HMX Game1989 vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can greatly influence your typing experience. The HMX 1989 is renowned for its thocky sound profile and deep actuation, making it an ideal choice for gamers and typists seeking a satisfying auditory feedback while typing. This switch offers a robust feel that many enthusiasts appreciate, especially those who enjoy a more tactile experience. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches bring a blend of innovation and aesthetics to the table, featuring a light column for enhanced RGB effects and a UPE stem that delivers an airy smoothness. With a muted sound profile owing to its all-POM housings, the WS Morandi is perfect for users who prefer a quieter typing experience without sacrificing quality. Both switches cater to different preferences and styles—whether you're drawn to the deep thock of the HMX 1989 or the silky smoothness of the WS Morandi, each has its own charm. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
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
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX 1989 and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi, notable distinctions arise in sound profiles created by their respective top housings. The HMX 1989 uses a polycarbonate top housing, known for its ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is largely due to the material's relative stiffness, which promotes a clearer resonance ideal for RGB lighting implementation due to its translucency. In contrast, the WS Morandi features a POM top housing, resulting in a sound profile that leans towards deeper and more muted tones. While both materials lend themselves to unique acoustic properties, they cater to different auditory experiences; polycarbonate leans towards brightness, whereas POM favors warmth.
The bottom housing of each switch further compounds their differences in sound profile and tactile feedback. The 1989 employs a nylon bottom housing, which is renowned for providing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer composition that absorbs sound, resulting in a duller and rounder audio profile. Conversely, the WS Morandi utilizes a POM bottom housing that also produces a deeper sound but it maintains a unique quality that keeps it relatively muted. This similarity in sound depth between the two materials hints at the possibility of achieving parallel auditory outcomes; while the materials differ, it demonstrates that a combination of contrasting properties from both top and bottom housings can create a balanced sound experience depending on individual preference.
Overall, the interaction of these housing materials reveals the nuanced approach to sound design in mechanical switches. For users who appreciate a bright and crisp keypress, the HMX 1989's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom may be favored. Meanwhile, those inclined towards a richer and fuller auditory experience might prefer the WS Morandi's dual POM construction. Ultimately, both switches, while differing in materials, offer pathways to similar sound characteristics. The combination of their housing components ensures a compelling range of tactile feedback and audio output, inviting users to explore which switch aligns best with their preferences.
Weight
The HMX 1989 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, impacting their overall typing experience. The HMX 1989 features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it more suitable for users who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, as the lighter engagement reduces fatigue. In contrast, the WS Morandi's actuation force is slightly heavier at 50 grams, with a bottom out force of 60 grams. This extra resistance offers a more substantial typing feel, appealing to those who prefer a firmer push when typing. As a result, while both switches provide a smooth linear experience, the HMX 1989 is the lighter choice and ideal for comfort in prolonged use, whereas the WS Morandi, being heavier, caters to those who enjoy a stronger tactile feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The HMX 1989 features a travel distance of 4.0 mm, aligning with the most traditional depth often favored for a more substantial keystroke experience. In contrast, the WS Morandi has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, catering to the current trend among gamers who seek quicker response times for better performance. If you prefer the more responsive feedback of a shallower switch, the WS Morandi would be the ideal choice. However, for those who appreciate a hearty depth in their keystrokes, the HMX 1989's longer travel distance would likely feel more satisfying. Overall, the HMX 1989 is the longer switch, while the WS Morandi offers a shorter travel distance, reflecting the different preferences that users may have in their typing or gaming experiences.
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 Morandi has an MSRP of $4.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Morandi for $3.90.
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 linear switch is characterized by its deep and thocky auditory profile, providing a rich, bass-heavy experience that resonates satisfyingly with each keystroke. This switch tends to deliver a pronounced "thud" or soft "knock" sound, which many users find appealing for both gaming and typing. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile that is also thocky, but with a slightly more muted quality, thanks to its all-POM housings. This combination results in a deeper and mellower tone that enhances the overall typing experience while providing a similar satisfying sound signature to that of the HMX 1989.
When it comes to feel, the HMX 1989 switch is often celebrated for its tactile response, although specific descriptors of its texture aren't provided. This might suggest a balanced linear experience, but it lacks extensive elaboration. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switch is renowned for its ultra-smooth performance, described as buttery, creamy, and silky. This smoothness not only reduces typing fatigue but also leads to an exceptionally seamless experience where fingers glide effortlessly across the keys. The Morandi switches' unique UPE stem further accentuates this sense of smoothness, creating a typing sensation that is distinctively enjoyable.
Overall, both the HMX 1989 and the WS Morandi linear switches cater to users looking for high-quality performance and sound in their mechanical keyboards. While the 1989 leans toward a more pronounced thocky sound, the WS Morandi emphasizes a smooth and creamy typing feel. If you desire a deep auditory experience with the 1989 or a more subdued sound with the Morandi, you can expect to enjoy an overall satisfying typing or gaming experience from either switch. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel, as both switches promise their own unique pleasures within the realm of mechanical typing.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch ultimately hinges on your preferences for feel, sound, and application. If you're looking for a switch that offers a medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams, is thocky, and has a deep, satisfying sound profile, then the HMX 1989 might be the right fit for you—especially if you're a gamer or someone who enjoys a more pronounced auditory feedback when typing. Its unique design as part of the HMX Film switch series lends itself well to both gaming and general typing, allowing for a tactile experience that can make each keystroke feel rewarding. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that provides a creamy, buttery feel with a bottom out force of 60 grams, the WS Morandi could be more suitable. Its innovative UPE stem promises a silky smooth keystroke and a muted, low-pitched sound that enhances the overall typing experience, especially if you value aesthetics alongside performance due to its enhanced RGB capabilities. Ultimately, by reflecting on your typing style and the environment in which you’ll be using the keyboard—be it for gaming, work, or creative pursuits—you can make an informed decision that aligns with your personal satisfaction and functional needs.
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