HMX Cloud - 50g vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to enhancing your typing experience, the choice of mechanical keyboard switches can make all the difference. The HMX Cloud - 50g switch stands out for its clacky sound profile and lighter 50g actuation force, attracting enthusiasts who seek a bright and engaging typing sensation infused with a silky smooth feel. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switch presents a more refined option, characterized by its innovative 22mm double-stage spring and a blend of classic materials that promise a satisfying bounce and a fluid typing experience. This switch is celebrated for its familiar sound signature, appreciated by those who crave a "creamy," "mild," and "polished" feel while typing. Each of these linear switches offers unique benefits tailored to different preferences; while the HMX Cloud - 50g is perfect for those who enjoy a lively sound and light touch, the WS Yellow caters to users seeking a harmonious balance of feel and feedback. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
The HMX Cloud - 50g and Wuque Studio WS Yellow both utilize nylon for their top and bottom switch housings, leading to a remarkably similar typing experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, offers an effective means of sound absorption, which enhances the overall acoustic quality and provides a duller and rounder sound when typing. This shared material contributes to a pleasant auditory feedback during usage and results in a satisfying user experience that many typists and gamers appreciate.
While both switches employ nylon for their housings, the roles of the top and bottom housings vary slightly in their contributions to the overall feel and sound. The bottom housing is crucial in determining the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback felt when a key is pressed down, while the top housing predominantly affects the sound upon releasing the key. However, since both the HMX Cloud - 50g and WS Yellow utilize the same nylon material for both housings, users can expect similarly rich acoustics and a cohesive sound profile irrespective of the switch they choose.
In conclusion, the similarities in housing material between the HMX Cloud - 50g and Wuque Studio WS Yellow yield comparable performance characteristics. Users will likely find them to deliver a consistent typing experience marked by sound absorption and acoustic depth due to the advantages of nylon. Thus, irrespective of the specific switch, typists can expect a satisfying and harmonious engagement while typing or gaming, facilitated by the inherent qualities of nylon as a housing material.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, notable differences emerge. The HMX Cloud switch requires an actuation force of 42 grams and has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option that is well-suited for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming. In contrast, while the actuation force for the WS Yellow is unspecified, it has a bottom out force of 53 grams, which indicates a medium-light feel. This suggests that the WS Yellow may provide a slightly firmer resistance when fully pressed down. Thus, the HMX Cloud is the lighter switch overall due to its specified actuation and bottom out forces, while the WS Yellow offers a heavier bottom out experience. For users looking for a more substantial typing feel, the WS Yellow's unknown actuation force could still yield a satisfying response, but the Cloud switch offers a definitive advantage in terms of ease of use during longer typing sessions.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, we find that the Cloud - 50g features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the WS Yellow has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Cloud - 50g allows for a more pronounced keypress, catering to those who prefer a deeper feel when typing or gaming. In contrast, the WS Yellow, with its shorter distance, may provide quicker response times, appealing to gamers who favor speed over depth. While both switches are relatively close in distance, the Cloud - 50g offers a more substantial actuation, whereas the WS Yellow prioritizes responsiveness. Thus, if you gravitate towards a more tactile experience, the Cloud - 50g might be the more suitable choice; however, if you lean towards rapid input, the WS Yellow could serve you better.
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 Yellow 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 Cloud - 50g switch is characterized by a clacky sound profile that offers an auditory experience geared towards those who relish a bright typing atmosphere. This makes it quite engaging for typists who enjoy feedback from their keystrokes. On the other hand, the WS Yellow switch provides a familiar sound signature that enthusiasts appreciate, although it does not specify its exact auditory profile. Both switches, however, can produce different sounds depending on the board and keycaps used, so users may find that experimenting with various combinations can yield varied auditory results.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Cloud - 50g is celebrated for its silky smoothness, providing a seamless experience as fingers glide effortlessly over the keys. This switch's lightweight design adds to the ease of typing, making it suitable for extended use. In contrast, the WS Yellow switch emphasizes a creamy tactile experience that feels buttery and smooth, largely attributed to its materials and design. Additionally, it offers a mild and polished typing experience, with reduced friction throughout key travel. The combination of these attributes ensures that both switches deliver a pleasurable and efficient typing experience, though they approach it from slightly different angles.
Overall, the HMX Cloud - 50g and Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches each provide unique sensory experiences, making them appealing to different types of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Cloud - 50g excels in delivering a vivid sound and smooth feel, the WS Yellow focuses on a creamy texture and a more subdued auditory experience. Users looking for a lively typing atmosphere may gravitate towards the Cloud - 50g, while those preferring a more classic, buttery sensation may favor the WS Yellow. Ultimately, both switches are designed for a smooth typing experience, and either choice can lead to satisfying results based on personal preference and setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, your choice will ultimately depend on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel. If you desire a lighter, clacky sound profile with a smoother typing experience, the HMX Cloud - 50g is an excellent option. It’s designed for enthusiasts who appreciate a bright and airy auditory feedback alongside a silky smooth feel, making it ideal for typing in a way that is both satisfying and pleasant. On the other hand, if you prefer a more textured experience with a subtle bounce and a creamy feel, the WS Yellow switches may be more suitable for you. Their combination of a medium-light bottom-out force and a polished, buttery action can enhance your typing enjoyment, especially if you appreciate a familiar sound signature and refined performance. Therefore, consider what aspects of typing you value most—whether it's the lightweight, vibrant feedback of the Cloud - 50g or the balanced, smooth experience offered by the WS Yellow. Your decision will guide you toward the switch that best complements your typing style and enhances your overall keyboard experience.
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