Durock Black Lotus vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Black Lotus and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile offer distinct experiences for users. The Black Lotus is a linear switch that is renowned for its silky smooth feel and precise actuation, with a 55g actuation weight providing a substantial but not too hefty typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile is a tactile switch that maintains smoothness while offering a snappy and perceptible tactile bump, along with a neutral sound signature. Both switches have unique features that cater to different preferences, whether you prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience like the Black Lotus or a tactile bump with neutral sound like the WS Light Tactile. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile, we see that both switches feature a top housing made of high-quality material. The Black Lotus utilizes a Modified PC and UPE Blend, which provides a unique and premium feel, while the WS Light Tactile uses polycarbonate to create a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. Both materials are known for their durability and aesthetically pleasing qualities, making them popular choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the materials differ in their sound profiles, users can expect a similar level of quality and performance from both switches.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, both the Black Lotus and the WS Light Tactile opt for nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound-absorbing properties. This means that while the top housing may contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel. The use of nylon in both switches indicates a focus on creating a satisfying typing experience with a rounded and dull sound, appealing to those who enjoy a softer typing feel.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Durock Black Lotus and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile reflects a balance between sound profile, durability, and aesthetics. While the Black Lotus offers a blend of Modified PC and UPE for the top housing, providing a unique feel, the WS Light Tactile utilizes polycarbonate for a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches feature nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, highlighting the importance of material selection in creating a satisfying typing experience. Whether you prefer a premium feel or a higher-pitched sound, both switches offer quality housing materials that contribute to an overall enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch differ in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Black Lotus has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. The Black Lotus offers a more substantial typing feel due to its heavier forces, while the WS Light Tactile allows for longer typing sessions with its lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key using either of these switches, you will feel the same distance being traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance may result in similar typing experiences for users of both switches, as they will provide a consistent feel in terms of key press depth. Overall, the travel distance for both switches is the same, resulting in no significant difference between the two in this regard.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Black Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Black Lotus for $4.57.
The Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile comes in at $4.20 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 Black Lotus switch is known for its unique light column providing in-switch lighting and a neutral sound signature. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch is also described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various typing environments. Both switches offer a moderate sound profile, ensuring that they are not too loud or distracting for users.
In terms of feel, the Black Lotus switch is praised for its silky and buttery smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance and providing a fluid key press. Additionally, it is described as offering a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch is characterized as having a stepped tactile feel, providing a two-stage bump sensation during keystrokes. It is also noted for being easy-to-press, with gentle resistance and light actuation force for comfortable and effortless typing.
Overall, both the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Black Lotus excels in providing a smooth and refined typing experience with in-switch lighting, the WS Light Tactile stands out for its stepped tactile feel and easy-to-press nature. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, users can expect similar results in terms of quality and performance from both switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when selecting between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force with a silky smooth feel and in-switch lighting, the Black Lotus may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force with a snappy tactile bump and a neutral sound signature, the WS Light Tactile could be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference for actuation weight, feel, and sound. Choose the switch that aligns with your keyboarding experience and typing preferences for the best overall typing experience.
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