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HMX Deep Navy vs. Wuque Studio WS Brown

An in-depth look at the HMX Deep Navy and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the merits of different options, such as the HMX Deep Navy and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches. The Deep Navy represents a linear switch that excels in providing a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke experience, distinguished by its full nylon construction and the silky Ly stem. This switch caters to users who favor a quieter, more fluid typing experience, making it ideal for gaming or long writing sessions where distraction-free performance is key. In contrast, the WS Brown offers a tactile experience, combining familiarity with innovation. With a medium-light actuation force, it strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort, making it suitable for users who appreciate tactile feedback during their typing. The delightful auditory profile and comfortable design of the WS Brown appeals to many who spend extensive hours at the keyboard. Both switches have their unique strengths, appealing to different preferences and styles of use; however, 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

40g

Actuation force

N/A

Bottom-out force

45g

Bottom-out force

55g

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Total travel

3.60 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

20mm single-stage spring

Spring

22mm double-stage spring

Housing materials

The housing materials of both the HMX Deep Navy and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches exhibit a noteworthy similarity, as both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material is not only classic but is revered in the mechanical keyboard community for its sound dampening properties. The use of nylon gives each switch a deeper and fuller sound profile, which is a significant characteristic, especially for those who prioritize acoustic feedback in their typing experience. Since both the Deep Navy and the WS Brown incorporate nylon in both the top and bottom housings, users can expect a similar auditory experience when typing, characterized by a duller and rounder sound that enhances the overall feel of their mechanical keyboards.

While both switches share the same housing material, the interplay between the top and bottom housings remains crucial in determining their acoustic and tactile outcomes. As the manufacturing quality might slightly differ, factors such as the design and final finish could distinctly influence their performance. For instance, the bottom housing is responsible for the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when keys are released. Therefore, although both switches are constructed from nylon, subtle variations in implementation or engineering can lead to unique feel and sound characteristics. Users will still appreciate the overall similarity in the sound profile, which is inherently shaped by the soft and sound-absorbing nature of nylon.

In summary, despite both the HMX Deep Navy and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches being made from the same nylon material for their housings, potential differences in design and engineering nuance could lead to varying experiences. Each housing plays a distinct role in the overall keyboard feel; hence, while the nylon provides a unified sound signature that enhances the depth and richness, the sensation of typing could be affected by the switch's particular construction. Thus, users can expect a quality typing experience across both products, characterized by their nylon composition, yet the finer details of touch and sound may differ based on the specifics of their designs.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Deep Navy linear switch with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams to the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 55 grams, we see some distinct differences in their characteristics. The Deep Navy is categorized as light due to its lower forces, making it ideal for users who prefer a quick response and less strain during extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the WS Brown's bottom out force of 55 grams indicates a medium-light feel, which suggests a more substantial typing experience but is also heavier than the Deep Navy. The unknown actuation force for the WS Brown prevents a direct comparison in terms of the initial keystroke pressure. However, given the information available, the Deep Navy is the lighter option overall, while the WS Brown leans towards a heavier feel, appealing to those who prefer a more pronounced tactile response. Ultimately, users will find the Deep Navy more comfortable for prolonged use, while the WS Brown may be preferred by those seeking more resistance in their keystrokes.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, we find notable differences. The Deep Navy has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Brown measures slightly longer at 3.8 mm. This means that the Deep Navy offers a shorter travel distance, catering to gamers and users who prefer faster response times. In contrast, the WS Brown, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial feel during key presses, appealing to those who value a more tactile experience. Ultimately, if quick response is your priority, the Deep Navy would be the preferable choice, while the WS Brown may be suited for users who appreciate a more pronounced key press depth.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

The HMX Deep Navy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Deep Navy for $2.79.

The Wuque Studio WS Brown 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

The sound profile of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch is characterized by its sharp, rich auditory experience, which resonates beautifully with its full nylon construction. This material choice enhances the depth of the sound produced, making it enjoyable for those who appreciate acoustic details in their typing. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch delivers a familiar auditory experience that fans of tactile switches cherish. This sound is complemented by the combination of nylon housing and POM stem, creating a harmonious profile that strikes a balance between pleasantness and discretion during use. Ultimately, while both switches offer enjoyable sound experiences, the Deep Navy tilts more towards a pronounced audio output, whereas the WS Brown provides a more subdued yet classic sound.

In terms of feel, the Deep Navy switch is celebrated for its silky smoothness on each keystroke, providing an effortlessly fluid experience that typists may find very appealing, especially for repetitive tasks. The absence of any tactile bump allows for smooth actuation, making it ideal for those who prefer a linear switch for gaming or fast typing. Conversely, the WS Brown switch introduces a tactile bump that provides a clear and satisfying feedback during actuation. This moderate force requirement not only ensures a pleasant typing experience but also minimizes fatigue during extended use, making it well-suited for those who favor a tactile sensation while typing and gaming.

In summary, when weighing the HMX Deep Navy linear switch against the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, it’s clear that both offer unique auditory and tactile experiences tailored to different preferences. The Deep Navy excels in producing a rich sound and providing a smooth action, perfect for users seeking a linear experience. Meanwhile, the WS Brown stands out with its tactile feedback and moderate actuation force, appealing to those who enjoy a bit more interaction with their keys. Ultimately, both switches can cater to different types of users, ensuring that whether you favor the pronounced sound and smoothness of the Deep Navy or the tactile elegance of the WS Brown, you will find satisfaction in your typing experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch ultimately comes down to your specific preferences and use cases. If you crave a lighter actuation force with a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke and a sharp, rich sound profile, the Deep Navy switch might be your go-to option. It's ideal for gamers or typists who prefer rapid key presses without the tactile feedback, allowing you to maneuver through fast-paced games or fluid typing effortlessly. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more tactile experience that provides a balance between comfort and responsiveness, the WS Brown switch is a fantastic choice. Its medium-light bottom-out force offers a satisfying tactile bump that can enhance your typing accuracy during extended sessions while ensuring that you don’t experience fatigue. It caters to those who enjoy the auditory feedback of a clickier switch without feeling overwhelmed, making it perfect for both casual typing and office use. Ultimately, consider how you prioritize sound, feel, and actuation force for the most satisfying typing experience for your needs.

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