Durock Dolphin vs. Wuque Studio WS Jade
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Dolphin and Wuque Studio WS Jade both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Durock Dolphins are perfect for those seeking a silent typing experience, making them an ideal choice for quiet office environments. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, they provide a satisfying press with a bit more resistance, appealing to users who prioritize precision. In comparison, the Wuque Studio WS Jades are known for their bright metallic and resonant sound profile, thanks to the use of a metallic insert in their stem base. Additionally, the light diffuser enhances the typing experience with an enchanting RGB display. Both switches have distinctive characteristics, with the Dolphins being categorized as 'Polished', 'Muted', and 'Low-pitched', while the WS Jades are described as 'Clacky', 'Marbly', 'Resonant', 'Silky', and 'Creamy'. Ultimately, choosing between these switches depends on your preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. 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
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
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
Gold-plated spring
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Durock Dolphin and Wuque Studio WS Jade both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Dolphin's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, ideal for those who enjoy a more distinct typing experience. In contrast, the WS Jade's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, catering to users looking for a quieter typing experience. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, they cater to different preferences in terms of sound aesthetic.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Durock Dolphin features a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound, while the Wuque Studio WS Jade utilizes a POM bottom housing with a similar deep and muted sound profile. Despite the difference in materials, both switches offer a similar sound experience with their respective bottom housings. The nylon bottom housing of the Dolphin absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound, while the POM bottom housing of the WS Jade contributes to a similarly deep and muted sound profile.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall typing experience, it is clear that each material brings its own unique qualities to the switch. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key. Whether it is the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Dolphin or the deeper, muted sound of POM in the WS Jade, both switches offer a tailored typing experience based on the combination of their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Durock Dolphin has an actuation force of None grams, making it unknown, and a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is medium in weight. On the other hand, the WS Jade has a 50-gram actuation force and a 60-gram bottom out force, also classified as medium. In terms of weight, the Dolphin is lighter in actuation force compared to the WS Jade, but both fall within the medium range for bottom out force. Some may prefer the Dolphin for its lighter actuation force, allowing for longer typing sessions, while others may opt for the WS Jade for a slightly heavier push feel, providing a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, the Dolphin has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the WS Jade's 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are preferred by gamers for faster response times. The Dolphin's slightly longer travel distance may offer a bit more depth and feedback while typing, while the WS Jade's shorter travel distance may provide a more rapid and snappy typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Dolphin has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dolphin for $5.41.
The Wuque Studio WS Jade comes in at $4.30 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
The Durock Dolphin linear switch is favored for its muted and low-pitched sound profile, making it a great choice for those looking for a quieter typing experience. In contrast, the WS Jade linear switch is known for its clacky and resonant sound, providing a more percussive and higher-pitched auditory experience. When it comes to feel, the Dolphin offers a polished typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the WS Jade switch provides a silky and creamy feel, enhancing overall smoothness and minimizing resistance during key presses. Overall, the Durock Dolphin and WS Jade linear switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities, suiting different preferences. If you prefer a quieter typing experience with a bit more resistance, the Dolphin would be the way to go. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more bright and resonant sound with an exceptionally smooth feel, the WS Jade would be the better choice. Each switch offers a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences, so selecting the one that aligns with your sound and feel preferences will be key in achieving an optimal typing experience.
Conclusion
Thus, when considering whether to choose the Durock Dolphin linear switch or the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, you should take into account the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you value a silent typing experience for an office setting or a workspace where noise levels are a concern, the Durock Dolphin switches may be the preferable choice with their muted and low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more distinctive and resonant typing experience with a metallic insert in the stem base and a light diffuser for an enchanting RGB display, the WS Jade switches might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features in terms of sound and feel, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific requirements of your typing environment.
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