HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile offer unique experiences for users with different preferences. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g is a linear switch that provides a clacky sound profile and a heavier typing experience, making it ideal for enthusiasts who enjoy a bright and vibrant typing feel. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch from Wuque Studio offers a tactile experience with a smooth and snappy bump, along with a neutral sound signature, catering to those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and qualities that appeal to different users, but it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
56g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 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
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile, one notable difference lies in the material used for the top housing. The Cloud - 63.5g utilizes nylon for its top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the plastic. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile features a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile with its stiffer plastic composition. This contrast highlights how different materials can impact the acoustics of a mechanical switch.
On the other hand, when looking at the bottom housing of both switches, we see a similarity in the choice of nylon material. Both the Cloud - 63.5g and the WS Light Tactile use nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile. This shared material choice demonstrates how certain properties of housing materials, such as sound absorption and tactile response, can be consistent across different switches even from different manufacturers.
It is important to note that the choice of top and bottom housing materials can have a significant impact on the overall typing experience with mechanical switches. While the Cloud - 63.5g offers a softer and more absorbent sound profile with its nylon top and bottom housings, the WS Light Tactile provides a crisper and more resonant sound with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. Understanding these material differences can help enthusiasts and users make informed decisions based on their preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Weight
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a higher actuation force of 56 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams, making the WS Light Tactile the lighter option. The bottom out force of the Cloud - 63.5g is also heavier at 63.5 grams, while the WS Light Tactile switch bottoms out at 50 grams, making it the lighter option in this category as well. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Cloud - 63.5g due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, while those who prefer a lighter keypress may find the WS Light Tactile more suitable. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience and feel of each switch.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Cloud - 63.5g has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the WS Light Tactile. A 0.1 mm may not seem like a significant difference, but it could affect the overall feel and response of the keyboard. Gamers who prioritize speed and quick response times may lean towards the Cloud - 63.5g with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more tactile and pronounced key press may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the WS Light Tactile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing styles.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cloud - 63.5g for $2.99.
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 Cloud - 63.5g switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and bright typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch offers a neutral sound signature, maintaining smoothness with a snappy tactile bump. Depending on personal preference, the Cloud - 63.5g switch may be preferable for those who enjoy a more assertive typing sound, while the WS Light Tactile switch may be better suited for those looking for a quieter typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Cloud - 63.5g switch is described as bouncy and creamy, offering a lively and smooth typing sensation. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch is characterized by its stepped and easy-to-press feel, providing a mild tactile feedback with minimal force required to activate the keys. Again, personal preference plays a significant role in choosing between these switches, as some may prefer the more pronounced tactile feel of the Cloud - 63.5g switch, while others may appreciate the light and effortless typing experience of the WS Light Tactile switch.
Overall, the Cloud - 63.5g switch and the WS Light Tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. If you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched typing sound with a bouncy and creamy feel, the Cloud - 63.5g switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile with a stepped and easy-to-press feel, the WS Light Tactile switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your individual typing style and preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a bright and clacky typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Cloud - 63.5g may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more neutral sound profile with a lighter bottom out force and a perceptible tactile bump, the WS Light Tactile switch is worth considering. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing style.