Durock Medium Tactile vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options available. Two popular choices to consider are the Durock Medium Tactile, a tactile switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow, a linear switch. The Medium Tactile is best known for its pronounced yet balanced tactility, giving users a satisfying feedback with each keystroke. Additionally, this switch has a unique jelly-like sound signature that adds a touch of personality to your typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Yellow switches boast a timeless fusion of classic materials and cutting-edge engineering. With a double-stage spring and a lightweight design, they provide a delightful bounce and effortless keystrokes. These switches also offer a familiar sound signature that many enthusiasts have grown to love. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Durock Medium Tactile Tactile

Wuque Studio WS Yellow Linear

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

$3.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Durock Medium Tactile and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches differ in terms of the materials used. The Medium Tactile features a polycarbonate top housing, while the WS Yellow utilizes a nylon top housing. This difference in materials results in contrasting sound profiles. The polycarbonate used in the Medium Tactile switch creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. In comparison, the nylon top housing of the WS Yellow switch produces a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its ability to absorb more sound due to its softer plastic composition.

Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches incorporate nylon, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. As a relatively softer plastic, nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches. Consequently, the sound profile of the bottom housing remains similar for both the Durock Medium Tactile and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches.

It is important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch each contribute differently to the overall typing experience. The qualities brought about by the bottom housing affect the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when the key is released. Therefore, despite the differences in housing materials between the Durock Medium Tactile and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches, the resulting sound profiles may vary in certain aspects, such as sharpness, pitch, depth, and roundness.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches, it is important to note that the exact values for the forces are unavailable. However, we can still analyze their relative weights. The Durock Medium Tactile switch has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, while the WS Yellow switch has a slightly lighter medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams. This means that the Durock switch requires slightly more force to fully press down compared to the WS Yellow switch.

In terms of actuation force, which measures the force required to trigger a keystroke, information about both switches is unavailable. However, we can make an educated assumption that since the Durock Medium Tactile switch has a heavier bottom out force, its actuation force might also be on the heavier side. Conversely, the WS Yellow switch with its lighter bottom out force may have a lighter actuation force as well.

Considering the weight aspect, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods might lean towards the WS Yellow switch. This lighter switch would enable them to type comfortably without straining their fingers over time, making it suitable for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who desire a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience might opt for the Durock Medium Tactile switch. While both switches provide different weight preferences, the exact actuation forces are unknown, making it difficult to compare those specific aspects. However, based on the bottom out forces alone, the Durock Medium Tactile switch can be considered heavier while the WS Yellow switch is lighter.

Travel distance

The Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both of these switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the WS Yellow with its 3.8 mm travel distance would be a good choice. However, if you prefer a more substantial feel and deeper key presses, the Durock Medium Tactile with its slightly longer 4 mm travel distance would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Medium Tactile switch from Durock is best described as having a jelly-like sound signature. However, the specific nuances of the sound are not provided in the information given. On the other hand, the WS Yellow linear switch from Wuque Studio is described as offering a familiar sound signature that enthusiasts have come to adore, thanks to its material blend. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps used. While the exact sound characteristics of both switches are not explicitly mentioned, it can be assumed that the Medium Tactile switch will provide a unique jelly-like sound, while the WS Yellow switch will offer a more familiar and enjoyable sound.

In terms of feel, the Medium Tactile switch is best described as an accented, stepped, mild, and polished switch. It provides a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, giving it a medium tactile feel. The stepped nature of the switch means that there is a noticeable pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation, enhancing the typing experience. Additionally, the mild characteristic of the switch ensures a gentle typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users. Lastly, the polished finish of the switch contributes to a smooth and refined feel, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Similarly, the WS Yellow linear switch from Wuque Studio is also described as having a mild and polished feel. The mild characteristic ensures a gentle typing experience that is approachable for most users, while the polished finish provides a sleek and refined sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Furthermore, the WS Yellow switch is also labeled as creamy, indicating a smooth and buttery typing experience. This could be due to either factory lubrication or specific materials used in the switch. Overall, the WS Yellow switch offers a silky sensation with effortless keystrokes.

Based on the available information, the Medium Tactile and WS Yellow switches have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Medium Tactile has a jelly-like sound signature and a pronounced yet balanced tactility, providing a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Yellow switch has a familiar sound signature and offers a mild, polished, and creamy feel, ensuring a smooth and fluid typing experience. While the Medium Tactile may provide a more distinct and pronounced tactile feel, users can expect a similar level of satisfaction and enjoyment from the WS Yellow switch. Ultimately, the best choice between the two switches would depend on the user's preference for sound and feel.

Conclusion

To sum up, when considering the choice between the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences for typing experience. The Medium Tactile offers a pronounced yet balanced tactility, and its jelly-like sound signature adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Yellow provides a delightful bounce and a familiar sound signature that enthusiasts adore, thanks to its material blend.

In terms of sound, the Medium Tactile has a description that is not provided, while the WS Yellow is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience.

When it comes to feel, the Medium Tactile is accented and stepped, providing a medium tactile experience that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, it is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the WS Yellow is described as creamy, mild, and polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and effortless keystrokes.

Overall, if you prefer a switch with a balanced tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Medium Tactile might be the right choice for you. However, if you prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience with a familiar sound signature, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow would be a suitable option. Consider your personal preferences and characteristics that appeal to you the most when making your decision.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Medium Tactile Tactile

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn more

Wuque Studio WS Yellow Linear

$3.50 per 10

Learn more