SP-Star Duck vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Duck and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Duck and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both offer unique qualities for different preferences. The Duck switch provides a more subtle tactile typing experience with a gentle tactility and a clean, crispy sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch maintains smoothness with a snappy and perceptible tactile bump while featuring a neutral sound signature. The Duck switch is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Buttery', 'Polished', while the WS Light Tactile switch is categorized as 'Stepped', 'Neutral', 'Easy-to-press'. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. 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
58g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
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
Both the SP-Star Duck and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiff plastic that resonates well. The aesthetic benefits of using polycarbonate include its translucency, making it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. As a result, both keyboards will provide a similar sound experience when typing, with clear and resonant tones.
However, where the two keyboards differ is in the material used for the bottom housing. The Duck employs polycarbonate for its bottom housing, continuing the trend of sharp and clear sound profiles. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile features a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound profile compared to the stiffer polycarbonate. This contrast in bottom housing material creates a noticeable difference in typing experience between the two keyboards.
Overall, the top and bottom housing materials play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of a keyboard switch. While both the SP-Star Duck and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile offer the benefits of polycarbonate top housing, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart. The Duck provides a consistent sharp and clear sound due to its polycarbonate bottom housing, while the WS Light Tactile offers a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, the decision between the two keyboards will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Duck tactile switch to the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces differ between the two. The Duck switch has a bottom out force of 58 grams, while the WS Light Tactile switch has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. The actuation force of the Duck switch is not specified, whereas the WS Light Tactile switch has an actuation force of 45 grams. This indicates that the WS Light Tactile is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Duck switch. The lighter actuation force of the WS Light Tactile switch may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a lighter touch when typing, while the heavier bottom out force of the Duck switch may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference for typing feel and the desired level of force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Duck tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will get a similar tactile response and feedback. The travel distance of both switches allows for a comfortable typing experience without requiring excessive force to actuate. Overall, whether you choose the Duck or the WS Light Tactile, you can expect a consistent travel distance that will result in a satisfying typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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
In terms of sound, both the SP-Star Duck tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they both produce a moderate sound which is suitable for various uses, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and regardless of where you plan to use them. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is described as offering a mild and buttery typing experience, with a polished finish that provides smooth and refined keystrokes. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch is characterized by a stepped feel, providing a more subtle tactile feedback compared to switches with a more pronounced bump. Additionally, these switches are easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance and requiring minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable.
In conclusion, while both switches offer a neutral sound profile, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch provides a more gentle and buttery typing experience compared to the stepped and easy-to-press feel of the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch. Depending on your preferences, you can expect a clean and crispy sound with the Duck switch, or a snappy tactile bump and neutral sound signature with the WS Light Tactile switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the SP-Star Duck tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, consider the following guidelines: If you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience with a gentle tactility and a clean sound profile, the Duck switches are a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a snappy and perceptible tactile bump with a neutral sound signature, the WS Light Tactile switches would be more suitable. Additionally, if you prefer a mild and buttery typing feel with smooth and refined key travel, the Duck switches would be preferable. However, if you prefer a stepped tactile feel with easy-to-press keys that require minimal force, the WS Light Tactile switches would be the better option. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preference for tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing feel.
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