Durock T1 vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the Durock T1 and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can greatly influence your typing experience, and two popular options that reflect diverse preferences are the Durock T1 and the Wuque Studio WS POM+. The Durock T1 is a tactile switch renowned for its comfort, featuring a medium bump that provides satisfying feedback with each keystroke. Its unique auditory signature evokes the calming sound of rain against a window, offering a delightful acoustic experience while typing. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ is a linear switch celebrated for its smoothness and deep, resounding "thock" sound, delivering an enjoyable, uninterrupted flow that many users appreciate for gaming and fast-paced typing tasks. While the T1 caters to those who favor tactile feedback and a soft sound, the WS POM+ attracts users seeking a seamless and quieter experience. 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
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
POM
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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock T1 and the Wuque Studio WS POM+, notable differences can be observed in their top housing choices. The T1 features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sound profile that is sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper. This is largely due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which facilitates clearer resonance. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an excellent choice for RGB lighting applications, enhancing visual aesthetics in illuminated setups. In contrast, the WS POM+ employs a POM top housing that delivers a deeper, more muted sound profile. While both materials serve to house switches, the acoustic characteristics imparted by polycarbonate and POM lead to distinct auditory experiences during use.
The bottom housing materials of the T1 and WS POM+ further differentiate their sound profiles. The T1 utilizes a nylon bottom housing, recognized for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer properties, which absorb sound waves more effectively. This results in a rounder, more subdued sound when bottoming out. Conversely, the WS POM+ features a POM bottom housing, which similarly creates a pleasing and uniquely muted sound profile. Though both switches utilize different bottom housing materials, they share the attribute of providing a deeper sound experience, suggesting that users might appreciate a satisfying auditory feedback regardless of their choice.
In summary, while the Durock T1 and Wuque Studio WS POM+ offer contrasting materials in their top housings, with polycarbonate rendering a crisper sound and POM creating a deeper tone, their bottom housings reflect a more harmonious design philosophy. Both nylon and POM contribute to a fuller and more muted sound profile, ensuring that users enjoy satisfying acoustics whether they are typing or gaming. Thus, although the switches utilize distinct materials, they can yield similar performance characteristics, allowing enthusiasts to find pleasure in the distinctively crafted sound experiences that each model provides.
Weight
When comparing the Durock T1 tactile switch with the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, a clear distinction in their actuation and bottom out forces is evident. The Durock T1 lacks a specified actuation force, but it has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which categorizes it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the WS POM+ exhibits a more defined actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, placing it in the medium-light range. This means that the WS POM+ requires less force to trigger a keystroke and bottoms out with less resistance compared to the T1. Consequently, the WS POM+ is the lighter switch, making it suitable for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, ideal for extended work or gaming sessions. Meanwhile, the heavier Durock T1 may appeal to users seeking a more tactile and substantial feedback when typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Durock T1 tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The T1 features a travel distance of 4 mm, which is more traditional and provides a deeper feel when pressed. In contrast, the WS POM+ has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Wuque Studio switch more responsive, catering to gamers and those who prefer quicker key presses for enhanced performance. However, for users who appreciate the pronounced feedback and depth that comes with a longer travel distance, the Durock T1 would be the preferable choice. Ultimately, the T1 is the longer switch, while the WS POM+ is the shorter alternative, each appealing to different preferences in the 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 POM+ comes in at $3.90 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 produces a soft, low-pitched sound reminiscent of raindrops falling against a window, which many find calming and pleasant. This neutral tone strikes a balance that makes it suitable for diverse environments, whether at home or in an office, allowing for comfortable use without being overly jarring. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switch delivers a deeper "thock" sound that many enthusiasts deeply appreciate for its satisfying, resonant quality. This sound adds a layer of auditory feedback that can enhance the typing experience. The sound output of both switches can also be influenced by the keycaps and the keyboard build, suggesting that users of either switch can achieve a pleasant auditory environment with the right setup.
Regarding feel, the T1 is distinguished by its stepped tactile profile, allowing typists to experience a mild, yet pronounced tactile bump during the keypress, which is neither overly aggressive nor too subtle. The accented nature of the switch adds further to its tactile comfort, providing a satisfying typing experience without the scratchiness that can detract from the overall feel. The T1's polished finish ensures that the actuation remains smooth, allowing for fluid movement between keypresses. While there is less information about the tactile characteristics of the WS POM+, the focus on its buttery-smooth keystroke indicates that it is engineered for a seamless, fluid typing experience, contributing to a smooth feel as well.
In summary, both the Durock T1 and Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches offer unique auditory and tactile experiences. The T1 presents a gentle, low-pitched sound profile paired with a comfortably stepped tactile feedback, making it a well-rounded choice for those seeking comfort in their typing. Meanwhile, the WS POM+ stands out with its satisfying "thock" sound and a focus on smoothness, appealing to those who prioritize auditory feedback and effortless keystrokes. While both switches provide exceptional typing experiences, personal preference in sound and feel will ultimately guide the selection for any newcomer to mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Durock T1 tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal typing preferences and the environment in which you plan to use them. If you enjoy a more tactile experience with a noticeable bump that adds a bit of character to your typing, the T1 is a great option. Its medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams offers a reassuring resistance, perfect for those who like to feel their keystrokes without overwhelming feedback. The low-pitched sound profile contributes to a mellow typing experience that can be desirable in both work and home settings. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and a smoother, more linear keystroke, the WS POM+ may be more your speed. With a bottom out force of only 55 grams, this switch provides a buttery-smooth experience and a delightful, deep "thock" sound, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a fluid typing action or are more inclined towards gaming. Therefore, consider your typing style and the auditory environment you wish to create; whether you opt for the tactile charm of the T1 or the smooth elegance of the WS POM+, each switch brings its distinct strengths to your mechanical keyboard experience.
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