Dareu Snow vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Dareu Snow and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at two popular mechanical keyboard switches - the Dareu Snow and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile - one can immediately see the distinct differences between the two. The Snow switch is a linear option that offers a smooth typing experience with a deep sound profile thanks to its innovative use of POK material in both the top housing and stem. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch stands out for its intense tactile feedback with a 70g bump and "thocky" sound produced by nylon housings. While the Snow switch is described as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy', the WS Heavy Tactile switch is labeled as 'Accented', 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Invigorating', 'Resonant', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy'. Both switches have their unique benefits and appeal, catering to different typing preferences. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Snow and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile, we can see that both switches use nylon for their bottom housing. This means that when typing on these switches, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. However, the Snow's top housing is made of POK material, known for its smoothness and durability, contributing to a smooth, clacky, and durable typing experience. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile's top housing is also made of nylon, which can create a duller and rounder sound when compared to the Snow's POK top housing.
While both switches share a common nylon bottom housing material, the differences in their top housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience. The POK top housing of the Dareu Snow offers a smoother and more durable quality to its switches, providing a unique feel and sound profile that may appeal to users looking for a premium typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon top housing can create a sound that is deeper and fuller, but also potentially less smooth and clacky compared to the Snow's POK top housing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and durability.
The split between the top and bottom housing materials in these switches means that the qualities of each material will affect different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing material, whether nylon for the Snow or WS Heavy Tactile, will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the keys. Meanwhile, the top housing material, with POK for the Snow and nylon for the WS Heavy Tactile, will influence the sound when releasing a key. This distinction in housing materials highlights how the design and construction of switches can greatly influence the overall typing sensation, allowing users to choose a switch that best suits their preferences for sound, feel, and durability.
Weight
The Dareu Snow linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch have contrasting actuation and bottom out forces. The Snow has a slightly lighter actuation force at 50 grams compared to the WS Heavy Tactile's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Snow requires 60 grams while the WS Heavy Tactile needs 70 grams, making the WS Heavy Tactile the heavier option. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Snow, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel may lean towards the WS Heavy Tactile. Both switches offer a medium actuation force, so users can expect similar results in terms of responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Dareu Snow linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch both offer relatively short travel distances compared to more traditional options. The Snow has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, slightly longer than the WS Heavy Tactile's 3.2 mm. While the difference is minimal, it may be noticeable depending on personal preferences. Gamers seeking faster response times may lean towards the Snow with the slightly shorter travel distance, while users who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the WS Heavy Tactile. Overall, both switches provide a relatively short travel distance that can cater to a variety of typing preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
The Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile 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 Dareu Snow linear switch offers a deep and satisfying "thocky" sound due to its innovative use of POK material for the top housing and stem, providing a unique typing experience with a low-pitched tone. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch delivers a sharp and clacky sound with a higher-pitched, resonant profile, creating a more percussive auditory experience. Depending on personal preference, the Snow switch may be preferred for its deeper sound, while the WS Heavy Tactile switch may appeal to those who enjoy a sharper and crisper typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Snow switch is described as bouncy, offering a lively and spring-like feedback sensation, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch is characterized as accented, providing a medium level of tactility that is invigorating and sharp with a snappy and responsive feel. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the Snow switch emphasizing bounce and liveliness, and the WS Heavy Tactile switch focusing on a more pronounced and reactive tactile bump. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for feedback intensity and actuation force.
In conclusion, the Dareu Snow linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch offer distinctive sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Snow switch provides a deep and satisfying thocky sound with a bouncy feel, while the WS Heavy Tactile switch delivers a sharp and clacky sound paired with an accented, invigorating feel. Whether you prefer a low-pitched tone with bounce or a high-pitched, resonant sound with pronounced tactility, both switches offer immersive typing experiences that can enhance your keyboard setup. By choosing either switch, you can expect a unique and engaging typing experience tailored to your personal preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Snow linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium bottom out force with a smooth linear feel and a deeper sound signature, the Snow switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium-heavy tactile switch with a 70g bump, immersive resistance, and a captivating "thocky" sound, the WS Heavy Tactile switch is the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a linear or tactile typing experience, as well as the specific sound and feel characteristics that best suit your typing preferences.