HMX Cheese vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, both the HMX Cheese and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ offer unique experiences for typists and gamers alike, despite being categorized as linear switches. The HMX Cheese switches are celebrated for their ultra-light feel, making them ideal for those who prefer a featherlight touch with each keystroke; they deliver a distinctively poppy and crispy sound signature that enhances the tactile experience and can be particularly appealing for fast-paced gaming. On the other hand, the WS POM+ switches are crafted entirely from POM material, providing a pleasingly deep "thock" sound and a buttery-smooth keystroke, making them a great choice for anyone seeking a more robust auditory feedback and a slightly firmer typing sensation. Both switches shine in their own right, catering to different preferences in sound and feel, but ultimately, selecting the best one for your keyboard can significantly enhance your overall typing experience. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
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-staged spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the Wuque Studio WS POM+, it is evident that both switches utilize different materials for their construction—nylon for the Cheese and POM (polyoxymethylene) for the WS POM+. The HMX Cheese features a nylon top and bottom housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is largely attributed to nylon's softer qualities, which allow it to absorb more sound and yield a duller, rounder auditory experience. The combination of these characteristics creates a wonderfully cohesive sound signature that many typists and gamers alike appreciate.
In contrast, the WS POM+ utilizes POM for its top and bottom housings. POM, known for its excellent durability and stiffness, also generates a sound profile that is deeper yet relatively muted. This slightly different acoustic characteristic may offer a more refined engagement while typing, owing to the inherent properties of the POM material, which still facilitates a pleasant auditory experience. Although the sound profiles of the two switches might differ due to the materials used, the distinction is primarily fine-tuned rather than drastically different, as both still aim for a rounded and satisfying sound.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches aim to provide a unique feel and sound during usage, suggesting that similar results can be achieved when focusing on the functional aspects of each design. The nylon housing of the Cheese tends to absorb sound effectively, while the POM material in the WS POM+ introduces clarity with its own balanced characteristics. As a result, when users switch between these two options, they may notice subtle variances in auditory feedback and tactile response, but both can deliver a gratifying typing experience that suits a range of preferences. This illustrates how individual housing materials can affect user experience while still delivering overall satisfaction in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Cheese switch boasts a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, especially suitable for extended periods of use. In contrast, the WS POM+ features a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, appealing to those who favor a more substantial feel during typing. This distinction means that the Cheese switch is the lighter option, while the WS POM+ is the heavier one. Consequently, if both switches had similar actuation and bottom out forces, typists could expect a comparable typing experience, but in this case, their varying weights and forces cater to different preferences in typing style and comfort.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Cheese switch the shorter option by 0.1 mm, which may provide a marginally quicker actuation suitable for gamers seeking faster response times. In contrast, the WS POM+ offers a travel distance that may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on their keys, giving a bit more depth to the experience. Both switches, however, are relatively close in distance, and users looking for a balance between speed and tactile feedback might find that they achieve similar performance from either option, particularly if they are accustomed to switches within this range.
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 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Cheese linear switch is celebrated for its clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, offering a vibrant auditory feedback that invigorates the typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ produces a deep, satisfying "thock" sound, which embodies a more subdued yet rich auditory experience. This distinction in sound profiles caters to different preferences: those seeking a lively and pronounced aural response may favor the Cheese, while those who prefer a more resonant and softer sound will likely appreciate the WS POM+.
In terms of feel, the HMX Cheese switch is noted for its unparalleled smoothness, which results in a gratifying typing experience devoid of scratchiness. With its ultra-lightweight design, it allows for rapid keystrokes, making it ideal for fast typists. Conversely, the WS POM+ is described as having a buttery-smooth keystroke, indicating a refined and effortless typing sensation that many enthusiasts may find appealing. While both switches prioritize a smooth action, the Cheese’s extreme lightness offers a distinct advantage for those who prefer minimal resistance when typing.
In conclusion, while both the HMX Cheese and WS POM+ linear switches strive for an exceptional typing experience, they cater to different tastes in sound and feel. The Cheese provides a lively clacky sound and ultra-light feel, ideal for fast-paced typing, whereas the WS POM+ delivers a deeper thock sound alongside a buttery smooth keystroke. Choosing between the two will ultimately depend on personal preference, with both options ensuring a high-quality experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the kind of experience you're seeking. If you favor an ultra-light touch and enjoy a lively, clacky sound with a satisfying feedback on each keystroke, the HMX Cheese switch will likely be your go-to choice. This switch is perfect for those who value speed and agility in their typing, making it an excellent option for gamers or fast typists who appreciate a light and effortless feel. Conversely, if you prefer a more substantial feel with a medium-light resistance, coupled with a deep, satisfying “thock” sound that enhances your typing experience, the WS POM+ switch might be more suitable for you. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a balance of smoothness and tactile feedback while typing, perfect for both casual use and a more deliberate typing pace. Ultimately, your decision should align with what brings you the most joy in your mechanical keyboard journey.
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