HMX Deep Navy vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi
An in-depth look at the HMX Deep Navy and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the HMX Deep Navy and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi can significantly impact your typing experience. The Deep Navy switch, renowned for its rich and sharp sound profile, features a full nylon construction that offers a compelling tactile feedback with every keystroke, boosted further by the silky smoothness of its Ly stem. Ideal for those seeking a punchy audio experience, the Deep Navy switch exemplifies clarity and responsiveness. In contrast, the WS Morandi switch combines aesthetic innovation with functionality, offering a light column that enhances RGB lighting effects while featuring an all-POM construction that results in a muted sound profile. With its UPE stem providing a unique, airy smoothness, the Morandi is perfect for users who prefer a quieter, subtler experience. Each switch has its own appeal—whether you're drawn to the auditory richness of the Deep Navy or the clean elegance of the WS Morandi. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Deep Navy and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches, it is evident that both rely on distinct plastics—nylon for the Deep Navy and POM (polyoxymethylene) for the WS Morandi. The nylon employed in the Deep Navy’s design is a classic choice known for its ability to create a fuller and deeper sound profile due to its softer composition. This characteristic allows nylon to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a rounder and duller auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the POM used in the WS Morandi offers a similarly appealing sound profile, albeit with its unique muting quality. Despite the differences in materials, both switches are engineered to produce deep sound characteristics that users may find equally satisfying.
While the top and bottom housings of the HMX Deep Navy and Wuque Studio WS Morandi differ in terms of material, the qualitative outcomes of their sound profiles bear resemblance. The Deep Navy utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, ensuring that the switch maintains a cohesive sound signature throughout its operation. The softer nature of the nylon contributes to a consistently muted and plush sound when typing, particularly when keys bottom out. Conversely, the WS Morandi's top and bottom housings, made of POM, also prioritize sound absorption and depth, allowing for a softer auditory experience. Though each material offers its specific nuances, the result remains a pleasant and deep typing sound, showcasing how both switches can similarly achieve desirable acoustic qualities while employing different materials.
The interplay between the top and bottom housing materials in each switch ultimately defines the typing experience. In the HMX Deep Navy, the nylon contributes to both the sound and feel of the typing action, particularly emphasizing the bottoming-out sound with each key press. This results in a smooth transition and an overall engaging experience. On the other hand, the WS Morandi’s POM housing maintains its own approach—while the top housing controls the release sound noticeably, the bottom housing significantly influences the feel of each keystroke. Despite using different materials, both switches manage to effectively balance sound quality and tactile feedback, creating similarly compelling typing experiences that users may enjoy regardless of their preferred material.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Deep Navy features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it well-suited for extended typing sessions due to its reduced effort requirement. In contrast, the WS Morandi switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial feel that may appeal to those who prefer a firmer typing experience. Therefore, users seeking a lighter switch for casual or prolonged use might gravitate towards the Deep Navy, while those in favor of a stronger push sensation might opt for the WS Morandi. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces indicate a clear distinction in user experience, tailored to individual preferences for weight and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The HMX Deep Navy linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This indicates that while both switches offer a relatively short travel distance, the Deep Navy switch provides just a bit more depth compared to the Morandi. Gamers or users prioritizing quick response times may favor the WS Morandi due to its shorter travel distance, which can facilitate faster key presses. Conversely, those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback may prefer the HMX Deep Navy switch for its greater travel depth. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding response time versus key feel.
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 Morandi has an MSRP of $4.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Morandi for $3.90.
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 rich and sharp acoustics, thanks to its full nylon construction. This material choice contributes to a more pronounced auditory experience, providing a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, the WS Morandi linear switch offers a subdued and thocky sound profile, producing a low-pitched, bass-heavy tone that is both rich and satisfying while remaining relatively quiet. The all-POM housing used in the WS Morandi helps achieve this muted sound, resulting in a deeper "thud" but without overwhelming your environment. While both switches provide pleasing auditory feedback, the Deep Navy is more lively and sharper, whereas the WS Morandi leans towards a quieter, softer acoustic presence.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Deep Navy linear switch is noted for its exceptional smoothness, partly due to the Ly stem design. This results in a pleasant typing experience with minimal resistance, allowing for effortless keystrokes. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switch presents an airy, buttery sensation, providing a creamy and silky typing experience that feels fluid and almost luxurious. This smoothness is enhanced by the way the UPE stem interacts with the housing, collectively promoting a seamless typing flow. Both switches emphasize a smooth experience, but the Deep Navy leans towards a more traditional, smooth feel while the WS Morandi introduces a unique combination of buttery and airy qualities.
In summary, both the HMX Deep Navy and WS Morandi linear switches excel in sound and feel but cater to different preferences. The Deep Navy offers a sharper and more pronounced audio experience with a smooth keystroke feel, ideal for users who enjoy a more lively typing atmosphere. Conversely, the WS Morandi provides a quieter and subtler sound with a uniquely creamy, airy sensation during typing. Ultimately, your choice will boil down to whether you prefer a richer auditory experience with a traditional linear smoothness or a more understated and nuanced feel combined with enhanced aesthetics and quieter acoustics.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, consider your typing preferences and the auditory feedback you desire. If you crave a lighter switch that offers a rich, sharp sound profile coupled with a silky smooth keystroke feel, the Deep Navy is your ideal choice. Its 45-gram bottom-out force makes it particularly suitable for those who enjoy fast-paced typing or gaming sessions, making each keystroke feel effortless while delivering an engaging auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial typing experience with a muted, subdued sound profile, the WS Morandi is better suited for you. With a 60-gram bottom-out force, it provides a satisfying resistance that's ideal for those who appreciate a more tactile typing feedback. Additionally, the creamy and buttery smoothness combined with the enhanced RGB aesthetic makes it perfect for productivity and leisurely typing without being disruptive. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on the balance between the smoothness and sound profile you value most in your typing experience.
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