HMX Blue Topaz vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow 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 Yellow both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Blue Topaz is praised for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing users with a breezy typing experience. Its distinctive glitter housing not only catches the eye but also produces a clacky sound signature that adds to the overall enjoyment of typing. On the other hand, the WS Yellow boasts a timeless fusion of classic materials with cutting-edge engineering, offering a satisfying bounce and a familiar sound signature that enthusiasts love. With its lightweight design and effortless keystrokes, the WS Yellow provides a smooth and fluid typing experience. Each switch is categorized differently - the Blue Topaz as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky', while the WS Yellow is classified as 'Creamy', 'Mild', 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
53g
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 Yellow both showcase different housing materials for their switches. The Blue Topaz features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In comparison, the WS Yellow boasts a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. While both materials have distinct sound properties, the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference for the type of typing experience desired.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Blue Topaz and WS Yellow utilize nylon, which again offers the benefits of a deeper and fuller sound profile. The use of nylon in switch housings is considered a classic choice due to its ability to absorb sound and create a more rounded sound profile. This similarity in bottom housing material between the two switches suggests that users can expect a similar sound experience in terms of bottoming out the keys, with slight variations based on other factors such as keycap material and switch design.
While the housing materials of the Blue Topaz and WS Yellow differ in terms of their top housings, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The polycarbonate top housing of the Blue Topaz provides a sharper and more resonant sound, while the nylon top housing of the WS Yellow produces a deeper and fuller sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound aesthetics and typing feel, as both materials offer distinct advantages that can enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, whose actuation force is unknown. The bottom out force of the Blue Topaz is also lighter at 48 grams, while the WS Yellow has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 53 grams. This means that the Blue Topaz will require less force to register a keystroke and reach the bottom of the keypress compared to the WS Yellow. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Blue Topaz might be the better option, while those who prefer a slightly more substantial feel may lean towards the WS Yellow. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, so users can choose according to their preferences for typing comfort and feedback.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, slightly longer than the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch with a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The Blue Topaz may provide a slightly more substantial feel due to its longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a bit more depth when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the WS Yellow offers a slightly quicker keystroke, which may be preferred by those who value speed and responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and how each individual user values travel distance 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 Yellow 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
In terms of sound, the Blue Topaz linear switch offers a clacky sound that is sharp and snappy, providing a crisp and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the sound of the WS Yellow linear switch is not explicitly described, so it may offer a different sound profile that would need to be tested in person to compare. Both switches' sound profiles are affected by factors such as the keyboard they are installed in and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Blue Topaz linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering minimal resistance during key presses and requiring light force to activate. This results in a typing experience that is effortless and comfortable, reducing fatigue during long typing sessions. In contrast, the WS Yellow linear switch is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience thanks to potential factory lubrication or specific materials used. This switch also provides a mild and polished feel, ensuring a refined and sleek typing experience.
Overall, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch stands out for its smooth actuation, lightweight feel, and clacky sound signature, providing a delightful typing experience for users who appreciate these qualities. The Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, on the other hand, offers a blend of classic materials and modern engineering, delivering a satisfying bounce and potentially creamy typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, and choosing between them would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics. If a user prefers a light and smooth typing experience with a clacky sound, the Blue Topaz would be a great choice, while those seeking a creamy and mild typing feel may opt for the WS Yellow.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, you should consider the following factors. If you prefer a smoother actuation and lighter feel with a distinctive glittery housing and clacky sound, the Blue Topaz would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a double-stage spring for a delightful typing experience, a satisfying bounce, and a familiar sound signature, the WS Yellow may be more suitable. Additionally, if you appreciate an easy-to-press switch with minimal force required, the Blue Topaz is ideal, whereas if you prefer a creamy, mild, and polished typing experience, the WS Yellow is the way to go. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what kind of typing experience you are looking for.
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