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Durock T1 vs. Wuque Studio WS Red

An in-depth look at the Durock T1 and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Durock T1 and the Wuque Studio WS Red. The T1 is well-regarded for its tactile feedback, providing a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and an auditory aesthetic akin to raindrops on a windowpane. In contrast, the WS Red offers a linear switch experience with a 22mm double-stage spring, resulting in a bouncy and responsive typing feel. Although it presents a heavier actuation force, this adds a sense of weight to every keystroke, delivering a satisfying and substantial experience. However, to truly determine the ideal switch for your needs, let us delve deeper beyond these generalities.

By the numbers

Technical specifications

Actuation force

N/A

Actuation force

N/A

Bottom-out force

67g

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

Nylon

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 Durock T1 and Wuque Studio WS Red differ in their housing materials, with the T1 featuring a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the WS Red has a nylon top and bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the T1 creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, making it suitable for users looking for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate is advantageous for those who plan on using RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the WS Red elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the softer plastic that absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound.

When it comes to the bottom housings, both the T1 and WS Red utilize nylon, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows for enhanced sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use this material. Whether it is the T1 or WS Red, the nylon bottom housing will have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, creating a satisfying typing experience for users.

While there are differences between the T1 and WS Red in terms of their housing materials, it is worth noting that both switches utilize nylon in their bottom housings. As a result, users can expect a similar deep and full sound profile when pressing down on either switch. However, the distinction lies in the top housings, with the T1's polycarbonate providing a sharper and crisper sound profile, in contrast to the WS Red's nylon top housing, which delivers a deeper and fuller sound. Therefore, users can achieve comparable results in terms of bottom-out sound and feel while experiencing a variation in the sound when releasing the keys depending on the switch they choose.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock T1 tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, there are notable similarities and differences. Starting with the actuation force, unfortunately, the information provided does not specify the exact force required for either switch. However, assuming they are similar or equal, users can expect a consistent experience in terms of triggering keystrokes.

Moving on to the bottom out force, both switches have a bottom out force of 67 grams, which categorizes them as medium-heavy switches. This means that users can expect a decent amount of resistance when fully pressing down on the keys, resulting in a more substantial typing experience.

Considering weight as a factor, lighter switches like the WS Red may be favored by those seeking prolonged typing comfort, particularly for work or prolonged gaming sessions. The lighter actuation force, if similar or equal between the two switches, would allow for a smoother and faster typing experience without putting excessive strain on the fingers.

Conversely, some individuals prefer a heavier actuation force for a tactile switch to provide a stronger push feel. These users may find the Durock T1 tactile switch more appealing, as it is described as having a bottom out force of 67 grams, which suggests a more robust and satisfying keystroke experience.

In conclusion, while the specific actuation forces remain unknown, both the Durock T1 tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch share a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams. The choice between the two rests on personal preference, with the WS Red offering a potentially lighter typing experience for extended periods and the Durock T1 providing a more substantial and forceful typing feel.

Travel distance

In comparing the travel distance of the Durock T1 tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it is evident that the T1 has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Red has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the WS Red the shorter of the two switches. The T1, with its 4.0 mm travel distance, falls into the category of a more traditional distance, whereas the WS Red's 3.8 mm distance is shallower. However, it is worth noting that shorter travel distances have become more popular, particularly among gamers who prioritize faster response times. Therefore, those seeking enhanced responsiveness may find the WS Red more suitable. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a deeper and more substantial keystroke experience may opt for the T1 with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience. Despite their differences, both switches offer comparable results in terms of travel distance.

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 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 Durock T1 is known for its low-pitched sound. Low-pitched switches typically have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. This creates a pleasant and calming sound that some users liken to the sound of rain falling on a window. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Wuque Studio WS Red switch is unknown. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.

Moving on to feel, the T1 is often described as a stepped, accented, and polished switch. A stepped switch has two stages of tactile feedback, providing a more mild and less pronounced bump compared to hypertactile switches. This means that users can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel while typing. Furthermore, the T1 switch offers a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, which is often referred to as an accented switch. Lastly, the T1 switch has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Unfortunately, there is no information available regarding the feel of the Wuque Studio WS Red switch.

Taking all the available information into consideration, it is evident that the Durock T1 tactile switch has a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump, low-pitched sound, and a stepped, accented, and polished feel. On the other hand, there is limited information about the subjective qualities of the Wuque Studio WS Red switch. However, based on the available information, it is clear that the WS Red switch offers a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force, providing a satisfying and substantial typing feel. While the specific sound and feel qualities of the WS Red switch are unknown, it is likely that users can achieve similar results to the T1 switch in terms of comfort and typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you're looking for a tactile switch that offers a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a low-pitched sound, the Durock T1 would be a great choice for you. Its medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams provides a satisfying weight to each keystroke. Additionally, the T1 is a stepped, accented, and polished switch, offering a refined and smooth typing experience.

On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a bouncy and responsive typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS Red would be a suitable option. With its 22mm double-stage spring, these switches deliver a satisfying and substantial typing feel. While we don't have specific information about the sound profile of the WS Red, we can expect it to have a familiar sound signature due to its classic material blend.

Ultimately, your choice between the Durock T1 and the Wuque Studio WS Red depends on your preference for tactile or linear switches, as well as the specific characteristics that matter most to you, such as the sound and feel. Consider these factors carefully to ensure that you find the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your needs.

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