HMX Game1989 vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can greatly influence your typing experience, and two standout options to consider are the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch. The HMX 1989, renowned for its deep thocky sound and buttery smooth keystrokes, is ideal for gamers and typists who favor uninterrupted action and a satisfying auditory feedback during gameplay or heavy typing sessions. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch offers a delightful tactile bump that enhances the typing experience while remaining quiet—perfect for those who appreciate a bit of feedback without the intrusive noise. The WS switches are designed to be easy to press, making them a solid choice for long typing sessions. Both switches have their own unique appeal depending on your personal preferences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
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
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX 1989 and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile, it becomes evident that both models utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This shared material choice brings about several acoustic advantages, contributing to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that resonates clearly when the switches are engaged. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances this clarity, making both the HMX 1989 and the WS Light Tactile particularly effective for users who prioritize instrumental fidelity, especially when RGB lighting is involved. The translucency of polycarbonate not only allows for stunning visual effects through RGB lighting but also assures users of a consistent sound experience, which should be similarly crisp across both switch models due to the identical top housing approach.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches are made from nylon, a traditional and well-regarded material in the switch-making community. Nylon contributes a distinct character by softening the sound profile – creating deeper, fuller tones when typing. As nylon is a comparatively softer plastic, it absorbs sound more effectively than its harder counterparts, leading to a noticeably duller and rounder auditory experience. This acoustic profile contrasts with the crispness provided by the polycarbonate top, yet when each material is combined in their respective switch housings, the result is a harmonious balance of sound and feel that typists may find appealing. Therefore, while both products feature similar material advantages in their top housings, the arrangement of materials creates a rich auditory experience that is both nuanced and complementary.
The overall interaction between the top and bottom housings of both the HMX 1989 and the WS Light Tactile highlights the nuanced ways that housing materials influence typing experience. With both models sharing polycarbonate tops, users can expect a consistent high-pitched clarity from both switches as they release keys. Meanwhile, the nylon bottoms provide an essential balance, ensuring that key presses are rounded off with a warmer undertone. This synergy between sound profiles means that whether you’re engaged with the HMX 1989 or the WS Light Tactile, the user experience is notably rich, offering a blend of both crisp upper notes and warm lower tones. Ultimately, the juxtaposition of these materials underscores the craftsmanship behind each switch, revealing similar results in typing experience despite the dual-material strategy employed.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, indicating that users will experience a similar level of effort needed to register a keystroke. However, their bottom out forces differ, with the HMX 1989 at 53 grams and the WS Light Tactile at 50 grams; this means that the WS Light Tactile switch bottoms out slightly easier, offering a lighter feel overall. Consequently, while both switches may provide similar actuation experiences, the 1989 requires a bit more force to reach the bottom, making it the heavier option. For those who prefer longer typing sessions without fatigue, the lighter weight of the WS Light Tactile may be more appealing, while the HMX 1989 could cater to users seeking a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX 1989 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch both feature a travel distance of 4 mm, indicating that they have the same distance when pressed from top to bottom. This similarity means that users can expect comparable feedback and actuation feel when using either switch, resulting in a similar typing experience. Since both switches have identical travel distances, those looking for consistent performance across their keyboard can switch freely between these two options without worrying about differences in key feel or travel.
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 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
In terms of sound, the HMX 1989 switch is renowned for producing a rich, deep thock that many enthusiasts appreciate, especially for its satisfying auditory feedback. This gives the switch a more pronounced character when typing, making it well-suited for those who enjoy a more acoustic typing experience. Comparatively, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch boasts a neutral sound signature, which strikes a balance that is neither overly loud nor too muted. Its moderate sound profile makes it a versatile option for various environments, whether office or home, appealing to both beginners and seasoned typists.
When considering the feel of these switches, the HMX 1989 offers a smooth linear action without any tactile bump, catering to those who prefer an uninterrupted keypress. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile switch is characterized by its stepped tactile feel, which features a discernible bump during actuation. This tactile feedback provides a comforting sensation that enhances typing accuracy while maintaining a low actuation force, ensuring that users experience minimal fatigue during extended typing sessions. The ease of pressing the WS Light Tactile combined with its noticeable tactile feedback creates a unique typing experience that differs significantly from the smooth, linear performance of the HMX 1989.
In summary, the HMX 1989 switch delivers a satisfying thock sound and a smooth linear feel, making it ideal for those who value impactful acoustics in their typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile and a stepped tactile sensation, which suits users who prefer a more nuanced feedback while typing. Each switch embodies distinct qualities, allowing newcomers to choose based on their personal preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy impactful sound and smooth typing, the HMX 1989 may be the right choice. If you’re leaning towards a more balanced experience with tactile feedback, the WS Light Tactile could be your ideal switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch largely depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you prefer a medium-light feel with a thocky sound and that deep, satisfying bottom-out experience, the HMX 1989 might be the ideal choice for you, especially if you enjoy a smooth key press that resonates during gaming sessions or general typing. On the other hand, if you are looking for a gentle typing experience with an easy-to-press design, the WS Light Tactile switch is likely to suit you best, offering a light and snappy tactile bump that maintains smoothness and a neutral sound profile suitable for both work and casual use. If you value a tactile feel that is less intense and more approachable for extended typing, the WS Light Tactile will provide you with a comfortable experience without fatiguing your fingers. Ultimately, the decision should be guided by how you plan to use your keyboard—whether it’s for intense gaming or long hours of productivity, choosing the right switch can enhance your overall experience significantly.
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