HMX Game1989 vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the merits of different options, and two noteworthy contenders in the linear switch category are the HMX 1989 and the Wuque Studio WS Red. The HMX 1989, widely celebrated for its deep and thocky sound profile, offers a uniquely satisfying auditory feedback that appeals to typists who appreciate a pronounced keystroke. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Red is designed with a 22mm double-stage spring that provides a bouncy, responsive typing experience, coupled with a heavier actuation force that enhances the tactile feedback during use. While both switches promise smooth, linear action, the HMX 1989 is ideal for those seeking pronounced acoustics while the WS Red caters to users who prefer a more substantial feel in their keystrokes. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
T5
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX 1989 and the Wuque Studio WS Red exhibit distinct differences in their top housing materials, which directly influence their sound profiles. The HMX 1989 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. This stiffer plastic allows for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, making it particularly suited for users who prefer a more pronounced auditory response from their keystrokes. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it an ideal choice for RGB lighting, enhancing the visual aesthetic of the switch. In contrast, the WS Red features a nylon top housing, a classic choice that results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon acts to dampen sound, contributing to a rounder auditory experience. These differences in top housing materials set the two switches apart in terms of their sound characteristics.
Interestingly, while the two switches differ in their top housing materials, they both feature nylon in their bottom housing. This commonality means that both the HMX 1989 and the WS Red share similarities in the feel and bottom-out sound of their switches. The nylon used in the bottom housing absorbs sound, imparting a softer and more muted auditory response during actuation. This shared characteristic means that, despite their differing top housings, both switches will deliver a similar fundamental tactile feel and subdued sound upon key release. The impact of the bottom housing is significant when it comes to how the switches feel overall, allowing users to experience a comparative depth in sound and feedback regardless of the top housing material.
Ultimately, the contrasting top housing materials of the HMX 1989 and the Wuque Studio WS Red shape the primary sound profiles of the switches, while the presence of nylon in both bottom housings fosters a unified trait in how each switch feels during use. Users looking for a crisp and clear sound may gravitate toward the polycarbonate top of the HMX 1989, while those preferring a deeper and softer sound experience will likely favor the nylon top of the WS Red. Regardless of these differences, both switches harness the sound-dampening properties of nylon in their bottom housings, ensuring a consistent tactile experience that highlights the unique advantages of each material.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, there's a notable contrast in their actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX 1989 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. In contrast, the WS Red's actuation force is unknown, but it has a substantially higher bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This means that while the HMX 1989 requires a relatively lighter touch to trigger a keystroke, the WS Red will demand more force both for actuation and when bottoming out. Consequently, the HMX 1989 would likely be better suited for users seeking a lighter typing experience conducive to extended typing or gaming sessions, while the WS Red would appeal to those who prefer a firmer, more substantial feel under their fingers. Overall, the differences in these switches could significantly affect user comfort and typing style depending on individual preferences for actuation and overall force resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, there is a clear distinction to note. The HMX 1989 features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the traditional standard, providing a more pronounced tactile response that some users may find satisfying, especially those who prefer a deeper keypress. On the other hand, the WS Red has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm, catering to those who favor quicker actuation and responsiveness, a characteristic often sought after by gamers. Therefore, if rapid key presses are your priority, the WS Red might be the more suitable option. Conversely, if you enjoy a more substantial feel with your keystrokes, the HMX 1989 would be preferable given its longer travel distance. Overall, while both switches serve different preferences, the HMX 1989 provides a deeper press compared to the quicker action of the WS Red.
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 Red comes in at $3.50 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 HMX 1989 linear switch is celebrated for its deep and thocky sound, characteristic of a classic mechanical keyboard experience. This auditory profile contributes to a robust typing atmosphere, making it a favorite among gamers and typists who appreciate a more pronounced acoustic feedback. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red switch offers a sound signature that is familiar yet somewhat refined due to its unique material blend. The sound may not be as pronounced as the 1989, but it maintains a satisfying acoustic profile. It's important to note that the overall sound can be influenced by various factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps, so users might find variations in their auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the HMX 1989 switch delivers a substantial and weighty typing experience that enhances the tactile feedback. This switch caters to those seeking a more immersive experience while typing or gaming. Meanwhile, the WS Red boasts a 22mm double-stage spring, which adds a bouncy and responsive quality to each keystroke. Although the WS Red provides a heavier actuation force, it manages to retain a familiar and engaging feel, making it appealing to users who appreciate a bit more resistance during typing. Both switches provide substantial tactile feedback, though the feel differs, with the 1989 leaning towards a deeper sensation and the WS Red offering a lively bounce.
In conclusion, both the HMX 1989 and Wuque Studio WS Red linear switches present unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The sound of the 1989 is deeper and thockier, while the WS Red provides a more refined but familiar acoustic experience. In terms of feel, the 1989 offers a substantial weightiness, whereas the WS Red focuses on a bouncy, responsive typing experience. Ultimately, both switches promise satisfying results, but the choice hinges on whether you prioritize a heavier, thocky sound and feel or a more refined and bouncy typing sensation.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter touch and a deeper, thocky sound while typing, then the HMX 1989 is likely the better choice for you. Its medium-light actuation force of 53 grams makes it suitable for long gaming sessions or extended typing without fatigue, and the rich acoustic profile adds a unique sensory experience. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more substantial key feel and are looking for a switch that provides a bouncy response with a heavier actuation force, the WS Red might be your ideal switch. With a bottom-out force of 67 grams, the WS Red gives a satisfying heft that some users find reassuring, making it perfect for those who enjoy a tactile experience and don't mind exerting a bit more effort per keystroke. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize a responsive yet weighty typing feel or a deeper sound with a lighter touch.
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