HMX Game1989 vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly affect your typing and gaming experience, and two noteworthy linear options are the HMX 1989 and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear. The HMX 1989 is celebrated for its deep and thocky feel, making it a top choice for gamers and typists who appreciate a rich, tactile feedback with each keystroke. This switch is designed for those who revel in a more immersive auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear offers a unique appeal by seamlessly blending tranquility with precision. Its ingeniously designed stem railings reduce noise levels significantly, making it an ideal choice for office environments or shared spaces where minimizing sound is a priority. Unlike traditional silent switches, it avoids silicone dampeners, ensuring a distinctive typing sensation without the cushioned feel. Both switches cater to different preferences—one emphasizing auditory feedback and deeper tactile response, while the other prioritizes a serene typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX 1989 and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches demonstrate distinct characteristics that influence their sound profiles and tactile feedback. The 1989 features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its rigidity and transparency. This stiffness contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile that resonates clearly, especially when combined with RGB lighting due to the material's translucency. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear utilizes a nylon top housing, which yields a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a rounder acoustic environment. Thus, the differences between the two housing types have significant implications for the auditory experience during typing.
When we turn our attention to the bottom housings of both switches, we find that the HMX 1989 also employs nylon, similar to the WS Silent Linear. The use of nylon in the bottom housing for both switches offers a more consistent acoustic quality—specifically yielding a richer and deeper sound profile. As such, while the 1989's upper housing creates a clearer resonance, its nylon base ensures a cohesive sound experience upon bottoming out. The WS Silent Linear reinforces this experience by maintaining the same softer nylon material on both the top and bottom, culminating in a more enveloped auditory experience that complements the silent linear feel.
In summary, the differences in housing materials between the HMX 1989 and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches result in varied acoustic outcomes. The polycarbonate top of the 1989 is responsible for brighter sound attributes when the key is released, while the nylon bottom harmonizes this with a fuller tone upon bottoming out. Alternatively, the WS Silent Linear's dual application of nylon leads to a more muted and harmonious acoustic signature throughout. If aiming for similar results, users can manipulate switch configuration or personal preference in key feedback, focusing on how the contribution of the bottom housing accents the overall typing experience in both designs.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch with the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge, impacting user experience. The HMX 1989 features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear does not specify an actuation force but has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy range. Consequently, users looking for a lighter typing experience suitable for extended use, such as during long work hours or gaming sessions, may prefer the HMX 1989. On the other hand, gamers or typists who enjoy a stronger, more substantial push feel might gravitate towards the WS Silent Linear due to its heavier bottom out force, which suggests a more pronounced tactile feedback. Overall, while the HMX 1989 offers a lighter actuation and bottom-out experience, the WS Silent Linear caters to those needing a more formidable resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch, it is clear that the HMX 1989 offers a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Silent Linear has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference in travel distance can significantly influence the typing experience. The HMX 1989's 4 mm travel distance provides a more traditional and deeper feel, which can be preferable for users who enjoy a more substantial tactile feedback when typing. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear with its 3.5 mm travel distance caters to those who favor quicker actuation and responsiveness, characteristics often sought after by gamers. Consequently, if you are looking for a more responsive experience, the shorter 3.5 mm distance of the WS Silent Linear may be more appealing, while those who appreciate a heftier key press might gravitate towards the HMX 1989.
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 Silent Linear 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
The HMX 1989 linear switch is renowned for its deep and thocky sound signature, reminiscent of classic mechanical keyboard experiences, making it an enticing option for those who appreciate a rich auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch is designed with noise reduction in mind, characterized by its neutral, muted, and subdued qualities. It almost entirely eliminates the traditional clack associated with mechanical switches, producing a softer sound that makes it suitable for office settings where discretion is required. Both switches will inherently provide different auditory experiences; the 1989 offers a pronounced thock that enthusiasts might yearn for, while the WS Silent Linear ensures a quieter and more refined typing environment.
When it comes to feel, the HMX 1989 is celebrated for a satisfying element that resonates with typing enthusiasts and gamers alike, though its specific tactile characteristics are not detailed. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear switches offer a mild typing experience, providing a gentler sensation that is designed to be approachable for a wide range of users. This makes the WS Silent Linear ideal for prolonged usage in professional environments, while the 1989 may appeal more to those seeking a robust sensation under their fingers. While the exact differences in the feel of the 1989 switch remain unspecified, it is clear that it aims for a more pronounced performance, whereas the WS caters to those valuing a more subdued interaction.
In conclusion, the HMX 1989 linear switch delivers an evocative auditory experience marked by deep and thocky sounds, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear focuses on minimizing noise and providing a more subdued environment. In terms of feel, the 1989 likely offers a more satisfying feedback for enthusiasts, whereas the WS Silent Linear promotes a gentle, mild sensation suitable for casual and office use. As a newcomer, your choice between these switches will largely depend on whether you prioritize auditory feedback or a quieter, gentler typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX 1989 Linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch ultimately comes down to your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prefer a switch that offers a medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams with a deeper and thockier performance, the HMX 1989 is likely a better fit for you. It provides a unique tactile experience that is particularly rewarding for gaming, where quick responsiveness and satisfying bottom-outs can enhance your gameplay. On the other hand, if your environment demands quieter operation, such as in an office setting, the WS Silent Linear is designed specifically for that need. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, paired with a muted and subdued sound profile, ensures a less intrusive typing experience while maintaining excellent responsiveness. The WS Silent Linear allows you to enjoy the precision of mechanical switches without disturbing others around you. Thus, assess your typical usage—be it gaming or office work—and choose the switch that best aligns with your comfort and sound preferences.
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