HMX Blue Topaz vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Blue Topaz and the Wuque Studio WS Onion are two popular options with distinct characteristics. The Blue Topaz linear switch stands out for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making typing a breeze for users. Its glittery housing adds a touch of visual appeal, while the clacky sound signature creates an engaging auditory experience. On the other hand, the WS Onion linear switch offers a buttery smooth keystroke feel with a crisp, responsive touch and a neutral sound profile. While the Blue Topaz is easy to press and clacky, the WS Onion is categorized as neutral, buttery, and polished. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
WS CL635 Gold Plated Stainless Spring
Housing materials
The HMX Blue Topaz and the Wuque Studio WS Onion both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate plastic enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the overall design. With both switches utilizing polycarbonate in their top housings, users can expect similar sound characteristics and performance in this aspect.
While the Blue Topaz utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic absorbing more sound, the WS Onion also features a nylon bottom housing with the same characteristics. Typing on switches that use nylon materials can create a duller and rounder sound compared to switches made from harder plastics. This difference in bottom housing material between the Blue Topaz and the WS Onion may result in slight variations in sound characteristics and typing experience, but overall, both switches deliver a similar deep and full sound profile.
With the top and bottom housing materials playing a crucial role in the sound produced by mechanical switches, the split between the polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Blue Topaz and WS Onion affects the overall performance of the switches. The bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel when typing on the switches, while the top housing material impacts the sound when releasing a key. Despite the difference in bottom housing material between the two switches, users can still expect comparable typing experiences with both the Blue Topaz and the WS Onion in terms of sound quality and overall performance.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, it is evident that there are notable differences between the two. The Blue Topaz has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it more ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time. On the other hand, the WS Onion has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams, although the actuation force is not specified. This makes the WS Onion a better option for those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences regarding typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch offers a travel distance of 3.9 mm, slightly shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch. The Blue Topaz provides a quicker response time, making it ideal for gamers looking for speed and agility in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the WS Onion offers a slightly deeper keystroke, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, catering to the current trend of compact and responsive key switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for either a shorter, faster keystroke or a slightly longer, more tactile typing experience.
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 Onion has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Onion for $5.53.
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 Blue Topaz linear switch offers a distinctive clacky sound that is sharp, snappy, and pleasing to the ears, providing users with an auditory delight. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch provides a neutral sound profile that is moderate and suitable for a variety of uses, ensuring a versatile sound experience for users. Depending on personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard, you can expect either a more pronounced and satisfying sound with the Blue Topaz or a subtle and balanced sound with the WS Onion.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering a gentle resistance that requires minimal force to activate, resulting in a comfortable and effortless typing experience. Conversely, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch is known for its buttery smooth keystroke feel, providing users with a seamless and uniform typing sensation that is both satisfying and polished. Whether you prefer a light and responsive typing feel with the Blue Topaz or a smooth and refined typing experience with the WS Onion, both switches offer a high level of comfort and usability for extended typing sessions.
Overall, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the Blue Topaz offers a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, the WS Onion provides a neutral sound and a buttery smooth feel. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, you can achieve similar satisfying results with either switch, as they both excel in providing a premium typing experience that is smooth, responsive, and enjoyable for users. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, consider your preferences for keyboard feel and sound. If you prefer a light and easy-to-press switch with a clacky sound profile, the Blue Topaz may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a buttery smooth keystroke feel and a neutral sound profile, the WS Onion may be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and which switch characteristics align best with your typing style.
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