Durock Medium Tactile vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi
An in-depth look at the Durock Medium Tactile and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, look no further than the Durock Medium Tactile and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi. The Medium Tactile switch stands out for its unique flavor in the world of tactile switches. It offers a pronounced yet balanced tactility, giving you that satisfying feedback with each keystroke. Additionally, it has a distinctive jelly-like sound signature. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switches from Wuque Studio shine in terms of innovation and visual aesthetics. These linear switches boast an ultra-smooth feel and feature a stunning light diffusion column that enhances RGB visuals. With a medium weight and a slightly shortened total travel, they strike the perfect balance between form and function. While both switches offer their own advantages, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Medium Tactile and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi differ in terms of their sound profiles and aesthetics. The Medium Tactile features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. This stiffness of the polycarbonate plastic also leads to a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the WS Morandi's POM top housing produces a deeper and relatively more muted sound. While both materials contribute to unique sound profiles, the Medium Tactile offers a sharper and more vibrant sound compared to the WS Morandi.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Medium Tactile utilizes a nylon material, while the WS Morandi uses POM. Nylon creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the WS Morandi contributes to its pleasing and unique sound, which leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted. Despite their differences, both nylon and POM bring distinctive qualities to the overall sound profile of each switch.
In terms of typing experience, the qualities of the bottom housing are more prominent for both switches. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. This means that the housing material of the Medium Tactile's nylon bottom housing will heavily influence the typing experience, creating a deeper and fuller sound when compared to the WS Morandi's POM bottom housing. Conversely, releasing a key will have a stronger influence from the top housing. Therefore, while the housing materials differ for the top and bottom of the switches, it is important to consider the impact they have on both the sound and feel of each keypress.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, we find some similarities and differences. Unfortunately, the exact actuation force for both switches is unavailable, so it is not possible to make a direct comparison in this aspect. However, we do know that the bottom out force for the Durock Medium Tactile is 65 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the WS Morandi has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is medium.
Considering weight as an important factor, those who prefer a lighter switch may find it more comfortable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. However, if a stronger push feel is desired to obtain a more substantial typing experience, opting for switches with heavier forces would be recommended. In terms of weight, it can be presumed that the Durock Medium Tactile, with its higher bottom out force, is the heavier option compared to the WS Morandi, with its slightly lower bottom out force.
Ultimately, while the actuation force remains unknown for both switches, their bottom out force suggests that the Durock Medium Tactile would provide a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the WS Morandi. However, it's important to note that without concrete actuation force measurements, a direct comparison in this aspect cannot be made, and it is possible that similar results could be achieved with both switches.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, it is clear that the Medium Tactile has a longer travel distance at 4 mm compared to the WS Morandi's 3.5 mm. The Medium Tactile's 4 mm travel distance is more traditional, providing a deeper experience when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the WS Morandi's 3.5 mm travel distance is slightly shorter, which appeals to gamers looking for faster response times. While the Medium Tactile offers a more substantial depth, the WS Morandi offers a quicker and more responsive feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and whether you prioritize a longer or shorter travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Medium 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 Medium Tactile for $4.25.
The Wuque Studio WS Morandi has an MSRP of $4.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Morandi for $3.90.
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 Medium Tactile switch is best known for its pronounced yet balanced tactility, accompanied by a jelly-like sound signature. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch offers a more muted sound profile. Described as low-pitched, subdued, and thocky, the WS Morandi switches produce a bass-heavy and mellow tone with a dampened, yet satisfying sound when pressed and released. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps. While the sound characteristics of the two switches differ, both can provide an enjoyable auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Medium Tactile switch is described as accented, stepped, mild, and polished. These qualities indicate a medium tactile switch that provides a prominent level of tactility without being overwhelming or scratchy. The switch features two stages of keystroke, allowing users to feel both pre-travel and post-travel sensations. Additionally, the switch offers a gentle and approachable typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the WS Morandi linear switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky. This suggests a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, with uniform typing sensations and exceptionally smooth key travel. The switch provides a silky sensation, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, catering to different preferences.
Taking into account all the available information, the Durock Medium Tactile switch stands out for its pronounced tactility and jelly-like sound signature. It offers a balanced and accented typing experience with reduced friction. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch excels in visual aesthetics and smoothness. Its UPE stem provides a unique dry and airy smoothness, while its unique design strikes a balance between form and function. Additionally, the Morandi switches offer a more muted sound profile, with qualities like low-pitched, subdued, and thocky. It is important to consider personal preferences, as the Medium Tactile switch provides a more tactile experience, whereas the WS Morandi switch offers a smoother and more visually appealing option. Ultimately, based on the information provided, both switches have their own distinct qualities that are suited for different typing preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a balanced tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, then the Durock Medium Tactile would be an excellent choice. It offers a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and provides an accented, stepped, mild, and polished typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch that combines innovation with visual aesthetics, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, these switches offer a unique dry, airy, and wispy smoothness, distinct from the creamy feel of factory-lubed switches. They produce a slightly muted sound profile and are described as being low-pitched, subdued, and thocky. Ultimately, the decision between the Durock Medium Tactile and Wuque Studio WS Morandi depends on your preference for tactility, sound profile, and visual aesthetics.
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