Jwick Taro vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the Jwick Taro and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between tactile and linear can greatly influence your typing experience. The Jwick Taro, a tactile switch, offers a cozy aesthetic complemented by a snappy mid-level tactile response and sharp, crisp clacks, making it ideal for users who appreciate feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ stands out as a linear switch, renowned for its buttery-smooth keystrokes and a deep, satisfying "thock" sound signature, catering to those who prefer a quieter, more fluid typing experience. While the Taro may appeal to typists who enjoy the satisfaction of tactile feedback and an engaging audio profile, the WS POM+ is perfect for those who seek a seamless and less disruptive experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can make the best decision for your needs!
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
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Jwick Taro and the Wuque Studio WS POM+, both switches exhibit unique characteristics due to their respective top housings. The Taro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This makes it particularly effective for users who enjoy a bright auditory feedback and who may be interested in RGB lighting, as polycarbonate's translucency enhances the visual experience. In contrast, the WS POM+ features a POM top housing, which produces a deeper, more muted sound profile. The inherent characteristics of POM, while appreciated for creating a uniquely pleasing auditory experience, result in sound that is less resonant than that of the polycarbonate used in Taro switches. Thus, if one is aiming for a brighter sound with clear highs, the Taro is favored, while the WS POM+ offers a more subdued tonal quality.
The bottom housing of both switches further adds to their distinct auditory experiences. The Taro employs a nylon bottom housing, a material well-regarded in the mechanical switch community for its ability to absorb sound, thus producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This absorption results in a softer, rounder sound that provides a more cushioned feel during typing. On the other hand, the WS POM+ utilizes a POM bottom housing, which also delivers a pleasant sound yet aligns more closely with its top housing, maintaining a deeper and less bright auditory experience. The similarity in the use of POM for the bottom housing of the WS POM+ contrasts with the nylon base of the Taro, and the effects of these differences manifest during the bottom-out feel and sound of each switch.
The combined effects of these housing materials highlight the importance of understanding how they interact to define the overall typing experience. In cases where the top and bottom housings differ, such as between the Jwick Taro's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom versus the Wuque Studio WS POM+'s POM housings, the characteristics of each material play separate but complementary roles. The result is a typing experience where the Taro's resonant highs contrast sharply with the deeper tones of the WS POM+, allowing users to choose a sound profile that aligns more closely with their preferences. Ultimately, regardless of the differences, both switches can deliver pleasing sound experiences; users simply need to consider which auditory qualities they personally favor for compatibility in their typing environments.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Jwick Taro tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, there are notable differences that cater to varying user preferences. The Taro's actuation force is currently unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the WS POM+ features a specified actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, reflecting a medium-light feel. This means that the WS POM+ is lighter overall, making it more suitable for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for extended use in work or long gaming sessions. Conversely, the Taro, with its heavier bottom out force, may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. As such, while both switches offer distinct tactile experiences, the Taro is better suited for users who favor a firmer push, while the WS POM+ is advantageous for those seeking a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Jwick Taro tactile switch features a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Taro the longer option, providing a more pronounced depth when pressed, which may appeal to users who appreciate a deeper key press for tactile feedback. In contrast, the WS POM+ switch, with its shorter travel distance, can deliver faster response times, aligning well with the preferences of gamers who favor swift actuation. Ultimately, while both switches offer a compact travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, if you're seeking a more responsive feel, you may lean towards the WS POM+, but for a more substantial typing experience, the Taro would be the better choice.
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 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
When it comes to sound, the Jwick Taro tactile switch delivers acute and crisp clacks, contributing to an engaging auditory experience that many users might find refreshing. This results in a lively sound profile that enhances the tactile feedback of each keystroke. In comparison, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switch has a deep, thocky sound signature, which is characterized by a low-pitched and rich acoustic experience. It can be described as producing a satisfying "thud" upon actuation, striking a balance between a muted and impactful sound. While the Taro will appeal to those who appreciate a sharper auditory reaction, the WS POM+ caters to those who prefer a more subdued yet resonant tonal quality.
In terms of feel, the Taro switches are known for their snappy, medium-level tactility, providing that vibrations of tactile feedback through a stepped sensation, where users can detect a distinct moment during travel. This unique tactile design enhances the typing experience by making it engaging without overwhelming the user. Conversely, the WS POM+ switches excel in delivering a buttery smooth keystroke with a silky touch, minimizing resistance and providing a seamless typing feel. Users will find that while both switches offer a fluid typing experience, the Taro’s stepped tactility offers a different engagement level than the silky smoothness found in the WS POM+.
In conclusion, both the Jwick Taro and Wuque Studio WS POM+ offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The Taro provides a crisp and lively sound along with a tactile typing experience that includes a stepped sensation, making it appealing for users who enjoy both auditory feedback and subtle tactile feedback. On the other hand, the WS POM+ switch brings a deep, thocky sound and a buttery feel that creates an effortlessly smooth typing journey. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize crisp, tactile feedback or a deeper, smoother sound and feel when you type.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the Jwick Taro tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch depends largely on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you enjoy a medium-heavy switch that provides tactile feedback, along with a crisp and snappy sound profile, the Taro would be an excellent choice, especially if you appreciate a typing experience that balances comfort with a tactile bump. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter, more fluid typing experience characterized by an enjoyable "thock" sound and buttery smooth keystrokes, the WS POM+ linear switch would suit you better, particularly for prolonged typing sessions where ease of use is paramount. Ultimately, both switches offer unique sensations and auditory feedback, so your choice should align closely with your personal preferences for weight, sound, and feel.
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