Dareu Master vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Master with its linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion also with a linear switch are both compelling options. The Dareu Master's all-POM linear switch strikes a medium weight that provides a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness. On the other hand, the WS Onion features a polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing that offer a buttery smooth keystroke feel and a crisp, responsive experience. The Master switch is categorized as clacky, mild, polished, while the WS Onion is categorized as neutral, buttery, polished. These general pointers give a brief overview of what each switch offers, 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
WS CL635 Gold Plated Stainless Spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Dareu Master and the Wuque Studio WS Onion differ significantly in terms of sound profiles. While the Master utilizes POM for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deep and muted sound, the WS Onion features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. This contrast leads to the WS Onion producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound compared to the Master's softer and more rounded sound. This difference in housing materials showcases how the materials used can greatly impact the overall sound experience of a keyboard switch.
Aesthetically, the housing materials of the Dareu Master and the Wuque Studio WS Onion also differ in terms of their transparency and appearance. The POM top and bottom housings of the Master are not transparent, whereas the WS Onion's polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. The contrast between the opaque POM housing of the Master and the translucent polycarbonate housing of the WS Onion demonstrates how the choice of housing material can also influence the visual design and customization options of a keyboard switch.
Despite their differences, the Dareu Master and the Wuque Studio WS Onion both prioritize the quality of sound produced by their housing materials. Whether it be the deep and unique sound of POM in the Master or the sharp and clear sound of polycarbonate in the WS Onion, both switches aim to provide users with a satisfying typing experience. While their housing materials may vary in terms of stiffness and sound profile, ultimately, both switches are designed to deliver a high-quality sound and tactile feedback to enhance the overall typing experience for users.
Weight
The Dareu Master linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, which has an unspecified actuation force. However, the WS Onion has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the bottom out force for the Master is unknown. The Master switch would be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the WS Onion switch would cater to users who enjoy a more substantial push feel when typing. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, providing options for users with different preferences.
Travel distance
The Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Master's travel distance is shorter than the WS Onion's, making it a preferred choice for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the WS Onion's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial and satisfying feeling when typing. Both switches offer different advantages based on their travel distances, catering to the preferences of different users. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preference for travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
The Wuque Studio WS Onion has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Onion for $5.53.
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 Dareu Master switch offers a classic clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion switch has a neutral sound profile, offering a moderate sound that is suitable for most intents and purposes. The sound of a switch is also affected by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so keep that in mind when choosing between the two.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Master switch has a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable typing sensation. The WS Onion switch, on the other hand, provides a buttery and polished feel, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is effortless and uniform. Both switches offer a smooth key travel and reduced friction, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Overall, the Dareu Master linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a clacky sound with a polished and mild typing experience, the Dareu Master switch is a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound with a buttery and polished feel that is deeply satisfying, the WS Onion switch would be a great option. Ultimately, both switches offer smooth operation and satisfaction in typing, ensuring a pleasant mechanical keyboard experience for users.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a keyboard switch with a medium weight that provides a classic clacky sound and exceptional smoothness in operation, the Dareu Master linear switch is a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth keystroke feel with a crisp and responsive typing experience and a neutral sound profile, then the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch would be more suited to your preferences. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and overall typing experience when deciding between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different user preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your needs.
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