Jwick Taro vs. Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear
An in-depth look at the Jwick Taro and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are many options to choose from. Two popular choices are the Jwick Taro, a tactile switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear, a linear switch. The Taro switches are known for their comfy subdued color scheme and offer a similarly cozy typing experience. They provide a snappy medium-level of tactility and produce acute and crisp clacks. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear switches are perfect for those who prefer a smooth and high-pitched typing experience. These switches boast a transparent polycarbonate top housing and UHMWPE bottom housing, allowing for maximum RGB lighting customization. The POM stem is lightly lubed, resulting in minimal friction and a satisfyingly smooth keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you. Consider your typing preferences, the level of tactility desired, and whether or not RGB customization is important.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Double-staged stainless steel
Housing materials
The Jwick Taro and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear both feature polycarbonate top housing. This material choice creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it a popular choice for switches with RGB lighting. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate adds to the appeal of both the Taro and the WS Aurora Clear. As a result, users can expect similar sound and visual experiences when using these switches.
While the top housings of the Taro and the WS Aurora Clear are the same, their bottom housings differ. The Taro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which brings about a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This absorption creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housing. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear features UHWMPE bottom housing, a newer material that offers a very bright sound signature. Users can expect resonant clacks when typing on switches with UHWMPE bottom housing. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, contributing to the overall typing experience.
Overall, the housing materials of the Taro and the WS Aurora Clear offer a mix of similarities and differences. Both switches utilize polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a consistent sharp and resonant sound profile. However, the Taro's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the WS Aurora Clear's UHWMPE bottom housing produces brighter and more resonant clacks. These variations in bottom housing materials contribute to differences in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches. Nevertheless, users can expect quality sound experiences from both switches, with slight variations depending on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Taro tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, there are notable differences. The Taro has an unavailable actuation force, while the WS Aurora Clear has an actuation force of 53 grams. Both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force, with the Taro at 67 grams and the WS Aurora Clear at 63.5 grams.
Considering weight in switches is important for various reasons. Those who prefer a lighter switch may appreciate the ability to type for extended periods, making it ideal for work or long gaming sessions. However, individuals who desire a more substantial typing experience may opt for switches with heavier forces.
While the exact actuation force of the Taro is unknown, it can be assumed that it falls within a comparable range to the WS Aurora Clear. Both switches require similar forces to trigger keystrokes, resulting in a similar actuation experience. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Taro necessitates a slightly heavier force of 67 grams, while the WS Aurora Clear requires 63.5 grams.
In conclusion, the Taro and WS Aurora Clear differ in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Taro has an undisclosed actuation force and a heavier bottom out force, making it slightly weightier than the WS Aurora Clear. However, individuals seeking a similar actuation experience can expect comparable results from both switches.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Jwick Taro tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, it can be observed that the Taro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7mm, while the WS Aurora Clear has a travel distance of 3.8mm. Although the difference between the two is minimal, it is worth noting that the Taro offers a slightly shallower experience, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial feel may lean towards the WS Aurora Clear with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on individual preferences and the desired level of responsiveness or depth required. Nonetheless, both switches provide similar results in terms of travel distance, ensuring a satisfactory typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
The Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear comes in at $8.00 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 Jwick Taro switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate level of clack. The sound is acute and crisp, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear switch produces a high-pitched sound when pressed. This switch is ideal for those who prefer a sharper and more pronounced sound. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.
When it comes to feel, both the Jwick Taro and WS Aurora Clear switches provide a buttery typing experience. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke with minimal friction. Additionally, the Taro switch is described as having a stepped feel, meaning it has two stages of tactile feedback. This provides a more mild tactile experience compared to switches with a larger bump. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear switch is considered mild, offering a gentle typing feel that appeals to a wide range of users. It is also described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that enhances the overall typing experience. Both switches offer a seamless and effortless typing sensation, with slight variations in their tactile feedback.
Taking all the available information into account, the Jwick Taro switch and the WS Aurora Clear switch offer unique subjective qualities. The Taro switch provides a cozy and medium-level tactile experience, accompanied by acute and crisp clacks. It is a versatile switch suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear switch offers a smooth and high-pitched typing experience, with maximum RGB lighting customization capabilities. Both switches prioritize a buttery feel, ensuring a seamless and uniform typing sensation. While they offer slightly different sound profiles and tactile feedback, they both aim to provide an enjoyable and comfortable typing experience. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between the Taro switch for a neutral sound with a medium-level of tactility or the WS Aurora Clear switch for a sharper sound and a smooth linear feel.
Conclusion
To wrap up, the Jwick Taro tactile switch would be a great choice if you value a comfortable and cozy typing experience. With a medium-heavy bottom out force, these switches offer a snappy and medium-level of tactility, accompanied by acute and crisp clacks. The Taro switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. In terms of feel, the Taro switches are considered buttery, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Additionally, they are categorized as stepped switches, meaning they have a mild tactile bump with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and high-pitched typing experience with maximum RGB lighting customization, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch would be an excellent choice. With a medium-heavy bottom out force and a transparent polycarbonate top housing, these switches offer a satisfyingly smooth keystroke experience. They are described as high-pitched switches, producing sharp and crisp sounds when pressed. In terms of feel, the WS Aurora Clear switches are also considered buttery and provide a gentle typing experience due to their mild characteristics. Furthermore, these switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between the Jwick Taro tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch depends on your preference for tactility, sound profile, and typing experience.
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