Durock T1 vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion
An in-depth look at the Durock T1 and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a multitude of options available, each offering its own unique typing experience. Two popular switches that stand out are the Durock T1, a tactile switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Onion, a linear switch. The T1 is best known for its super comfortable typing experience, with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. On the other hand, the WS Onion boasts a buttery smooth keystroke feel and a crisp, responsive touch, accompanied by a neutral sound profile. Both switches offer their own advantages and drawbacks, making the decision a matter of personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond 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
67g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
WS CL635 Gold Plated Stainless Spring
Housing materials
The Durock T1 and the Wuque Studio WS Onion both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making it an ideal choice for those looking to add visual appeal to their keyboard setup. The similar use of polycarbonate in the top housing ensures that users can expect a consistent sound experience and visual effect from both switches.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the T1 and the WS Onion utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon's softer plastic composition absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. As a result, users can expect a more muted typing experience with both switches, allowing for a quieter and more comfortable overall usage.
It is worth noting that, despite the similarities in housing materials, variations can arise from the division of these materials between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the T1 and WS Onion may share similar sound profiles and aesthetic qualities due to their polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings, slight differences may arise in the overall typing experience depending on the specific implementation of these materials in each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock T1 tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, it is important to note that the specific force values for actuation are unavailable for both switches. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Durock T1 has a slightly heavier force of 67 grams, which falls within the medium-heavy range. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, also considered medium-heavy.
Weight is a factor that can be taken into consideration when choosing a switch, as it can greatly impact typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter switch, the reduced weight allows for longer typing periods, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the contrary, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for switches with heavier forces.
Despite the differences in bottom out force between the T1 and the WS Onion switches, their actuation forces remain unknown. Therefore, it is difficult to draw a direct comparison between the two in terms of actuation. However, if the actuation forces were to be similar or equal, users can expect similar results in terms of triggering a keystroke. Ultimately, the decision between the Durock T1 tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch will depend on personal preference for either a slightly heavier or lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock T1 tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will feel the key travel a distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Both of these switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance, ensuring that users will achieve similar results when using either switch. The travel distance of both switches is equal, making them convenient options for those seeking a consistent typing experience.
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 Onion has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Onion for $5.53.
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 Durock T1 tactile switch is best described as having a low-pitched sound. This means that it produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Similarly, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch also has a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate sound and actuation force requirement. This makes it suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use the switch at home or at work. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be impacted by other factors, such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Durock T1 tactile switch offers a stepped and accented tactile experience. Stepped switches provide a mild tactile feedback, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Accented switches, on the other hand, offer a medium tactile feel that is not overwhelming but still provides a notable amount of tactility. Additionally, the T1 switch is polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In comparison, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch offers a buttery and polished feel. The buttery feel implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. In addition, the switch is also polished, ensuring a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Based on the available information, the Durock T1 tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The T1 has a low-pitched sound and a stepped and accented tactile feel, while the WS Onion has a neutral sound and a buttery linear feel. Both switches are polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience.
Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preferences. If you prefer a more tactile experience with a low-pitched sound, the Durock T1 would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, linear feel with a neutral sound profile, the Wuque Studio WS Onion switch would be a great option. Keep in mind that individual keyboard setups, including the keyboard board and keycaps, can also influence the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a tactile switch that offers a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on the window, the Durock T1 would be an excellent choice for you. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, it provides a medium-heavy feel that many find satisfying. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth keystroke feel and a crisp, responsive touch, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch would be more suitable. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, it also falls into the medium-heavy category and offers a neutral sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences and the typing experience you are looking for. Both switches have their unique qualities that make them a great option for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
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