HMX Blue Topaz vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, switch selection can significantly impact your typing experience, and two popular options are the HMX Blue Topaz and the Wuque Studio WS POM+. The Blue Topaz linear switch distinguishes itself with its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making every keystroke effortlessly enjoyable. Its striking housing, infused with glitter, offers both a visually appealing aesthetic and a clacky sound signature for users who appreciate auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the WS POM+ presents a unique all-POM composition, providing a satisfying "thock" sound with each keystroke, complemented by an exceptionally smooth and buttery typing experience. Each switch caters to different preferences: the Blue Topaz for those who enjoy a lively auditory experience and an easy-to-press feel, while the WS POM+ appeals to users looking for a deep, rich sound and a more refined tactile sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
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
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials employed in the HMX Blue Topaz and Wuque Studio WS POM+ mechanical switches offer intriguing contrasts in both sound profile and tactile feedback. The Blue Topaz features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffer plastic composition that delivers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This material’s translucency enhances RGB lighting effects, making it visually appealing in setups that prioritize aesthetics. In contrast, the WS POM+ utilizes a POM top housing, known for producing a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both switches provide distinct auditory experiences, the Blue Topaz leans towards clarity and brightness due to its polycarbonate top, whereas the WS POM+ favors a richer and warmer sound due to the characteristics of POM.
When examining the bottom housings, both switches present differences that ripple through the overall typing experience. The Blue Topaz's nylon bottom housing contributes to a sound profile that is deep and full, as nylon absorbs more sound waves compared to harder materials like polycarbonate. This results in a more rounded auditory experience. On the other hand, the WS POM+ incorporates a POM bottom housing that also offers muted and pleasantly rounded sound. Interestingly, both bottom housings aim for a deeper sound profile, but the Blue Topaz achieves this through a classic nylon composition, while the WS POM+ relies solely on the distinctive acoustic properties of POM.
Ultimately, the combination of the different top and bottom housings in these switches leads to nuanced sound profiles and tactile experiences that cater to varied preferences. The HMX Blue Topaz achieves a unique blend of clarity and depth from its polycarbonate top and nylon bottom, which allows each key press to deliver a crisp release and a fuller bottom-out feel. Meanwhile, the WS POM+ creates its captivating auditory experience with POM for both the top and bottom housings, ensuring an overall consistent and deeper sound. If both switches are used in a typing setup, they will offer differing yet satisfying auditory results, catering to enthusiasts who enjoy exploring distinct sound signatures in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The comparison between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch reveals notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces, which contribute to their unique typing experiences. The Blue Topaz features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer less resistance during typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the WS POM+ switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, falling into a medium-light category. This distinction means that while the Blue Topaz is better suited for prolonged use due to its lighter touch, the WS POM+ offers a more substantial push feel for those who enjoy a stronger keypress sensation. Thus, for typists seeking comfort and endurance, the Blue Topaz would be the preferable choice, whereas the WS POM+ would cater to users who appreciate a more pronounced tactile feedback. Overall, the difference in actuation and bottom out forces indicates that the Blue Topaz is the lighter option, while the WS POM+ is the heavier one.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, we see that the Blue Topaz features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the WS POM+ has a slightly shorter distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Blue Topaz the longer of the two switches. For users who favor a more responsive feel, the shorter travel distance of the WS POM+ could be appealing, especially for gaming applications where quick response times are critical. However, those who appreciate a more substantial depth in their keystrokes may prefer the HMX Blue Topaz for its greater travel distance, as it provides a more pronounced tactile feedback. Thus, while both switches cater to different preferences, the choice ultimately depends on whether one values responsiveness or depth in their 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 POM+ comes in at $3.90 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 Blue Topaz linear switch has a distinctly clacky sound signature that produces a sharp and snappy auditory feedback with each keystroke. This crisp and bright sound enhances the experience, providing a satisfying auditory response that can be quite addictive for typists who appreciate a more expressive auditory profile. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch is characterized by its deep, satisfying "thock" sound. This sound is more subdued compared to the clacky nature of the Blue Topaz, offering a warmer auditory experience that many users find grounding and reassuring. The choice between the two will largely come down to personal preference regarding the sound they wish to hear when typing.
When it comes to feel, the Blue Topaz linear switch excels with its lightweight and easy-to-press design. The gentle resistance during key presses makes them effortless to activate, which can significantly reduce finger fatigue during long typing sessions. This responsive and low-impact feel enhances the overall typing comfort and experience, allowing users to type quickly and efficiently. Conversely, the subjective feel of the WS POM+ linear switch is not specified, leaving some uncertainty on how it compares directly with the Blue Topaz. However, given that both are linear switches, it is likely that they will share a smooth keypress experience, but specifics on actuation force and resistance remain unknown.
In conclusion, both the HMX Blue Topaz and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches cater to different auditory preferences, with the former offering a clacky sound and the latter delivering a deeper “thock.” On the feel front, the Blue Topaz stands out with its lightweight and effortless actuation, although information on the WS POM+ is lacking in that respect. For those drawn to sound, the Blue Topaz will appeal more if a bright, sharp sound is desired; however, those who appreciate a deeper sound may lean towards the WS POM+. Ultimately, if you prefer a light, smooth, and tactile typing experience, you may find that both switches deliver satisfactory results, albeit with different auditory characteristics.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch depends on your personal preferences and intended usage. If you value a light, effortless typing experience with a delightful clacky sound, the Blue Topaz is an excellent option, particularly if you engage in long typing sessions or enjoy a more engaging auditory feedback. Its 48-gram bottom out force makes it very easy to press, which can reduce finger fatigue and enhance your comfort. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch that provides a deeper, more satisfying "thock" sound signature, the WS POM+ would be the better choice for you. With its 55-gram actuation force, it strikes a nice balance between smoothness and feedback, making it ideal for those who appreciate a bit more resistance while typing. Both switches offer unique experiences—choose the one that aligns best with your typing style, whether that's the lightweight and clacky nature of the Blue Topaz or the solid, thocky experience of the WS POM+.
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