HMX Cloud - 50g vs. Wuque Studio WS Dash
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the merits of different switch types to suit their typing preferences. The HMX Cloud - 50g, a linear switch, is celebrated for its lighter actuation force and clacky sound profile, delivering a bright and engaging typing experience. Ideal for individuals who enjoy a smooth keystroke without the tactile bump, this switch promises a silky feel that can make long typing sessions enjoyable. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Dash, a Hall Effect switch, reimagines the magnetic mechanism of switches with a refined touch, reminiscent of the beloved Magnetic Jade. This switch offers a similarly bright and clacky audio signature but combines the advantages of magnetic sensing with an impressively smooth stroke, appealing to users seeking durability and uniqueness in their typing experience. Both switches bring their own distinct advantages to the table; the Cloud - 50g caters to those who prefer a traditional mechanical feel, while the WS Dash introduces an innovative twist with its Hall Effect technology. 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
42g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Cloud - 50g and the Wuque Studio WS Dash are notable mechanical switches that utilize different materials for their top housings, leading to distinct sound profiles. The Cloud - 50g features a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon enables it to absorb more sound, resulting in a rounder audio experience. In contrast, the WS Dash employs a polycarbonate top housing that delivers a sharper and crisper sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate allows it to resonate more clearly, crafting an experience that is different from the cozy, muted acoustics attributed to nylon. While both switches aim to provide satisfying auditory feedback, the choice of materials directly influences the nuances of sound and feedback that typists will experience.
On the other hand, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housings, as both utilize nylon material. This shared characteristic means that when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel during key presses, both the HMX Cloud - 50g and the WS Dash will deliver similar outcomes. The nylon bottom housing is responsible for absorbing sound and contributing to that familiar deeper acoustic response. Therefore, even though the top hulls of the two switches introduce different tonal qualities, the nylon bottom ensures a consistent base sound that both models will adhere to. This results in tactile feedback that feels cohesive despite the contrast presented by their top housings.
Ultimately, the combination of materials used in both the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Wuque Studio WS Dash creates a diverse typing experience, each appealing to different preferences among typists. While the Cloud - 50g may attract users looking for a softer, warmer sound due to its nylon top housing, the WS Dash will appeal to those who enjoy a brighter, more resonant feel thanks to its polycarbonate material. However, this divergent sound experience is balanced by the nylon bottom housing they both share, ensuring that they maintain some level of auditory consistency. Thus, despite their differences, users can expect satisfying similarities in the overall typing experience, particularly in the sound cascading from their bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, distinct differences emerge. The Cloud - 50g features an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a relatively light option. In contrast, the WS Dash has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams, which caters well to users who prefer a softer touch, but its bottom out force is 55 grams, indicating a firmer feel when fully pressed. Consequently, those who enjoy a lighter switch for extended typing and gaming sessions might lean towards the WS Dash for its lower actuation force. However, the heavier bottom out force of the WS Dash could provide a more substantial typing experience, appealing to users who prefer a stronger push. Overall, while the Cloud - 50g is heavier in actuation force, the WS Dash is the lighter option, making it ideal for those seeking comfort during prolonged use.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Cloud - 50g the longer of the two, providing a more pronounced tactile feedback that some users may prefer for a more deliberate keypress. In contrast, the WS Dash's shorter travel distance caters to those seeking quicker response times, making it a better fit for gamers who prioritize speed. While both switches provide unique tactile experiences, choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preference—those inclined towards a deeper feel may enjoy the Cloud - 50g, while those desiring rapid actuation may lean towards the WS Dash.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cloud - 50g 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 - 50g for $2.99.
The Wuque Studio WS Dash has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Dash for $7.49.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX Cloud - 50g switch delivers a clacky sound profile that many enthusiasts find appealing for its bright and vibrant auditory feedback. This quality can enhance the overall typing experience, providing a satisfying auditory reward for each keystroke. Similarly, the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch also boasts a bright and clacky sound signature, reflecting their shared goal of delivering an engaging acoustic environment. It’s important to remember that the sound of a switch can be influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps, so the ultimate auditory experience may vary based on individual setups.
When it comes to feel, both the Cloud - 50g and the WS Dash switches provide a silky smooth keystroke, allowing for a fluid and effortless typing experience. This smoothness is a key trait that many users cherish, as it minimizes friction and enables faster typing speeds. These switches, with their emphasis on a pleasant tactile feedback experience, will likely satisfy those who prioritize a seamless feel in their mechanical keyboards.
Overall, both the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Wuque Studio WS Dash share notable qualities that could make them appealing to newcomers exploring mechanical keyboard switches. Their clacky sound profiles and silky smooth keystrokes offer a delightful combination that can enhance typing enjoyment. While considering sound and feel, personal preferences and other external factors such as the keyboard build and keycap material will ultimately influence the final experience, making both switches viable options for those seeking an engaging keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, you should consider your typing preferences and the overall experience you want from your keyboard. If you favor a lighter tactile experience with a more pronounced, clacky sound profile, the Cloud - 50g is an excellent choice. It is ideal for those who enjoy a lively and engaging typing sound alongside a silky smooth feel, making it particularly appealing for general typing or gaming where quick key presses are essential. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation with a touch of refinement and appreciate the bright, clacky sound signature, the WS Dash would serve you well. This switch is perfect for users who value the unique characteristics of Hall Effect technology, providing a smooth keystroke with a more controlled typing experience. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your priorities in tactile feedback, sound, and the specific activities you engage in while using your mechanical keyboard.
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