Durock Piano vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the Durock Piano and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Durock Piano and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow. The Durock Piano switch is highly regarded for its proprietary material blend, which results in a typing experience that is often described as gliding and smooth. Additionally, users appreciate the deep and creamy sound signature that accompanies each keystroke. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switch boasts a timeless fusion of classic materials and cutting-edge engineering. With a 22mm double-stage spring, these switches deliver a satisfying bounce, making typing a delight. Furthermore, the WS Yellow switch offers a familiar sound signature that enthusiasts adore, thanks to its carefully crafted material blend. These switches are also designed to be lightweight, providing effortless keystrokes for a smooth and fluid typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Mystery material
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Piano and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow have significant differences that contribute to their unique sound profiles. The Piano features a proprietary POM blend top and bottom housing, while the WS Yellow utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing.
In terms of the top housing, the POM blend of the Durock Piano is described as offering a uniquely satisfying and deep sound profile. While we do not know the exact details of this blend, it likely provides a distinct and memorable typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the WS Yellow is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. This contrast in sound profiles showcases the differences in top housing materials.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Piano and the WS Yellow feature the same materials. The proprietary POM blend bottom housing of the Piano, as well as the nylon bottom housing of the WS Yellow, contribute to a satisfying and deep sound profile. While the bottom housing may have a more subtle impact on the overall sound compared to the top housing, it still plays a significant role in creating a distinctive typing experience.
Overall, while the Piano and the WS Yellow have different housing materials, each housing type brings its own unique characteristics to the switches. The POM blend of the Piano's top and bottom housing creates a satisfying and deep sound profile, while the nylon housing of the WS Yellow contributes to a deeper and fuller sound. These differences ensure that users will experience distinct typing sensations with each keyboard. However, if the top and bottom housing materials are the same, such as in the case of the WS Yellow, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Piano linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, there are several key differences to consider. Firstly, both switches have unavailable gram measurements for their actuation forces, so it is difficult to determine a direct comparison in this aspect. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Durock Piano switch has a heavier weight of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the WS Yellow switch has a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, placing it in the medium-light category.
The weight of a switch is a crucial factor to consider, as it can greatly impact one's typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force may opt for the WS Yellow switch, as it allows for longer typing periods without causing excessive fatigue. This makes it an ideal choice for individuals using their keyboards for extended periods at work or during intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Durock Piano switch offers a stronger push feel due to its heavier bottom out force. This can provide a more substantial typing experience for individuals who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback.
In terms of similarities, both switches have unavailable gram measurements for their actuation forces, making it challenging to determine any significant differences in this aspect. However, it is worth noting that regardless of the exact actuation force, both switches can provide similar results in terms of trigger sensitivity and responsiveness.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Piano linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch will depend on individual preferences. Those seeking a lighter typing experience for longer durations may prefer the WS Yellow switch, while individuals looking for a more robust and substantial feel may gravitate towards the Durock Piano switch. Regardless of the chosen switch, both options offer distinct advantages and can enhance one's typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Piano linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4.0 mm being the most common and 3.0 mm being the shallowest. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times. Therefore, if you prioritize a more responsive keyboard, the WS Yellow switch with its slightly shorter travel distance might be the better option for you. However, for those who prefer a more substantial and deeper feel when pressing down on a key, the Durock Piano switch with its 4 mm travel distance provides a more satisfying experience. Ultimately, your preference for travel distance will depend on whether you value speed and responsiveness or a more tactile response.
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 Yellow comes in at $3.50 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 creamy sound signature, characterized by a lower frequency range reminiscent of bass tones. This creates a rich and satisfying sound during key presses. On the other hand, there is no specific information available regarding the sound of the WS Yellow linear switch. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, both switches have the potential to deliver pleasing sound profiles, but the exact characteristics of the WS Yellow switch remain unknown.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Piano switch is described as providing a frictionless and silky typing experience. With a smooth and effortless travel, it minimizes any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. This enhances the overall smoothness of the typing feel. In contrast, the WS Yellow switch offers a creamy and mild typing experience. It provides a buttery sensation, allowing your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys with ease. The mild characteristics of this switch make it approachable for most users, as it falls within a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, the WS Yellow switch is also described as being polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer qualities that contribute to a satisfying typing feel, with the Durock Piano focusing on frictionless and silky qualities, while the WS Yellow emphasizes creaminess, mildness, and a polished finish.
In conclusion, the Durock Piano linear switch is well-known for its proprietary material blend, delivering a pleasant linear typing experience with a gliding push feel and a deep, creamy sound signature. On the other hand, the WS Yellow linear switch combines classic materials with cutting-edge engineering, boasting a delightful typing experience with a satisfying bounce and familiar sound signature. While the specifics of the WS Yellow switch's sound characteristics remain unknown, it is reasonable to expect similar pleasant sound results based on its material blend. Overall, both switches offer desirable qualities in terms of sound and feel, allowing users to enjoy a smooth and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Piano linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. The Durock Piano offers a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams and is well-known for its proprietary material blend, providing a pleasant typing experience with a gliding push feel and a deep, creamy sound signature. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow has a medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams and features a 22mm double-stage spring for a delightful typing experience with a satisfying bounce. The WS Yellow also offers a familiar sound signature and effortless keystrokes due to its lightweight design.
When it comes to sound, the Durock Piano is described as bassy, offering a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. Unfortunately, information about the sound characteristics of the WS Yellow is not provided.
In terms of feel, the Durock Piano is described as frictionless and silky, providing an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance. The WS Yellow, on the other hand, is described as creamy, mild, and polished. It offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, a gentle typing experience suitable for most users, and a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Consider factors such as your preference for bottom out force, the sound profile you desire, and the specific feel you are looking for in a switch. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force and prioritize a creamy sound and a frictionless, silky feel, the Durock Piano may be the ideal choice for you. However, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, a bounce during typing, and a creamy, mild, or polished feel, the WS Yellow could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, it is essential to try out both switches if possible or consider what characteristics are most important to you in order to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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