HMX Blue Topaz vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Blue Topaz and the Wuque Studio WS Red both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Blue Topaz is a linear switch known for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing a comfortable typing experience with a clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the WS Red linear switch boasts a bouncy and responsive typing experience, thanks to its 22mm double-stage spring and heavier actuation force. While the Blue Topaz is ideal for those who prefer easy-to-press keys with a distinctive glittery housing, the WS Red caters to users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel. 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
67g
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
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Wuque Studio WS Red, it is evident that they both use different materials for their top housings. The Blue Topaz utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp and crisp sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the WS Red features a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While both materials have their unique qualities, the choice between a sharper sound from polycarbonate or a fuller sound from nylon ultimately depends on personal preference.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both the Blue Topaz and the WS Red opt for nylon. This choice creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches, as nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. The similarities in bottom housing materials between the two switches suggest that the typing experience in terms of sound and feel may be more alike than different. However, the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel should be noted, as this aspect may vary slightly between the Blue Topaz and the WS Red.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials for switches plays a significant role in the sound profile and typing experience. While the Blue Topaz and the WS Red differ in their top housing materials, with the former using polycarbonate and the latter using nylon, they both utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This difference in top housing may result in a sharper sound profile from the Blue Topaz and a fuller sound profile from the WS Red. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch have some noticeable differences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Blue Topaz has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the WS Red's unknown actuation force, making it more suitable for those who prefer a softer typing feel. On the other hand, the WS Red has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams compared to the Blue Topaz's 48 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference, with the Blue Topaz being lighter overall and the WS Red offering a heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, particularly among gamers seeking faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to everyone, but for those who value a more responsive feel, the WS Red may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a bit more depth in their key presses may find the slightly longer travel distance of the Blue Topaz to be more to their liking. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific feel that each user is looking for 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 Red 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 offers a clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and snappy noise with each keystroke. This adds a lively auditory element to typing sessions, enhancing the overall experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch does not have a specific sound description provided. However, with the classic material blend and double-stage spring, it is likely to produce a familiar and satisfying typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Blue Topaz linear switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate each key. This light actuation force results in effortless and comfortable typing, reducing finger fatigue during extended use. The WS Red linear switch, with its 22mm double-stage spring, offers a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force. This adds a touch of weight to each key press, providing a substantial and satisfying typing feel.
Overall, both the HMX Blue Topaz and Wuque Studio WS Red linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Blue Topaz excels in smooth actuation, lightweight feel, and a clacky sound signature, the WS Red stands out with its bouncy and responsive typing experience and heavier actuation force. Depending on whether you prioritize ease of typing or a more substantial feel, you can achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel with these distinct switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a light actuation force and a smooth, easy-to-press typing experience, the Blue Topaz may be the right choice for you. Its distinctive glitter housing and clacky sound signature provide a visually appealing and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing feel and a bouncy, responsive typing experience, the WS Red may be the better option. With its 22mm double-stage spring, this switch offers a familiar sound signature and a touch of weight to each keystroke. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound. Choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences for an optimal mechanical keyboard experience.
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