HMX Blue Topaz vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch both offer unique features to enhance your typing experience. The Blue Topaz stands out for its smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing effortless keystrokes accompanied by a clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch boasts a profound tactile experience with a 70g bump, immersive resistance, and a "thocky" sound, making typing engaging and satisfying. While the Blue Topaz is easy to press and offers a visually and audibly pleasing experience, the WS Heavy Tactile switch is accentuated, bouncy, and invigorating, providing a different level of satisfaction. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.20 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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile offer distinct advantages in terms of sound profiles. The Blue Topaz's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature, which allows for clearer and more resonant sound. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound with its softer plastic composition. While both materials offer unique sound qualities, the polycarbonate top housing of the Blue Topaz may be more suitable for those looking for a sharper and more resonant sound, while the nylon top housing of the WS Heavy Tactile may appeal to those seeking a deeper and fuller sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Blue Topaz allows for translucency, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the WS Heavy Tactile may not offer the same level of visual appeal for those interested in customizable lighting options. However, both materials excel in providing a unique sound experience for users. The differences in sound profiles created by the housing materials of the Blue Topaz and the WS Heavy Tactile offer users the opportunity to choose a switch that best suits their preferences, whether they prioritize a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller sound.
While the Blue Topaz and the WS Heavy Tactile utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, both switches ultimately offer users a harmonious blend of sound characteristics. The split between the bottom and top housing materials allows for a comprehensive sound profile that encompasses both sharpness and depth. When typing on either switch, users can appreciate the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel, while also noticing the influence of the top housing on the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences in housing materials, both the Blue Topaz and the WS Heavy Tactile provide users with a well-rounded auditory experience that caters to various sound preferences.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 48 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a much heavier bottom out force of 70 grams. The Blue Topaz switch is more suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience and may benefit from longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch is better suited for those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces, with the Blue Topaz offering a lighter option and the WS Heavy Tactile providing a heavier alternative for a different typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. In this case, the WS Heavy Tactile has the shorter travel distance compared to the Blue Topaz. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. The difference in travel distance may result in a slightly quicker actuation for the WS Heavy Tactile, but the Blue Topaz offers a slightly deeper keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Heavy Tactile 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, both the Blue Topaz linear switch and the WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch are described as having a "clacky" sound, which produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This means that users can enjoy a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory experience with either switch. However, the WS Heavy Tactile switch also offers a "high-pitched" and "resonant" sound profile, providing a more immersive auditory experience compared to the Blue Topaz.
In terms of feel, the Blue Topaz linear switch is known for being easy to press, offering gentle resistance during key presses with minimal force required to activate. This lightweight feel enhances the typing experience by reducing finger fatigue and providing a responsive and low-impact typing feel. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch is described as having an "accented," "bouncy," "invigorating," "sharp," and "snappy" tactile feel. These qualities create a profound tactile experience with a 70g bump and immersive resistance, making typing engaging and satisfying for users who prefer a more tactile typing experience.
In conclusion, both the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While they both share a "clacky" sound profile, the WS Heavy Tactile switch provides a more diverse and immersive auditory experience with its "high-pitched" and "resonant" sound. Similarly, the Blue Topaz's easy-to-press feel contrasts with the WS Heavy Tactile's multi-faceted tactile experience, offering users the option to choose between a lightweight and smooth typing feel or a more pronounced and engaging tactile sensation. Ultimately, users can expect excellent performance and satisfaction from both switches, albeit catering to different preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, you should consider your preference for key feel and sound. If you prefer a light actuation force and smooth keystrokes with a clacky sound, the Blue Topaz might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy bump, immersive resistance, and a "thocky" sound, the WS Heavy Tactile switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what kind of typing experience you are seeking. Choose the switch that best fits your typing style and preferences.