Durock Piano vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Durock Piano and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Piano linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch are two popular options to consider. The Durock Piano is praised for its proprietary material blend, offering a smooth and pleasant typing experience with a deep, creamy sound signature. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch is known for its smoothness, perceptible tactile bump, and neutral sound signature. While the Piano provides a 'bassy', 'frictionless', and 'silky' typing experience, the WS Light Tactile offers a 'stepped', 'neutral', and 'easy-to-press' feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Mystery material
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Piano and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile, it is evident that they both have proprietary blends that contribute to a unique sound profile. The POM blend used in the Piano's top and bottom housing offers a satisfying and deep sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing in the WS Light Tactile creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Both materials have their own distinct qualities that impact the overall typing experience, with POM providing a more resonant sound and polycarbonate offering a more defined sound profile.
However, where the Piano and WS Light Tactile differ is in the bottom housing material. The Piano continues to use its proprietary POM blend for the bottom housing, which maintains the deep and satisfying sound profile, while the WS Light Tactile utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. The nylon material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. This difference in bottom housing material between the two switches may lead to variations in the typing experience, with the WS Light Tactile potentially offering a quieter and duller sound compared to the Piano.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Piano and Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile will come down to personal preference in sound and typing feel. While both switches feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles, the POM blend in the Piano offers a deep and satisfying sound, while the polycarbonate and nylon in the WS Light Tactile provide a sharper and crisper sound with a fuller sound profile. Whether one prefers a more resonant typing experience or a clearer sound with RGB lighting compatibility, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that will enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Piano linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that the Piano switch has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams compared to the WS Light Tactile's lighter 50 grams. However, the actuation force of the WS Light Tactile is lighter at 45 grams, whereas the Piano switch does not have a specified actuation force. In terms of weight preference, those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the WS Light Tactile for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those desiring a more pronounced typing experience may lean towards the Piano switch. Both switches offer different experiences due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, providing users with options based on their individual preferences.
Travel distance
The Durock Piano linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in that aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will experience a similar amount of travel distance. This can result in a consistent typing or gaming experience across both switches, as the tactile feedback will be the same. Overall, the travel distance of both the Piano and WS Light Tactile switches offers a responsive and satisfying typing experience for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
The Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile 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 Piano linear switch offers a deep and rich bassy sound profile, while the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch provides a more neutral and moderate sound experience. Both switches have their unique characteristics, with the Piano offering a deeper tone and the WS Light Tactile providing a more generic sound suitable for various environments. The final sound output will also depend on factors such as the keyboard layout, case material, and keycap choice.
In terms of feel, the Durock Piano linear switch is known for its frictionless and silky smooth typing experience, ensuring minimal resistance and effortless key presses. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch offers a stepped tactile feedback with an easy-to-press actuation force, making typing comfortable and reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. While the Piano emphasizes a smooth and fluid typing experience, the WS Light Tactile focuses on providing a gentle tactile feedback throughout the keystroke.
In conclusion, both the Durock Piano linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch offer distinct qualities in sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles. If you prefer a deeper and bassy sound profile with a smooth typing experience, the Piano switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound signature with a stepped tactile feedback and easy-to-press actuation force, the WS Light Tactile switch would be a suitable option. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Piano linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, you should consider your preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and actuation force. If you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience with a deep and rich sound signature, then the Durock Piano may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a snappy tactile bump with a neutral sound signature and easy-to-press keys, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch might better suit your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and requirements.
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