Durock Medium Tactile vs. Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options stand out: the Durock Medium Tactile and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear. The Medium Tactile switch boasts a unique flavor that Durock has masterfully crafted. Its defining feature is a well-balanced tactility that offers a satisfying feedback without being overly pronounced. Additionally, the Medium Tactile switch produces a jelly-like sound signature that adds a touch of auditory pleasure to your typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear switch from Wuque Studio is a linear switch, providing typists with a smooth and high-pitched typing experience. What sets this switch apart is its transparent polycarbonate top housing, allowing for stunning RGB lighting customization. The POM stem is also lightly lubed, resulting in minimal friction and an exceptionally smooth keystroke. Both switches have their merits, offering different tactile and auditory experiences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for you.

By the numbers

Durock Medium Tactile Tactile

Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear Linear

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

$8.00 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Durock Medium Tactile and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear both have polycarbonate top housings, which provide similar characteristics in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal. The use of polycarbonate in both switches creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial if RGB lighting is desired. Therefore, both switches offer similar results when it comes to the sound produced and the use of RGB lighting.

However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Medium Tactile utilizes nylon while the WS Aurora Clear uses UHWMPE. The nylon bottom housing of the Medium Tactile contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the UHWMPE bottom housing of the WS Aurora Clear offers a brighter sound signature, producing resonant clacks when typing. These differences in bottom housing material create variations in the sound and feel of the bottom-out of the keys between the two switches.

It's important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch have different impacts on the overall sound and feel. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing are felt, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing of the Medium Tactile will provide a deeper and fuller typing experience, while the UHWMPE bottom housing of the WS Aurora Clear will offer brighter and more resonant clacks. On the other hand, the top housing of the switch has more influence on the sound when letting go of a key. Therefore, both switches will exhibit some differences in sound and feel due to their varied housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The actuation force of the Durock Medium Tactile switch is unavailable, making it difficult to determine its specific force requirement for triggering a keystroke. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear has an actuation force of 53 grams, making it relatively light compared to the Durock Medium Tactile.

In terms of bottom out force, the Durock Medium Tactile has a force requirement of 65 grams, indicating a medium-heavy feel when pressing the keys all the way down. In comparison, the WS Aurora Clear has a slightly lower bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is also considered medium-heavy.

Considering weight as an important factor, individuals who prefer lighter switches may find the WS Aurora Clear more suitable for their needs. The lighter actuation force allows for longer typing sessions, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. However, for those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Durock Medium Tactile would be a better choice due to its heavier force requirements.

Although the actuation force of the Durock Medium Tactile is unavailable, both switches share a similar medium-heavy bottom out force, providing a comparable typing experience in that regard. Overall, the Durock Medium Tactile is the heavier option, while the WS Aurora Clear offers a lighter actuation force.

Travel distance

The Durock Medium Tactile switch has a travel distance of 4.0mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Medium Tactile being slightly longer and the WS Aurora Clear being slightly shorter. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Medium Tactile provides a more pronounced depth when pressing down on the key, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more hearty feel. On the other hand, the 3.8mm travel distance of the WS Aurora Clear offers a slightly quicker response time and may be favored by gamers or those who prioritize speed. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences and whether one values a longer travel distance for added depth or a shorter distance for increased responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is known for its jelly-like sound signature. While the specific sound characteristics are not described, it is likely to have a unique and satisfying sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear switch is described as having a high-pitched sound. This means that when pressed, it produces a sharp and crisp sound. If you prefer a richer and bassier sound profile, the Medium Tactile switch would be a better choice. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is described using several descriptors. It is referred to as an "accented" switch, which means it offers a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Additionally, it is described as a "stepped" switch, meaning it feels like it has two stages of tactility, providing some pre-travel and/or post-travel. The Medium Tactile switch is also categorized as "mild," offering a gentle typing experience that can be enjoyed by most users. Lastly, it is mentioned that the switch is "polished," indicating a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and provides a sleek typing experience.

The WS Aurora Clear switch also shares some similarities in terms of feel with the Medium Tactile switch. It is described as having a "mild" typing experience, falling within a safe and middle-ground zone. The switch is also mentioned to be "polished," indicating a smooth and refined finish resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, it is described as "buttery," suggesting a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation.

Based on the available information, it can be concluded that both switches offer pleasant typing experiences. The Durock Medium Tactile switch provides a balanced and pronounced tactility, along with a jelly-like sound signature. The WS Aurora Clear switch, on the other hand, offers a smooth and high-pitched typing experience, with maximum RGB lighting customization due to its transparent top housing. While there are slight differences in their sound profiles, both switches share characteristics such as being mild, polished, and offering a gentle typing experience. Therefore, if you prefer a tactile switch with a balanced tactility and a jelly-like sound, the Medium Tactile switch would be a suitable choice. Alternatively, if you prefer a linear switch with a smooth and high-pitched typing experience, along with maximum RGB lighting customization, the WS Aurora Clear switch would be a great option.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a pronounced yet balanced tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Medium Tactile is a great choice for you. With its medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, this switch provides a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and high-pitched typing experience with maximum RGB lighting customization, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch is the way to go. With its transparent polycarbonate top housing, UHMWPE bottom housing, and lightly lubed POM stem, this switch offers minimal friction and a buttery smooth keystroke. Both switches have a mild and polished feel, ensuring a comfortable and sleek typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to your preferred level of tactility and sound profile.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Medium Tactile Tactile

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn more

Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear Linear

$8.00 per 10

Learn more