HMX Cloud - 50g vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g 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 Cloud - 50g and Wuque Studio WS Red offer distinct choices for enthusiasts, each catering to specific preferences in typing experience. The HMX Cloud - 50g is celebrated for its lighter actuation force and distinctive clacky sound profile, appealing to those who prefer a bright and airy typing experience. Its silky smooth feel enhances the tactile experience, making it an excellent choice for users looking for speed and comfort during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Red boasts a heavier actuation force, coupled with a bouncy and responsive feel thanks to its 22mm double-stage spring. This switch delivers a more substantial typing experience, maintaining a classic sound signature that adds to its tactile delight. Both switches have their own unique benefits—whether you lean towards the lighter, more playful nature of the Cloud - 50g or the robust and satisfying feedback of the WS Red. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 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
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Wuque Studio WS Red, it becomes evident that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, thereby aligning closely in their construction. The choice of nylon as a classic switch housing material plays a critical role in the auditory experience provided by each switch. The inherent softness of nylon contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing, as it absorbs more sound than harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound. This consistent use of nylon suggests that users of both switches can expect similarly rich acoustics during their typing experience.
Both the Cloud - 50g and the WS Red benefit from the sound-dampening properties of nylon throughout their entire housing. The full nylon design affects both the bottom and top housings symbiotically, meaning that the typing experience will maintain a consistent tonal quality regardless of which switch is in use. When a key is bottomed out, the nylon material in the bottom housing plays a significant role in the sound and feel; similarly, when releasing a key, the top housing contributes to the overall auditory feedback. Thus, users can anticipate an analogous sound profile with plenty of depth, reinforcing the idea that these switches, while perhaps differing in other mechanical aspects, harmonize well in their material attributes.
In conclusion, the identical use of nylon in both the HMX Cloud - 50g and the WS Red positions them as comparable choices for enthusiasts looking for quality typing experiences. The pressed keys’ qualities blend seamlessly between the top and bottom housings, ensuring a cohesive auditory feedback throughout the act of typing. This similarity fosters an appreciation for how housing materials not only define the acoustic character of switches but also influence the touch and overall user satisfaction. Therefore, regardless of the nuanced differences that might exist in other areas, the nylon construction is a strong unifier, promising an enriched typing experience for fans of either model.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it becomes evident that they cater to different user preferences. The Cloud - 50g has a relatively light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing sessions or gameplay. In contrast, the WS Red switch lacks a specified actuation force but features a significantly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a more substantial resistance that some users may find preferable for a firmer typing experience. Therefore, while the HMX Cloud - 50g is the lighter option overall, the WS Red provides a medium-heavy resistance that may appeal to those seeking a more pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, if you favor long-term comfort, the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Cloud - 50g are advantageous. Conversely, if you prefer a sturdier key press, the WS Red switch may better suit your needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, we observe a slight difference between the two. The Cloud - 50g features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the WS Red comes in at 3.8 mm. This makes the WS Red the shorter option by a mere 0.1 mm, which may result in quicker response times for gamers who prefer the more immediate feedback that shorter travel distances offer. However, for those who appreciate a more pronounced feel when pressing keys, the Cloud - 50g’s 3.9 mm travel distance offers a little more depth, which may be favored for a less abrupt experience. While both switches are relatively close in travel distance, selecting between them will ultimately depend on one's preference for responsiveness versus depth in keystrokes.
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 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Cloud - 50g switch produces a bright and clacky sound profile, suitable for enthusiasts who appreciate auditory feedback while typing. This makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic experience while using their keyboard. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red switch features a classic sound signature due to its 22mm double-stage spring. While it is not explicitly stated that the WS Red is clacky, it maintains a familiar auditory characteristic that is pleasant and somewhat subdued compared to the Cloud - 50g, resulting in subtle but satisfying sound with each keystroke. It's important to remember that the overall sound can also be influenced by the keycap material and the keyboard's construction.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cloud - 50g is known for its silky smooth actuation, which promotes effortless typing and a frictionless experience. This makes it appealing for users who value a seamless keystroke and might often type for extended durations. In contrast, the WS Red offers a heavier actuation force, which introduces a bouncy and responsive typing experience. This extra weight not only adds a substantial feel to each keystroke but also requires more intentional engagement, which many users may find satisfying for long typing sessions. These differences in actuation force and feedback might cater to different typing preferences, with the Cloud - 50g being more fluid and the WS Red providing a grounded response.
Overall, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different user preferences. The HMX Cloud - 50g excels in providing a bright, clacky sound and a smooth typing experience, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more vibrant auditory and tactile experience. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Red offers a more substantial feel and a classic sound profile that might appeal to those who prefer a heavier keystroke. Depending on your typing style and how you prioritize sound versus feel, either option can deliver a rewarding experience, but the nuances between the two will ultimately guide your choice in selecting the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you're drawn to a lighter switch that offers a bright, clacky typing experience and a silky smooth feel, then the Cloud - 50g might be the better fit for you. Its 50g actuation force allows for quicker and less fatigued typing, making it ideal for long typing sessions or for users who enjoy rapid keystrokes in games or coding. Conversely, if you prefer a more substantial typing experience with greater resistance, the WS Red switch, with its 67g bottom-out force, could be more satisfying. Its bouncy feel, contributed by the double-stage spring, not only adds a level of responsiveness but also creates a satisfying tactile experience for those who appreciate a little more weight in their keystrokes. In summary, if sound and a smooth feel are your priorities, go for the Cloud - 50g; if you value feedback and a heftier feel, the WS Red is your best choice. Ultimately, the decision should reflect what makes your typing more enjoyable, ensuring you select the switch that aligns best with your needs.
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