HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves choosing between options that cater to different typing preferences and acoustic experiences. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g is a linear switch renowned for its heavier actuation force and clacky sound profile, making it an appealing choice for users seeking a bright and engaging typing experience. Those who enjoy a bouncy, creamy feel while typing will likely appreciate the smoothness of the Cloud switch, which delivers both auditory and tactile satisfaction. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Pearl offers a distinctive typing experience, utilizing ball-bearings to minimize friction during keystrokes for an incredibly smooth feel. With a medium-high pitched sound signature, the WS Pearl may attract those looking for a quieter yet still responsive experience. Both switches have their unique advantages that cater to different user preferences, yet a deeper exploration into their individual characteristics will help you determine the best switch for your needs. Let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
56g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
16mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl, both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, leading to many similarities in their typing experiences. Nylon is renowned in the mechanical keyboard community for its properties that enhance the acoustic profile of switches. With its relatively softer nature, nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This shared characteristic means that both the Cloud - 63.5g and the WS Pearl will likely offer a pleasantly muted sound with a round timbre, appealing to users seeking a more subdued auditory experience.
The uniformity in material choice also means that the tactile feedback and overall feel of both switches will be quite comparable. With both featuring nylon for both the top and bottom housings, the impact of the key press feels cohesive throughout the entire switch actuation. Since the bottom housing predominantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing greatly affects the sound upon key release, users will find that both switches provide a harmonious typing experience. The softness of nylon in both house types ensures that even the bottom-out sounds maintain a level of depth, contributing to an overall satisfying interaction.
While there could be variances in design, weight, or spring characteristics that might differentiate the user's experience, the fundamental similarities in housing materials ensure that both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl deliver a similar tactile and auditory experience. Users can expect to encounter a comfortable typing sensation complemented by a rich sound profile that is characteristic of nylon-based switches. This commonality underlines the merits of nylon housing in providing balanced performance, setting a similar stage for typing satisfaction across both switch types.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom-out forces emerge, influencing their suitability for various users. The Cloud switch boasts an actuation force of 56 grams and a bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the WS Pearl is significantly lighter, with an actuation force of just 30 grams and a bottom-out force of 58 grams, placing it in the medium range. These differences indicate that users who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions may gravitate towards the WS Pearl, while those who appreciate a stronger push feel and more resistance during keystrokes might favor the Cloud switch. Overall, the Cloud switch offers a heavier typing experience, making it suitable for those who enjoy tactile feedback, whereas the WS Pearl provides a more effortless typing action, perfect for prolonged use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, there is a notable difference. The Cloud switch features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, which provides a more pronounced feel when pressing down, making it appealing for users who favor a deeper keypress. In contrast, the WS Pearl has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, catering to those who prefer quicker responsiveness and a less abrupt experience. As shorter travel distances are favored by gamers for speed, the Pearl may be the better choice for rapid gameplay. Ultimately, if you prefer a switch with more depth, the longer travel distance of the Cloud will suit you better, while the WS Pearl offers a slightly more responsive feel due to its shorter travel distance.
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 Pearl comes in at $6.00 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 Cloud - 63.5g switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched auditory signature. This sharp and snappy sound profile offers a crisp, bright, and percussive experience that can be quite satisfying for those who enjoy pronounced aural feedback from their keyboard. The lively acoustics cater to enthusiasts who appreciate a more engaging auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, while the WS Pearl doesn't have a detailed description of its sound profile, it is noted to have a medium-high pitched sound signature. This suggests a balance that may not be as sharp or clacky as the HMX Cloud, but likely maintains a lively character of its own. Regardless, the overall sound experience can vary based on the keyboard's construction, keycap materials, and other factors.
In terms of feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g is characterized by its bouncy and creamy sensations. The bounciness allows for a spring-like feedback that enhances the tactile experience, making each keystroke feel dynamic and responsive. The creamy aspect adds a layer of smoothness, creating a buttery typing experience that feels effortless, akin to gliding your fingers across the keyboard. Conversely, the WS Pearl features ball-bearings designed to reduce friction, resulting in an exceptionally smooth keystroke that feels almost surreal. While both switches prioritize smoothness, the HMX Cloud provides added bounce that contributes to a more tactile and lively feel, compared to the potentially more linear and frictionless experience offered by the WS Pearl.
Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g is ideal for those who enjoy a bright, engaging sound and a lively, responsive feel with a touch of creaminess. In contrast, the WS Pearl appeals to users seeking an exceptionally smooth, frictionless keystroke that maintains a unique auditory characteristic. While they provide different tactile and auditory experiences, both switches can deliver satisfying results, making either a valuable choice depending on your typing style and personal preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your choice between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences regarding typing experience and sound profile. If you enjoy a moderately heavy switch with a clacky and vibrant acoustic profile, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g is an excellent option. Its 63.5 grams of bottom-out force provide a satisfying bouncy feel, making it perfect for those who appreciate an engaging typing experience with a more pronounced auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you're seeking a uniquely smooth typing sensation coupled with a subtle, medium sound signature, the WS Pearl is a compelling alternative. The innovative ball-bearing mechanism of the WS Pearl significantly reduces friction, resulting in remarkably smooth keystrokes, ideal for users who prioritize a buttery typing experience over audible feedback. Ultimately, your decision should reflect how much you value sound, typing weight, and the tactile sensation of the switches, ensuring you choose the one that best complements your typing style and environment.
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