SP-Star Duck vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Duck and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the SP-Star Duck and the Wuque Studio WS Red. The Duck switches are perfect for those who prefer a more subtle and tactile typing experience. With a gentle tactility and a clean and crispy sound profile, these switches offer a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Red switches are known for their bouncy and responsive feel. With a 22mm double-stage spring, they provide a satisfying and substantial typing experience with a familiar sound signature. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
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 SP-Star Duck and the Wuque Studio WS Red differ in their choice of housing materials for both the top and bottom parts of the switch. The Duck utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for those planning to use RGB lighting. On the other hand, the WS Red opts for nylon housing materials, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While the top and bottom housing materials differ for each switch, they each offer their unique qualities. The bottom housing material has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down. Therefore, the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing will contribute to a sharper and crisper bottom-out sound, while the WS Red's nylon bottom housing will create a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, the top housing material influences the sound when the key is released. Hence, the polycarbonate top housing of the Duck will produce a higher-pitched and resonant sound upon key release, while the nylon top housing of the WS Red will create a slightly duller sound.
Despite the differences in housing materials, the Duck and WS Red share some similarities in terms of sound profiles. Both polycarbonate and nylon contribute to creating a full and rich sound, but with varying characteristics. The Duck's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper and crisper sound, while the WS Red's nylon housing elicits a deeper and rounder sound. Additionally, both switches offer aesthetic advantages related to their housing materials. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects, enhancing the overall visual experience. Meanwhile, the classic usage of nylon housing provides a timeless and durable look to the WS Red.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Duck tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, we encounter some differences. Starting with the actuation force, the exact grams required to trigger a keystroke are not disclosed for either switch. However, it is worth noting that lighter actuation forces are generally preferred for those who value prolonged typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. This aspect remains similar between the two switches since the exact numbers are unavailable.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which can be considered medium in terms of resistance. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. Therefore, for individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience that requires a stronger push, the WS Red switch would be the preferable option.
In summary, although both switches have undisclosed actuation forces, the SP-Star Duck and Wuque Studio WS Red switches differ in their bottom out forces. The Duck switch has a lighter bottom out force of 58 grams, while the WS Red switch has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. This distinction allows individuals to choose the switch that aligns with their preference for typing experiences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Duck tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it is clear that the Duck has a longer travel distance of 4.0mm compared to the WS Red, which has a travel distance of 3.8mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Duck being slightly longer. However, it is important to note that shorter travel distances have gained popularity in recent times, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. In this regard, the WS Red may be preferred. On the other hand, those who value a deeper keystroke and find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt may opt for the Duck switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for either a shorter or longer travel distance.
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 Red 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
In terms of sound, the Duck tactile switch is best described as having a clean and crispy sound profile. This indicates a neutral switch with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the sound of the WS Red linear switch. However, considering its classic material blend and the use of a double-stage spring, it is likely to retain a familiar sound signature. Therefore, while the specific sound characteristics are unknown, one can expect similar results in terms of sound between the two switches.
When it comes to feel, the Duck tactile switch offers a mild and gentle typing experience. It falls into the category of mild switches, providing a safe middle-ground zone in terms of its tactile feedback. Additionally, the switch is described as buttery, implying a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. This ensures a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. The polished finish of the Duck switch further enhances its feel, reducing friction and enabling smooth key travel. On the other hand, no specific information is available regarding the feel of the WS Red linear switch. However, considering its heavier actuation force, one can expect a touch of weight to each keystroke, delivering a satisfying and substantial typing feel.
Taking all the available information into account, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a more subtle and gentle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile. Its mild, buttery, and polished characteristics ensure a smooth and refined typing feel. Although the sound and feel of the WS Red linear switch are unknown, we can anticipate that it retains a familiar sound signature and provides a bouncy and responsive typing experience due to its 22mm double-stage spring and classic material blend. While there might be slight differences between the two switches, both should deliver satisfying results for different preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, to summarize the guidelines for choosing between the SP-Star Duck tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, the Duck switches would be a perfect choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a familiar sound signature and a heavier actuation force that adds weight to each keystroke, the WS Red switches would be ideal. Additionally, if you are looking for a switch with a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes, the Duck switches would be a suitable option. However, if you prioritize a smooth and polished typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel, the WS Red switches might be more appealing. Ultimately, consider your desired tactile feel, sound profile, and actuation force to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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