SP-Star Duck vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Duck and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, you may be torn between the SP-Star Duck and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi. The Duck switches are known for their subtle tactile experience, providing a gentle tactility while typing. The sound profile is clean and crispy, making them a popular choice for those seeking a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switches offer a unique blend of innovation and visual aesthetics. These ultra-smooth linear switches feature a light-diffusing column that enhances the RGB visuals with a mesmerizing effect. The UPE stem provides a distinct dry and airy smoothness, different from the creamy feel of factory-lubed switches. With a medium weight and slightly shortened total travel, the WS Morandi switches strike a balance between form and function. The typing experience is accompanied by a slightly more muted sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Duck and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Duck utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances clarity and resonance. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the effective use of RGB lighting. In contrast, the WS Morandi incorporates POM, resulting in a deeper and relatively more muted sound profile. The unique sound produced by POM housings is considered pleasing, but it lacks the sharpness and clarity of polycarbonate.
When comparing the top and bottom housings of a switch, their respective materials will significantly impact different aspects of the switch's performance. The bottom housing, influenced by the Duck's polycarbonate or the WS Morandi's POM, will affect the sound and feeling when a key is pressed down. The qualities of the bottom housing are particularly notable in the bottom-out sound and the tactile feedback upon keypress. Conversely, the top housing, whether polycarbonate or POM, will have a more pronounced effect on the sound produced when a key is released. Therefore, the choice of housing material can subtly shape the overall auditory experience of using the switch.
While the Duck and the WS Morandi showcase their individual characteristics through the diverse housing materials for both the top and bottom, there are similarities in their intent. Both switches aim to create an enjoyable sound profile, albeit with different tonal qualities. The Duck's polycarbonate and the WS Morandi's POM share the objective of enhancing the auditory experience during typing. However, the Duck prioritizes sharpness, clarity, and resonance with its stiffer polycarbonate, while the WS Morandi seeks a deeper and more muted sound. Regardless of their differences, these housing materials emphasize the importance of sound in the design and construction of premium mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Duck tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, we find that both switches have medium bottom out forces. The Duck has a bottom out force of 58 grams, while the WS Morandi has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. However, the actuation forces for both switches are not provided, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison. It is worth noting that weight can play a significant role in the typing experience. Some users prefer lighter switches for more extended typing sessions or extended gaming sessions, as it allows for less finger fatigue. Others prefer switches with heavier forces, as they provide a more substantial typing experience. For those looking for a lighter switch, the unavailable actuation force of the Duck and the slightly lighter bottom out force of 58 grams could be a suitable choice. Alternatively, those seeking a slightly heavier switch may opt for the WS Morandi, which has an actuation force of unavailable grams and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. Overall, the differences in actuation force and bottom out force between these switches are relatively small, resulting in fairly similar results for most users.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is 4.0 mm, while the travel distance of the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch is 3.5 mm. This means that the Duck has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the WS Morandi. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Duck is considered more traditional, while the 3.5mm travel distance of the WS Morandi falls on the shallower side. However, it is worth noting that shorter travel distances have become more popular, especially among gamers who prefer faster response times. So, if you prioritize responsiveness, the WS Morandi with its shorter travel distance may be a better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with more depth and a less abrupt feel, the Duck's longer travel distance might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, it depends on your personal preference and typing style.
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 Morandi has an MSRP of $4.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Morandi for $3.90.
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 SP-Star Duck tactile switch is described as having a clean and crispy sound profile. This means that the sound produced when typing on these switches is neutral, not too high-pitched or low-pitched. It provides a satisfying sound without being too loud or obtrusive. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch is described as having a slightly more muted sound profile. It is not completely silent, but it offers a more subdued sound signature compared to most switches. This means that the sound produced when typing on the WS Morandi switches is dampened and less pronounced.
In terms of feel, both switches are described as having a buttery typing experience. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that provides a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The Duck switch is further described as having a mild and polished feel. The mild characteristic means that it offers a gentle typing experience that is approachable for most users. The polished characteristic indicates that the switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek and precise typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switch is described as having a creamy and silky feel. This means that it offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, similar to gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. The silky characteristic enhances the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
Taking all of the available information into account, both the SP-Star Duck tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch provide a satisfying typing experience with different qualities. The Duck switch offers a subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, while the WS Morandi switch offers a smooth linear typing experience with a slightly muted sound profile. If you are looking for a more gentle and nuanced typing experience, the Duck switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience with enhanced RGB visuals, the WS Morandi switch would be a great option. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preferences and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is the perfect choice. These switches have a medium bottom out force of 58 grams, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced users at home or at work. The Duck switches are described as having a mild and buttery feel, providing a gentle and approachable typing experience.
On the other hand, if you value innovation and visual aesthetics, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch is ideal. These switches feature a unique light diffusing design that enhances RGB visuals with a mesmerizing effect. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, the WS Morandi strikes a perfect balance between form and function. The Morandi switches are known for their slightly more muted sound profile, offering a low-pitched, subdued, and thocky typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Duck and WS Morandi switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a gentle tactile experience with a clean sound profile, go for the Duck switches. If you're more interested in an innovative design with enhanced visual aesthetics, along with a slightly more muted sound profile and smooth typing feel, the WS Morandi switches are the way to go. Consider your typing preferences and desired aesthetics to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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