HMX Game1989 vs. Wuque Studio WS Dash
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch for your typing and gaming experience, the HMX 1989 and the Wuque Studio WS Dash offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The HMX 1989, celebrated for its deep and thocky sound, falls into the linear category, providing a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke ideal for gamers seeking quick actuations without tactile bumps. On the other hand, the WS Dash employs Hall Effect technology, delivering a bright and clacky sound signature that is not only satisfying but also enhances the tactile feel, making it a great choice for both typists and gamers who appreciate auditory feedback. While the 1989 emphasizes a thocky feel perfect for those who favor a quieter workspace, the WS Dash brings a refined elegance and a more pronounced auditory quality to the user experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T5
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX 1989 and the Wuque Studio WS Dash both feature polycarbonate top housings, which significantly influence the acoustics and aesthetics of each switch. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile that enhances the clarity of keystrokes. This material's translucency also plays a crucial role for users who desire RGB lighting since it allows light to pass through effectively, creating vibrant illumination. Consequently, both switches deliver similar auditory experiences attributed to their shared use of polycarbonate in the upper housing, making them both favorable choices for a visually appealing and acoustically engaging typing experience.
On the contrary, the bottom housings of the two switches highlight a striking similarity in the choice of nylon, a material celebrated for its sound-dampening properties and overall robustness. Nylon's softer composition absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. This means that while both the HMX 1989 and WS Dash produce a satisfying auditory feedback, the nylon bottom housing contributes to a rounded sound that contrasts with the sharper notes produced by the polycarbonate top. As a result, users can expect a well-balanced acoustic performance combining the crispness of the top housing with the depth offered by the bottom.
Furthermore, the interplay between the materials in each switch showcases how the sound quality is a symbiosis of both housing components. The HMX 1989 and WS Dash provide similar sound signatures, but the distinct characteristics of each housing impact the overall typing experience. The polycarbonate top hones in on clarity and resonance, while the nylon bottom enriches the sound profile for a fuller experience. Users can enjoy the best of both worlds: the engaging light effects provided by the clear top housing combined with the warmth and depth from the nylon housing, making both switches excellent options for those seeking functionality with aesthetic appeal in their typing instruments.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, there are notable differences and similarities in their actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX 1989 has an actuation force of 45 grams, which makes it heavier compared to the WS Dash's lighter actuation force of 30 grams. This suggests that users looking for a lighter typing experience will prefer the WS Dash, as it requires less force to register a keystroke, ideal for long typing or gaming sessions. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the HMX 1989 reaches 53 grams, while the WS Dash has a slightly higher bottom out force of 55 grams. This similarity in bottom out forces indicates that both switches deliver a comparable feel when pressing down fully, despite the differences in actuation forces. Thus, while both options are categorized as medium-light switches, the HMX 1989 is the heavier choice in terms of actuation force, while the WS Dash provides a lighter touch for the initial keystroke.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX 1989 linear switch measures 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch comes in at a shorter 3.5 mm. This difference indicates that the HMX 1989 provides a more traditional and deeper key feel, which some users may prefer for its hearty depth and tactile feedback. In contrast, the WS Dash's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers or those seeking rapid response times, as it allows for quicker actuation without having to press as far down. Therefore, if you value a more substantial keypress, the HMX 1989 would be the better choice, while the WS Dash would suit those who favor a more responsive typing experience. Overall, while both switches serve different preferences, they highlight the trend towards shorter travel distances in modern keyboard design.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Game1989 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Game1989 for $3.29.
The Wuque Studio WS Dash has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Dash for $7.49.
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 sound profile of the HMX 1989 linear switch is characterized by its deep and thocky quality, which is reminiscent of the classic mechanical keyboard sounds that enthusiasts often seek for a satisfying auditory experience. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch offers a bright and clacky sound signature that provides a lively acoustic feedback when typing. While both switches deliver distinct auditory experiences, the type of keyboard and choice of keycaps can also significantly influence how these sounds manifest, leading to a unique overall sound for each setup.
When it comes to feel, the 1989 switch is noted for its smoothness and satisfying tactile response that resonates with users who appreciate a more substantial keystroke, allowing for fluid and controlled typing. Conversely, the WS Dash switch is described as having a silky smooth keystroke, which enhances the overall typing experience by allowing for rapid key presses without any jarring interruptions. While both switches emphasize a smooth feel, the 1989 leans toward a deeper, more substantial tactile feedback, while the WS Dash provides an effortless glide with its refined design.
In summary, the HMX 1989 is known for its thocky sound and substantial feel, making it suitable for users who appreciate a deeper typing experience. In contrast, the WS Dash hall effect switch offers a clackier sound and a silky smooth operation that caters to those who prefer a faster and lighter typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel, as both have their unique strengths that can lead to an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, it's essential to consider your specific use case and preferences. If you prioritize a deeper, thocky sound signature and feel, the 1989 is an excellent choice, especially for gamers who enjoy a satisfying, grounded keystroke. Its medium-light 53g actuation force provides a responsive experience, making it suitable for fast-paced gaming or extended typing sessions where comfort is key. On the other hand, if you favor a brighter, more clacky sound profile combined with an exceptionally smooth keystroke, the WS Dash is your ideal switch. Its slightly higher actuation force at 55g offers a unique tactile feedback that can enhance your typing experience, especially if you appreciate a refined feel while using your Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. Ultimately, selecting between these two switches boils down to whether you seek a deeper, richer sound with a solid feel (HMX 1989) or a lighter, more airy experience with a pleasing auditory feedback (WS Dash). Consider testing each switch if possible to find the one that aligns best with your typing or gaming style.
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