HMX Blue Topaz vs. Wuque Studio WS Brown
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the HMX Blue Topaz and the Wuque Studio WS Brown. The Blue Topaz stands out as a linear switch with smooth actuation and a lightweight feel, making typing a seamless experience. Its glittering housing adds a visual appeal, while the clacky sound signature adds an auditory delight. On the other hand, the WS Brown is a tactile switch that offers a perfect balance between responsiveness and comfort. With a medium-light actuation force, these switches ensure fatigue-free typing, accompanied by a familiar and pleasant sound experience. Each switch has its own unique qualities that cater to different 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
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
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 Blue Topaz and the Wuque Studio WS Brown both feature nylon as their bottom housing material, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. The use of nylon, a relatively softer plastic, allows for the absorption of more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastic housings. This similarity in bottom housing material means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either of these switches.
On the other hand, the Blue Topaz features a polycarbonate top housing, while the WS Brown utilizes a nylon top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the Blue Topaz results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffness that leads to a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the WS Brown's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, with the softer plastic absorbing more sound for a rounder sound. This difference in top housing material will impact the sound and feel of the switch when pressing down and letting go of a key.
Overall, while both switches share nylon as their bottom housing material, the use of different materials for their top housing sets them apart in terms of sound and feel. The Blue Topaz with its polycarbonate top housing will offer a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the WS Brown with its nylon top housing will provide a deeper and fuller sound experience. Despite these differences, users can still expect a high-quality typing experience from both switches, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing affecting the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the Blue Topaz is lighter overall. The Blue Topaz has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a lighter option for those who prefer a gentler typing experience. In contrast, the WS Brown has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 55 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. Those who enjoy a stronger push feel may find the WS Brown more suitable for a more substantial typing experience. In terms of weight, the Blue Topaz provides a lighter typing experience, which may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons, while the WS Brown offers a slightly heavier feel for those seeking a more pronounced keystroke sensation. Overall, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Blue Topaz being the lighter option and the WS Brown falling on the heavier end of the spectrum.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the Blue Topaz has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.9 mm compared to the WS Brown's 3.8 mm. Although the difference is minimal, it may still affect the overall typing experience for users who are sensitive to such nuances. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances popular among gamers for quicker response times. However, those who prefer a more tactile and pronounced keystroke may lean towards the Blue Topaz with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Blue Topaz has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Topaz for $3.49.
The Wuque Studio WS Brown 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch stands out for its clacky sound signature, providing users with a sharp and snappy auditory experience that is both pleasing and satisfying. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch's sound qualities remain unknown. Depending on factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used, both switches can deliver a similar typing experience in terms of sound if paired with the right components.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Blue Topaz is favored for its easy-to-press nature, offering a smooth actuation and lightweight feel that minimizes finger fatigue during long typing sessions. This switch is designed to be effortless and comfortable, providing a low-impact typing experience that is responsive and enjoyable. As for the WS Brown tactile switch, details on the feel remain unspecified, making it difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect.
In conclusion, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch excels in providing a smooth, light actuation force coupled with a clacky sound signature, offering users a delightful typing experience that combines both visual and auditory elements. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch focuses on a harmonious balance between responsiveness and comfort, although information on its sound and feel characteristics is limited. Ultimately, both switches have their unique qualities, and choosing between the two would depend on personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, consider the factors of actuation force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter actuation force at 48 grams and enjoy a smooth and easy-to-press typing experience with a distinctive clacky sound, the Blue Topaz switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher actuation force at 55 grams and value a harmonious balance between responsiveness and comfort, along with a familiar and delightful typing sound, the WS Brown switch is a great option. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preference for actuation force, typing feel, and typing sound, so choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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