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HMX Deep Navy vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile

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

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the differences between options like the HMX Deep Navy and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile can significantly influence your typing experience. The HMX Deep Navy switch is celebrated for its linear design, allowing for a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, which many find ideal for gaming and fast-paced typing—offering not only a silky-smooth experience but also a rich, sharp sound profile thanks to its full nylon construction. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch boasts a notable 70g tactile bump that delivers a gratifying and immersive typing experience. Its nylon housing enhances the "thocky" sound, creating a more engaging and satisfying interaction, especially for those who enjoy the feedback of tactile switches while typing. Ultimately, while the Deep Navy might appeal to those who prefer a smoother, quieter operation, the WS Heavy Tactile is advantageous for users seeking a more pronounced tactile feedback and auditory satisfaction. 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

40g

Actuation force

45g

Bottom-out force

45g

Bottom-out force

70g

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Total travel

3.60 mm

Total travel

3.20 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 single-stage spring

Housing materials

The HMX Deep Navy and Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile both utilize nylon for their switch housings, encompassing both the top and bottom components. This choice of material is significant as nylon is renowned for its acoustic characteristics, which enhance the typing experience. In both switches, the nylon construction elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively soft plastic nature. This property allows nylon to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a typing experience that is characterized by a duller yet rounder sound. Hence, users of both the HMX Deep Navy and the WS Heavy Tactile can expect a similar auditory feedback when typing.

While both switches share the same material for their housings, it is important to recognize the implications of having a uniform material composition in terms of performance and feel. Since both the Deep Navy and WS Heavy Tactile switches have nylon for both the top and bottom housings, it suggests that the overall sound and feel characteristics are likely to be highly cohesive. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound, while the top housing impacts the sound produced upon releasing a key. This uniformity in material not only contributes to a seamless auditory experience but also allows for consistent tactile feedback throughout the pressing and releasing of keys.

In summary, the usage of nylon in both the HMX Deep Navy and Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches signifies a concerted design choice aimed at enhancing the typing experience through sound absorption and tactile quality. Since both models exhibit the same material properties, they will render a comparable feel and auditory profile. The synergy between the top and bottom nylon housings ensures that users enjoy a consistent experience regardless of which model they choose, further validating the reputation of nylon as a reliable and effective switch housing material in keyboard design.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, noticeable differences emerge. The Deep Navy features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a lighter touch, ideal for long typing sessions or extended gaming. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile switch exhibits a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a significantly heftier bottom out force of 70 grams, catering to users who prefer a more substantial feel with a tactile response. This heavier configuration provides a more robust typing experience. Consequently, while the actuation forces of the two switches are similar, the Deep Navy offers a lighter overall feel, whereas the WS Heavy Tactile is suited for individuals who enjoy a stronger push.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Deep Navy features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Heavy Tactile has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. This difference means that if you are seeking a more responsive experience, the WS Heavy Tactile could be preferable, as it allows for quicker activation. Conversely, if you appreciate a more substantial feel with deeper key presses, the Deep Navy's longer travel distance may be more suitable for your typing or gaming style. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference regarding responsiveness versus 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 Heavy Tactile 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 a rich and sharp auditory experience, arising from its full nylon construction, which contributes to a smooth yet engaging sound with each keystroke. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch produces a "thocky" sound that is more pronounced and immersive, consisting of a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant tone. While the Deep Navy's sound is silky smooth, providing a more subtle auditory feedback, the WS Heavy Tactile excels in delivering a vibrant and crisp typing sound that appeals to those who enjoy a lively acoustic experience. Therefore, if you're deciphering between the two, the Deep Navy offers a more refined sound, perfect for quieter environments, while the WS Heavy Tactile stands out in a dynamic and expressive audio landscape.

When it comes to feel, the Deep Navy switch is noted for its silky smooth keystrokes, lending to a gliding sensation with minimal resistance. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile is noted for its invigorating and bouncy feedback, which creates a lively typing experience characterized by pronounced tactility. With a 70g bump and sharp tactile response, it caters to users who crave a more pronounced tactile sensation without feeling overly harsh. The Deep Navy's smoothness makes it suitable for extended typing sessions, providing a less fatiguing experience, while the WS Heavy Tactile can maintain engagement and excitement, especially for those who enjoy tactile feedback in their typing.

In conclusion, selecting between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch ultimately hinges on personal preferences regarding sound and feel. The Deep Navy offers a refined and smooth auditory and tactile experience, making it ideal for users seeking a more laid-back feel, whereas the WS Heavy Tactile delivers a more dynamic and engaging typing experience, with its clacky sound and pronounced tactile feedback. Your final choice should reflect your typing style, environment, and the type of auditory feedback you desire, ensuring an experience that aligns with your needs.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, consider the specific typing experience you seek. If you're drawn to a lighter typing feel and a smoother, more fluid keystroke, the Deep Navy would be an ideal choice. Its 45-gram actuation force allows for effortless typing, making it particularly suitable for fast-paced gaming or extensive typing sessions where comfort is paramount. Additionally, the rich, sharp sound profile can enhance your auditory experience, providing an immersive touch for those who appreciate linear switches.

Conversely, if you prefer substantial tactile feedback and a more engaging typing sensation, the WS Heavy Tactile switch could be better suited for you. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 70 grams, it offers a pronounced tactile bump and a more dynamic auditory feedback characterized by its "thocky" sound. This switch would be perfect if you find satisfaction in the deliberate feel of your keystrokes, whether for typing or gaming, as its invigorating and snappy feel keeps the typing experience lively. Ultimately, the choice comes down to your personal preference for switch characteristics—whether you lean toward a smooth and light linear action or a tactile and responsive feel that enhances your interaction with the keyboard.

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