WS POM+ lies in their shared POM structure, which inherently leads to a similar sound experience for those who engage with either switch. As such, players looking for a distinctive sound that leans toward deeper, muted tones will find satisfaction in both options. The overall impression when bottoming out on a key will feel abundantly pleasing, due to the characteristic behavior of the POM material, which manages to deliver rich acoustics in both configurations. Thus, despite potential variances in switch performance, the sound profile will likely remain harmoniously aligned due to their common housing material.
Weight
The Dareu Master linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch exhibit notable similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches feature an actuation force of 45 grams, which means that users will experience a similar keystroke trigger, making them suitable for long typing or gaming sessions. However, the significant contrast lies in their bottom out forces; while the bottom out force of the Dareu Master is unknown, the WS POM+ has a clearly defined bottom out force of 55 grams, indicating a heavier feel when the key is fully pressed down. This additional weight may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Consequently, users seeking a lighter switch should prefer the Dareu Master, given its known actuation force, while those who enjoy a heftier response may gravitate towards the WS POM+ due to its additional bottom out resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Dareu Master linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, we find that the Master switch features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the WS POM+ has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Dareu Master the shorter option, providing a more responsive experience that may appeal to gamers seeking quicker actuation. On the other hand, the WS POM+, with its longer travel distance, may offer a more satisfying depth for users who prefer a less abrupt feel when typing. Ultimately, those seeking a faster response time should gravitate toward the Master switch, whereas those who appreciate a more deliberate key press might favor the WS POM+.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
The Wuque Studio WS POM+ comes in at $3.90 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 Dareu Master switch presents a classic clacky sound signature that is sharp and percussive, bringing a crisp and lively auditory feedback with every keystroke. This sound can invigorate the typing experience, as every press emits a distinctive and engaging auditory response. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ produces a deep and satisfying thock sound that ventures into a low-pitched realm. Its rich tonal quality can be likened to a gentle thud or soft knock, delivering a more subdued and bass-heavy soundscape overall. While both switches offer unique auditory experiences, the Master is energetic and bright, while the WS POM+ leans toward a more mellow and satisfying thock, allowing users to choose based on their preferred auditory preference.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Master switch is characterized by its polished nature, resulting in a smooth and refined keystroke that minimizes friction during typing. This design allows for an effortless experience, making it an appealing option for users who prioritize a clean and sleek motion when typing. In contrast, the WS POM+ is often described as buttery and silky, providing a seamless, fluid keystroke experience. This smoothness not only ensures ease of use but also enhances the overall typing sensation, making each keypress feel almost effortless. While both switches deliver a high-quality feel, the Master emphasizes a polished action, while the WS POM+ elevates it with an even more fluid and luxurious typing experience.
When evaluating the Dareu Master and the Wuque Studio WS POM+, both switches cater to different preferences across sound and feel. The Master offers a crisp, clacky sound and a polished typing experience, making it suitable for those who enjoy an energetic auditory feedback and a well-refined touch. In contrast, the WS POM+ excels in delivering a deep thock sound paired with a buttery, silky feel, appealing to those who prefer a richer sound profile and an ultra-smooth keystroke. Ultimately, whether you choose the Master for its classic qualities or the WS POM+ for its luxurious ambiance, both switches promise satisfying performance, making them solid choices for newcomers in the mechanical keyboard sphere.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Dareu Master linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch largely depends on your personal typing style and auditory preferences. If you appreciate a classic clacky sound that is sharp and percussive, the Master is an excellent choice, providing a medium weight that allows for an enjoyable balance between responsiveness and control. Its polished feel adds an extra element of smoothness to your typing, making it perfect for those who type quickly and want a tactile, engaging experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper, richer thock sound that is low-pitched and more subdued, the WS POM+ will likely cater to your tastes. This switch offers a buttery and silky keystroke that enhances overall typing comfort and satisfaction, making it ideal for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, choose the Master if you're looking for something vibrant and lively, or opt for the WS POM+ if you want a smooth, deeper experience that feels luxurious under your fingers.