HMX Game1989 vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference plays a significant role, especially when comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch with the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch. The HMX 1989 is celebrated for its deep and thocky feel, making it a perfect choice for gamers who appreciate smooth, uninterrupted keystrokes and a satisfying acoustic signature that enhances the immersion of gameplay. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch caters to professionals or those in shared spaces, offering medium tactile feedback while maintaining a remarkably quiet typing experience—ideal for office environments where noise can be disruptive. Its innovative design, featuring precision-engineered stem railings, highlights the WS Silent Tactile’s ability to provide both a serene environment and crisp responsiveness, distinguishing it from traditional silent switches. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for 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
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX 1989 and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile, a clear distinction emerges primarily from the materials used in their top housings. The HMX 1989 employs polycarbonate, known for its stiffness and translucency, which not only contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile but also enhances RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile features a nylon top housing that is softer, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its sound-absorbing properties. This fundamental difference means that while the 1989 produces a more resonant and bright auditory experience, the WS Silent Tactile caters to those seeking a muted and rounded sound, reflecting the characteristics of the materials used in their respective top housings.
On the bottom housing front, the HMX 1989 and the WS Silent Tactile share a commonality with their use of nylon. Both switches encapsulate the classic essence of nylon bottom housings, which provide a deeper and fuller typing experience. The nylon's capacity for sound absorption enriches the tactile feedback when bottoming out, creating a tonal harmony across the two switches despite the differences present in their top configurations. This similarity in bottom housing means that when typing, users will encounter a consistent and rounded auditory experience, emphasizing the impact of the bottom housing during usage, regardless of the distinct characteristics introduced by the top housings.
In summary, the different materials used in the top housings of the HMX 1989 and the WS Silent Tactile create contrasting auditory profiles, with the former providing crisper highs and the latter delivering fuller, deeper tones. However, the shared nylon material in the bottom housings ensures a unified experience in terms of sound absorption and feedback when keys are pressed down. Consequently, while users may enjoy different sound profiles when engaging with each switch's top housing, the foundational tactile experience remains similar due to the nylon bottoms, bridging the gap between these two distinct mechanical switches.
Weight
The HMX 1989 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch offer distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to varied preferences among typists and gamers. The HMX 1989 features a medium-light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it suitable for those who favor a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile switch does not specify an actuation force, but it has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This indicates that while the HMX 1989 is the lighter option, providing a more effortless typing experience, the WS Silent Tactile's characteristics lend themselves to a more substantial feel under the fingers, appealing to users who prefer a firmer response. Overall, the actuation force of the HMX 1989 allows for lighter keystrokes, while the WS Silent Tactile's bottom out force suggests a robust typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch, we find that the HMX 1989 has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Silent Tactile has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the HMX 1989 provides a deeper keypress experience, which can be ideal for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile's 3.5 mm travel distance caters to those who favor a quicker response time, common among gamers and users looking for speed in their keystrokes. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Wuque Studio switch might be the better choice. However, if you appreciate a fuller typing depth, the HMX 1989 is the superior option, providing the longer travel distance of the two.
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 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 linear switch is characterized by its deep and thocky profile, which is particularly appealing to those who enjoy a robust auditory experience when typing. This sound can evoke satisfaction and enhance the tactile engagement associated with each keystroke. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch presents a neutral sound, making it less intrusive and more suitable for environments where noise levels need to be minimized, such as offices. Though both switches will produce distinct auditory experiences, the 1989’s thocky resonance caters to enthusiasts seeking an expressive sound, while the WS Silent Tactile prioritizes serene typing.
Regarding the feel of each switch, the HMX 1989 delivers a smooth linear experience that often appeals to gamers and typists who prefer uninterrupted keystrokes without tactile bumps. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile is designed with a medium tactile feedback, being labeled as both invigorating and accented. This means it provides a satisfying tactile bump without being overly harsh, making it versatile for both typing and gaming scenarios. The tactile sensation of the WS is designed to be engaging yet not overwhelming, creating an inviting experience for users who appreciate a more balanced and mild tactile feedback.
Overall, when deciding between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch, you will find two distinctly different experiences that cater to varying preferences. The HMX 1989 excels in delivering a deep, thocky sound and a smooth typing experience for those who enjoy an expressive auditory engagement. Meanwhile, the WS Silent Tactile offers a quiet yet tactile typing option, making it ideal for professional settings while still preserving an immersive feel. Each switch serves its purpose effectively, allowing users to select based on their needs—the vibrant sound and linear smoothness of the 1989 versus the muted, tactile precision of the WS Silent Tactile.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch will largely depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you value a lighter actuation force and enjoy a deeper, “thocky” sound profile, especially for gaming or a more relaxed typing experience, the HMX 1989 is an excellent choice. Its medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams allows for quick and effortless key presses, making it ideal for fast-paced gaming engagements or long typing sessions where comfort is key. On the other hand, if you require a more distinguished tactile feedback in a quieter environment—such as an office setting—then the WS Silent Tactile would serve you better. With its medium-heavy actuation force of 63.5 grams and innovative design that minimizes noise while providing a satisfying tactile experience, this switch allows you to enjoy precise feedback without disturbing those around you. Ultimately, consider what type of environment you'll be using your keyboard in and whether you prioritize a lighter touch or a more pronounced tactile feel. Your choice will dictate your overall satisfaction and typing experience, tailoring your mechanical keyboard setup to fit your unique requirements.
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