Durock Sea Glass vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl
An in-depth look at the Durock Sea Glass and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two standout options are the Durock Sea Glass and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl, both linear switches celebrated for their unique characteristics. The Durock Sea Glass switches offer a charming aesthetic with five pastel color options and a typing experience that is both airy and smooth, thanks to their proprietary material blend. Despite a 62g bottom-out force, they provide a weightless feel that enhances the sense of effortless typing. In contrast, the WS Pearl switches utilize an innovative ball-bearing design to reduce friction, resulting in an exceptionally smooth keystroke that users often describe as surreal. With a medium-high pitched sound profile, these switches prioritize a refined auditory experience. Both options cater to different preferences: the Sea Glass for those who enjoy a lighter, feathery touch with a distinct sound signature, and the WS Pearl for those seeking ultra-smooth keystrokes with a unique design. 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
45g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
P3+
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
16mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Durock Sea Glass and Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches use distinct material blends in their housing structures, which significantly influences their sound profiles and overall typing experience. The Sea Glass features a combination of polymer nylon and ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) for its top housing. This blend is noted for producing a brighter and pleasing sound profile, which is not overly sharp. In contrast, the WS Pearl utilizes classic nylon for its top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. The inherent softness of nylon contributes to better sound absorption, creating a duller, rounder auditory experience compared to the brightness associated with the Sea Glass.
When examining the bottom housings, both the Sea Glass and WS Pearl continue to showcase their unique material characteristics. The Sea Glass's bottom housing is also made from the polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend, maintaining the same sound profile that complements the top housing. Conversely, the WS Pearl uses nylon for its bottom housing, which similarly generates that deeper and fuller sound profile synonymous with the nylon material. Thus, while both switches incorporate nylon in their compositions, the addition of UHMWPE in the Sea Glass creates distinct tonal qualities that set it apart from the more traditional feel of the WS Pearl.
Considering the overall integration of materials in each switch, users can expect varied typing experiences based on the respective contributions of the top and bottom housings. While the Sea Glass offers a brighter top sound with a matching bottom housing that reinforces its unique sound profile, the WS Pearl provides a consistent depth across both top and bottom housing that is characteristic of its nylon makeup. In terms of achieving similar results, players familiar with the bottom-out feel of both types may find resonance in sound and feel with the Sea Glass exhibiting a sharper edge while the WS Pearl provides a nuanced roundness, creating a nuanced contrast that caters to different preferences in typing feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Sea Glass linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, a notable difference emerges in their actuation forces. The Sea Glass requires an actuation force of 45 grams, while the WS Pearl has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams. This makes the WS Pearl more suitable for users who prefer a less demanding key press, ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. In terms of bottom out force, the Sea Glass features a force of 62 grams, slightly heavier than the WS Pearl's 58 grams. Consequently, while both switches can be categorized as medium in terms of bottom out force, the Sea Glass provides a more substantial feel while typing. In summary, for those who favor a lighter touch, the WS Pearl is a better option, whereas those seeking a more robust typing experience may gravitate toward the Sea Glass.
Travel distance
The Durock Sea Glass linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch present different travel distances that cater to varying user preferences. The Sea Glass has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it the longer option, which may appeal to users who appreciate a more pronounced feedback and depth during key presses. In contrast, the WS Pearl features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter and may be favored by gamers or users seeking quicker response times for typing or gaming activities. While both switches are designed for smooth actuation, the difference in travel distance suggests that the Sea Glass may offer a more robust feel, while the WS Pearl provides a snappier experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for switch responsiveness versus depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
The Wuque Studio WS Pearl comes in at $6.00 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
In terms of sound, the Durock Sea Glass switch produces a uniquely hollow sound signature that adds an interesting auditory layer to its typing experience. The sound can be characterized as having a dry and wispier quality, which some users may find soothing during extended sessions. The WS Pearl, on the other hand, is noted for its medium-high pitched sound signature, providing a more pronounced auditory feedback when typing. While both switches will exhibit different sound characteristics, the ultimate experience can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps, so it’s essential to consider those elements for a complete sound profile.
When focusing on the feel, the Sea Glass switches deliver a truly frictionless typing experience, allowing for smooth and effortless keystrokes. This is complemented by descriptors like mild, feathery, and easy-to-press, all of which emphasize minimal resistance and reduced finger fatigue, making them particularly friendly for long typing sessions. The WS Pearl switch also aims for a smooth feel, utilizing ball-bearings to minimize friction. However, specific details about the tactile experience of the WS Pearl are unknown. Therefore, while both switches excel at providing a smooth feel, the Sea Glass stands out for its overall combination of lightness and comfort.
In conclusion, both the Durock Sea Glass and Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switches have unique qualities that contribute to their respective typing experiences. The Sea Glass is recognized for its airy sound and frictionless feel, making it exceptional for long periods of use. Meanwhile, the WS Pearl focuses on achieving a smooth keystroke with its ball-bearing mechanism, which may further enhance the experience depending on personal preference. Although their auditory and tactile traits differ, both options provide a high level of comfort and enjoyment for newcomers venturing into the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Durock Sea Glass and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switches ultimately depends on your specific preferences and typing style. If you’re drawn to a unique aesthetic and enjoy a typing experience that feels airy and somewhat dry, the Sea Glass switches could be the perfect fit for you. Their 62g bottom-out force ensures a weighty yet frictionless feel, making them ideal for prolonged typing sessions without causing fatigue. Moreover, if you appreciate a slightly hollower sound profile that adds character to your typing, these switches would complement your setup nicely. On the other hand, if you're looking for an incredibly smooth keystroke with a medium to high-pitched sound signature, the WS Pearl switches are where you should lean. Their innovative use of ball-bearings reduces friction, making each keystroke feel like a breeze, perfect for those who spend long hours on the keyboard, whether for gaming or work. Additionally, with their slightly lighter actuation force at 58 grams, they may feel more delicate in comparison, catering to those who prefer a softer touch. Ultimately, both switches offer appealing characteristics, and your choice should align with whether you prioritize a unique tactile experience or an ultra-smooth and whisper-light typing sensation.
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