HMX Cheese vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese 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 Cheese and the Wuque Studio WS Red both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The HMX Cheese is renowned for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, with an ultra-lightweight design that sets it apart from the majority of switches on the market. On the other hand, the WS Red stands out for its bouncy and responsive typing feel, thanks to a 22mm double-stage spring, and a heavier actuation force that provides a satisfying weight to each keystroke. Both switches offer distinct sound signatures, with the Cheese providing a clacky, poppy, and crispy sound, while the WS Red retains a classic material blend for a familiar 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
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-staged spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the HMX Cheese and the Wuque Studio WS Red feature nylon top and bottom housings, which are classic switch housing materials known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall. This similarity in housing materials between the two switches suggests that they may deliver a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
However, even though both the Cheese and the WS Red utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, the specific design and construction of each switch may still result in subtle differences in sound and typing feel. The bottom housing of a switch often has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed, while the top housing may influence the sound when a key is released. These nuances in housing design could potentially set the HMX Cheese and the Wuque Studio WS Red apart in terms of the typing experience they offer to users.
Overall, while the HMX Cheese and the Wuque Studio WS Red may share similar nylon housing materials, it's important to consider how the overall design and construction of each switch can influence the typing experience. Differences in housing shape, thickness, and other factors may lead to subtle variations in sound and feel when typing on these switches. By considering these details, users can make a more informed decision about which switch is best suited to their preferences and typing style.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it is clear that the Cheese switch is lighter in both aspects. The Cheese has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the WS Red has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy. This means that the Cheese switch would be preferred by those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the WS Red switch would be more suited for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel with a stronger push. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular in the keyboard market, particularly among gamers seeking faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may be noticeable to some users. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the HMX Cheese, while users who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes may find the WS Red more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 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 Cheese linear switch offers a unique and satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound profile, creating a distinct auditory experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch delivers a more traditional sound with a classic material blend, providing a familiar typing sound that is bouncy and responsive. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by external factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the HMX Cheese switch is praised for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, offering an ultra-light feel that is lighter than the majority of switches on the market. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Red switch features a heavier actuation force with a 22mm double-stage spring, giving each keystroke a satisfying and substantial weight. The feel of each switch plays a crucial role in the overall typing experience, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
In conclusion, while the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics, both switches provide users with high-quality typing experiences. Individuals looking for a smoother and lighter feel with a unique sound signature may prefer the HMX Cheese switch, while those seeking a more traditional tactile experience with a heavier touch may lean towards the WS Red switch. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences and typing habits.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to deciding between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, consider the bottom out force that best suits your typing preferences. If you prefer a lighter touch with a smoother typing experience and a unique sound profile, the HMX Cheese switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force that provides a more substantial typing feel and a classic sound signature, the Wuque Studio WS Red switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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