HMX Cheese vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch offer distinct experiences for users. The HMX Cheese switch is praised for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, along with a satisfying clacky sound signature that is lighter than most switches on the market. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch maintains smoothness with a noticeable tactile bump, providing a snappy typing experience with a neutral sound profile. While the Cheese switch excels in lightness and crispiness, the WS Light Tactile switch offers a tactile feedback that is easy to press. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
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-staged spring
Spring
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile are quite different in terms of the materials used. The Cheese features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic absorbing more sound. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials have their own unique qualities, the polycarbonate top housing of the WS Light Tactile is more likely to be used in switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency, showcasing its versatility.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the HMX Cheese and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile feature nylon. This classic switch housing material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound. Although both switches share the same bottom housing material, the overall sound and feel of the switches may still differ due to the contrasting top housing materials they utilize. The nylon bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will be apparent in both switches.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the HMX Cheese and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile result in distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences for users. While the Cheese's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, the WS Light Tactile's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. The choice of housing material, whether nylon or polycarbonate, plays a significant role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switch. Despite sharing the same nylon bottom housing, the unique characteristics of the top housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience of each switch.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, we find that both switches are relatively light in terms of force required for key presses. The Cheese has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the WS Light Tactile has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches provide a smooth and easy typing experience, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter key press. However, the Cheese switch is slightly lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the WS Light Tactile switch. For those who prefer a softer and more effortless typing experience, the Cheese switch may be the better option. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch offers a slightly firmer and more substantial typing feel, making it ideal for users who prefer a bit more resistance in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's personal preference for key press weight.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the WS Light Tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cheese switch. The shorter travel distance of the Cheese switch may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers, while the longer travel distance of the WS Light Tactile switch may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for travel distance and how it affects your typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.79.
The Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile comes in at $4.20 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 Cheese linear switch offers a distinct clacky, poppy, and crispy sound that many users find satisfying. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile, making it a versatile option suitable for a wide range of users and environments. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference, with the Cheese switch offering a more unique and pronounced sound while the WS Light Tactile switch provides a more understated and adaptable auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the HMX Cheese linear switch is known for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, without specific descriptors provided for tactile feedback. Conversely, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch is described as stepped and easy-to-press, offering a mild tactile bump with gentle resistance that enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Depending on whether the user prefers a linear typing experience or a subtle tactile feedback, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Overall, both the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch bring their own strengths to the table in terms of sound and feel. The Cheese switch excels in providing a distinct and satisfying sound, while the WS Light Tactile switch offers a versatile and comfortable typing experience with its stepped and easy-to-press tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and typing feel, ensuring that users can find the perfect match for their individual needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, you should consider the typing experience you prefer. If you value a light and smooth typing experience with a satisfying clacky sound, then the HMX Cheese switches would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile bump with a neutral sound profile and easy-to-press keys, then the WS Light Tactile switches would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for. Choose wisely to enhance your overall typing experience.
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