Durock T1 vs. Wuque Studio WS Jade
An in-depth look at the Durock T1 and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Durock T1, a tactile switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Jade, a linear switch. The T1 is favored for its comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a soothing rain-like sound when pressed. On the other hand, the WS Jade stands out for its use of a metallic insert for a bright and resonant sound profile, along with a light diffuser for an enchanting RGB display. Each switch offers a unique typing experience, with the T1 being categorized as 'Stepped', 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Accented', 'Polished', and the WS Jade as 'Clacky', 'Marbly', 'Resonant', 'Silky', 'Creamy'. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
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 Durock T1 and the Wuque Studio WS Jade both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profiles. While the T1 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper, higher-pitched sound, the WS Jade opts for a POM top housing for a deeper and more muted sound. Despite their differences, both materials are chosen for their ability to create distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The polycarbonate top housing of the T1 allows for clearer and more resonant sound, particularly when coupled with RGB lighting, while the POM top housing of the WS Jade offers a unique and pleasing sound that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum.
In terms of the bottom housing, the T1 features a nylon material that enhances the switch's sound profile by creating a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, the WS Jade also utilizes POM for its bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and muted sound profile. Both nylon and POM are known for their sound-absorbing properties, with nylon being softer and creating a duller sound, while POM leans towards a rounder sound profile. Despite these differences, both bottom housings contribute to the overall typing experience by providing a unique sound profile that resonates with users who prefer a deeper and more muted sound.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches, whether it be polycarbonate and nylon in the T1 or POM in the WS Jade, plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience offered by each switch. The split between top and bottom housings allows for a balance of qualities that come into play when typing on the switches. While the T1 and WS Jade may differ in their choice of materials, they both aim to provide users with a satisfying typing experience that caters to different sound preferences. Ultimately, the housing materials contribute to the overall appeal and uniqueness of each switch, offering users a variety of options to choose from based on their individual preferences.
Weight
The Durock T1 tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The T1 has no specified actuation force and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy. In contrast, the WS Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it on the medium side. The T1 is heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the WS Jade, which could provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the WS Jade may be preferred by those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock T1 tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The T1 offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a more traditional feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the WS Jade offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. Both switches provide a good balance between travel distance and responsiveness, making them suitable choices for keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
The Wuque Studio WS Jade comes in at $4.30 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 T1 tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch presents a clacky, marbly, and resonant sound profile, creating a sharp, bright, and crisp sound experience that is immersive and percussive. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the T1 focusing on a comfortable and calming rain-like sound, while the WS Jade delivers a bright metallic resonance that stands out.
When it comes to feel, the Durock T1 tactile switch offers a stepped and accented typing experience, providing a mild tactile bump and a medium amount of tactility that is polished for smooth key travel. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch offers a silky and creamy typing feel, emphasizing an exceptionally smooth and buttery experience that minimizes resistance and enhances overall smoothness. Both switches offer distinct tactile feedback, with the T1 providing a comfortable and refined typing experience, and the WS Jade delivering a uniquely creamy and smooth sensation that is rock-solid at the bottom-out.
Overall, despite their differences in sound and feel, both the Durock T1 tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch offer unique and appealing qualities to mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prefer the mellow and neutral sound profile of the T1 or the bright and resonant sound of the WS Jade, both switches provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience that caters to individual preferences. Additionally, the stepped and accented feel of the T1 or the silky and creamy sensation of the WS Jade offer distinct tactile feedback that enhances the overall typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock T1 tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, consider the following factors. Choose the T1 if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump, and a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. On the other hand, opt for the WS Jade if you prefer a medium bottom out force, a unique creamy and smooth typing experience, and a bright, metallic, and resonant sound profile. The T1 offers a stepped, accented, and polished feel, while the WS Jade provides a silky and creamy typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force. Remember to consider these aspects to select the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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