Durock T1 vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the Durock T1 and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer unique typing experiences are the Durock T1 and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow. The T1 is a tactile switch known for its super comfortable typing feel, with a medium bump that provides a satisfying tactile feedback. Additionally, its sound is reminiscent of rain falling on a window, creating an immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Yellow is a linear switch that offers a timeless fusion of classic materials and cutting-edge engineering. With a 22mm double-stage spring at its core, these switches deliver a delightful typing experience, characterized by a satisfying bounce. Moreover, their material blend produces a familiar sound signature that enthusiasts have come to adore. Crafted to be lightweight, the WS Yellow switches provide effortlessly smooth and fluid keystrokes. 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
67g
Bottom-out force
53g
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 Yellow both have different housing materials for their top and bottom parts. The T1 features a polycarbonate top housing, while the WS Yellow uses a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the T1 creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the WS Yellow provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. These differences in housing materials result in distinct typing experiences.
In terms of aesthetics, the T1's polycarbonate top housing is transparent, making it suitable for use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the WS Yellow's nylon top housing is not transparent. This means that if you're looking for a switch that allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects, the T1 would be the better choice. However, if you prioritize a switch with a deeper and fuller sound, the WS Yellow with its nylon top housing would be more suitable.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the T1 and WS Yellow use nylon as the material. As with the top housing, the nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. Therefore, if you prefer a switch that creates a more muted sound profile, both the T1 and WS Yellow would provide similar results due to their nylon bottom housings.
When it comes to the typing experience, the differences between the top and bottom housing materials become apparent. Pressing down on the T1 switch will primarily showcase the qualities of the nylon bottom housing, contributing to the bottom-out sound and feel of the key. On the other hand, releasing the key will highlight the impact of the polycarbonate top housing on the sound. Similarly, with the WS Yellow switch, the nylon top housing will have a more significant influence on the sound when letting go of a key, while the nylon bottom housing will affect the bottom-out sound and feel.
In summary, the Durock T1 and Wuque Studio WS Yellow differ in their housing materials, resulting in varied sound profiles and aesthetics. The T1's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, suitable for use with RGB lighting, while the WS Yellow's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. However, both switches have nylon bottom housings, leading to a similar duller and rounder sound profile. The choice between these switches ultimately depends on your priorities for sound quality and visual customization.
Weight
When comparing the Durock T1 tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, their actuation and bottom out forces show some notable differences. Unfortunately, the specific actuation force for both switches is unknown, but the T1 has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which could be considered medium-heavy. In contrast, the WS Yellow has a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it medium-light.
Considering weight, some users may prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions, as it allows for greater endurance. This could be particularly advantageous for those who use their keyboards at work or engage in prolonged gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who seek a more substantial typing experience might opt for switches with heavier forces, providing a stronger push feel.
Despite the unavailability of exact actuation force values for both switches, it can be inferred that the WS Yellow may have a lighter actuation force compared to the T1 due to its relatively lighter bottom out force. While the T1 offers a medium-heavy bottom out force, delivering a more forceful typing feel, the WS Yellow presents a medium-light bottom out force, resulting in a slightly lighter typing experience. Overall, the choice between these switches would depend on an individual's preference for the desired typing sensation and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Durock T1 tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch have different travel distances. The T1 has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the WS Yellow has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. The T1 is closer to the traditional travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the WS Yellow provides a slightly shallower experience with its 3.8 mm travel distance. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference and specific use case. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the WS Yellow with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial and deeper feel when pressing down on a key may prefer the T1 with its slightly longer travel distance. In either case, both switches offer a different tactile experience, with the T1 providing a bit more depth and the WS Yellow offering a slightly quicker response.
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 Yellow 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
When it comes to sound, the Durock T1 tactile switch offers a low-pitched sound profile. This means that it has a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It is also described as having a neutral sound, which means it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. This makes it suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced typist, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch's sound characteristics are unknown. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also dependent on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. So while the WS Yellow's sound signature is not mentioned, you can expect similar results to the T1 if used in a similar setup.
When it comes to feel, the Durock T1 tactile switch offers a stepped feel. This means that it feels like it has two stages, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. It is also described as being accented, which means it provides a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the T1 has a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. This could be due to lubricant applied in the switch at the factory or specific materials used. The WS Yellow is also described as mild, providing a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Similar to the T1, the WS Yellow also has a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Durock T1 tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch offer different subjective qualities. The T1 has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, while the WS Yellow's sound characteristics are unknown. In terms of feel, the T1 offers a stepped and accented tactile experience with a polished finish, while the WS Yellow provides a creamy and mild linear experience with a polished finish as well. It is important to consider these qualities and choose the switch that aligns with your personal preferences. However, if you are looking for similar results, you can expect a comfortable typing experience with both switches due to their polished finish and smooth key travel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a tactile switch that provides a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a low-pitched sound, the Durock T1 is a great choice. It has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, offering a satisfying amount of feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a lightweight linear switch that delivers effortless keystrokes and a smooth and fluid typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, it offers a medium-light feel with a mild and creamy sensation. Both switches have a polished finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the decision between the Durock T1 and the WS Yellow comes down to your preference for tactility and sound (for the T1) or a gentle, buttery typing experience (for the WS Yellow). So, consider your typing style and preferences when choosing between these two switches.
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