HMX Cloud - 50g vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting mechanical keyboard switches, both performance and personal preference play crucial roles, making the choice between the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile particularly interesting. The HMX Cloud - 50g, a linear switch, is celebrated for its clacky sound profile and silky smooth feel, appealing to enthusiasts who crave a bright and lively typing experience. Its lighter actuation force makes it ideal for users who prioritize speed and fluidity in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch offers a unique blend of medium tactility and superior noise reduction, making it the perfect choice for office environments where silence is key. This innovative switch eschews traditional silicone dampeners, instead relying on precision-engineered stem railings to deliver both quiet operation and crisp tactile feedback. While the Cloud - 50g appeals to those who revel in auditory and tactile stimulation, the WS Silent Tactile caters to users seeking a more subdued yet responsive typing experience. 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
63.5g
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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Cloud - 50g and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile both feature nylon as their primary housing material for both the top and bottom components. This choice emphasizes the use of nylon's advantageous acoustic properties, leading to a similar auditory experience across both switches. When users type on either switch, they will encounter a sound profile characterized as deeper and fuller—a result of the softer plastic's ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder materials. This shared quality not only enhances the overall typing experience but also ensures that both switches produce a rounded and subdued sound, making them suitable options for environments where noise levels are a concern.
Despite sharing the same material composition, nuances exist in the overall tactile experience due to the switches' design and mechanics. While both the Cloud - 50g and WS Silent Tactile employ nylon to create a rich sound, the way each switch interacts with the user may differ based on factors like actuation force and tactile feedback. For instance, the bottom housing of each switch will provide a significant influence on the bottom-out feel and sound, while the top housing contributes to the auditory experience after the key is released. This means that, although they are similar in materials, the personal experience may vary with each product, catering to different preferences in tactile feedback and sound characteristics.
In terms of getting similar results, users can expect to achieve a comparable sound profile regardless of which switch they choose, thanks to the universality of nylon's acoustic properties. This allows for an enjoyable typing experience rich in texture and sound. Furthermore, since both switches are constructed from the same material, owners of one switch are likely to appreciate the qualities found in the other; they can switch between the two without a stark deviation in auditory feedback. Ultimately, while the tactile and mechanical differences may impact the feel, the commonality in housing materials ensures that both switches maintain a harmonious sound experience that appeals to a wide range of users.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Cloud - 50g switch features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a suitable option for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons, as it reduces finger fatigue. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile switch has an unspecified actuation force but a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This heavier pressure likely contributes to a more substantial typing experience, appealing to users who prefer a firmer response when pressing keys. Therefore, while the HMX Cloud is the lighter option overall, with lower actuation and bottom out forces, the WS Silent Tactile presents itself as a medium-heavy alternative, offering a distinct tactile feedback that can satisfy those who appreciate a stronger keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch, a noticeable difference emerges. The Cloud - 50g features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the WS Silent Tactile has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Cloud switch offers a more pronounced depth, making it potentially more suitable for users who appreciate a substantial keypress feel. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the WS Silent Tactile caters to those seeking quicker response times, which can enhance gaming performance. If you prioritize a rapid actuation and don't mind a less tactile feel, the WS Silent Tactile would be favorable. Conversely, for users drawn to a deeper keypress that provides a more substantial typing experience, the Cloud - 50g would be the better choice.
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 Silent 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
In terms of sound, the Cloud - 50g switch produces a clacky sound profile that appeals to enthusiasts who enjoy a brighter and more pronounced auditory experience when typing. This lively sound contributes to an engaging atmosphere, especially for users who appreciate the acoustic feedback of their keystrokes. Conversely, the WS Silent Tactile switch is designed for a quieter operation, characterized by its muted sound profile that excels in office settings. Unlike the Cloud - 50g's clacky nature, the WS Silent Tactile provides a neutral sound experience, effectively minimizing noise while still ensuring that the user receives crisp auditory feedback upon actuation. This makes the WS Silent Tactile ideal for environments where noise levels need to be kept in check.
When discussing feel, the Cloud - 50g switch offers a silky smooth typing experience that caters to users who favor a fluid, uninterrupted keystroke. This smoothness can be particularly enjoyable for those who type extensively and prefer a switch that allows for swift movements across the keyboard. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch provides a medium level of tactility, described as accented and invigorating. This switch delivers moderate feedback that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, allowing for a responsive feel that enhances typing immersion. Additionally, the WS Silent Tactile combines this feedback with a mild sensation, making it approachable for various users without compromising on engagement.
In conclusion, while the Cloud - 50g and WS Silent Tactile switches offer different experiences, both have their unique strengths tailored to specific preferences and environments. The Cloud - 50g delivers an auditory and tactile experience that is engaging and smooth, suitable for those who revel in a more dynamic typing experience. Conversely, the WS Silent Tactile focuses on quiet operation paired with a satisfying tactile feel, making it perfect for noise-sensitive settings. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize a lively sound and seamless feel or a muted experience combined with discernible tactility.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and environment. If you prioritize a lighter switch with a clacky sound profile and an incredibly smooth feel, the HMX Cloud - 50g will likely be your best bet. This switch caters to those who enjoy a brighter and more vibrant typing experience, making it ideal for gaming or casual typing where a little sound and feedback add to the enjoyment. On the other hand, if you work in a quieter office setting or share your workspace with others, the WS Silent Tactile switch is designed for you. With its medium-heavy actuation force and refined tactile feedback, it promotes a quieter atmosphere without sacrificing the satisfaction of typing. The innovative design effectively balances silence with a responsive feel, ensuring you can type comfortably without disturbing your surroundings. Therefore, consider your primary use case and the noise tolerance of those around you when making your decision; your preferences in tactile feel and sound will guide you to the right switch for your mechanical keyboard journey.
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