HMX EVA vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the HMX EVA and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the distinctions between types can greatly influence your typing experience. On one hand, the HMX EVA linear switch, inspired by the iconic colors of the Evangelion Unit-01, is renowned for its silky smooth typing feel and resonant sound signature, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a fluid keystroke without any tactile resistance. This switch is excellent for rapid typing and gaming, where speed is essential and the lack of tactile feedback allows for uninterrupted key presses. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a robust tactile experience characterized by a pronounced 70g bump and an engaging "thocky" sound, providing a satisfying resistance that enhances the typing process. This switch is particularly appealing to users who enjoy a greater sense of feedback during typing and prefer a more immersive auditory experience. Both switches cater to different preferences, whether you value smoothness and quiet operation with the EVA or a tactile and auditory thrill with the WS Heavy Tactile. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
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
T2
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-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX EVA and Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches share a notable similarity in their housing materials, as both utilize nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This choice of nylon is significant because it is recognized as a classic material in the switch manufacturing industry, offering unique acoustic properties. The nylon construction contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing, primarily due to the material's softer nature. This results in a sound that is less sharp and more muted, providing a pleasant typing experience for users who appreciate a duller and rounder auditory feedback when engaging with their keyboards.
While both switches employ nylon for their top and bottom housings, the overall sound and feel during typing may still exhibit certain variations based on their internal designs or spring characteristics. However, due to the identical material used across both the HMX EVA and WS Heavy Tactile, one can expect similar acoustic results overall. When keys are pressed down, the nylon bottom housing's properties will heavily influence the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback, while the top housing will play a more significant role in the sound generated during key release. This provides a cohesive typing experience, where each component complements the other in sound quality and tactile response.
In the realm of tactile feedback, both switches will likely deliver a nuanced and satisfying experience, attributable to the absorbing nature of nylon. Given that they are both constructed entirely from this material, users can anticipate a comparable feel when pressing down on the switches. This completeness in material allows for a consistent sound profile across both products, ensuring that users who prefer the deeper acoustics and softer touch of nylon are likely to appreciate both the HMX EVA and the WS Heavy Tactile equally. Ultimately, those drawn to the acoustic qualities of nylon will find that both switches harmoniously fulfill similar desires in their typing experience, despite potential subtle differences linked to other design factors.
Weight
When comparing the HMX EVA linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation and bottom out forces. The EVA switch features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, suitable for extended use in work or gaming environments. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams and a significantly heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial tactile feedback when typing. Consequently, the EVA is the lighter option, while the WS Heavy Tactile is heavier, providing a more pronounced push feel. These differences suggest that users seeking a lighter touch for long typing sessions may opt for the EVA, while those who prefer a stronger tactile sensation might find the WS Heavy Tactile more appealing. As such, if you are looking for a typing experience that balances force and feedback, your choice will greatly depend on personal preference between light and heavy switches.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX EVA linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, there is a notable difference. The HMX EVA boasts a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Heavy Tactile has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. This means that the EVA provides a more pronounced key press, which could be appealing for those who prefer a deeper feel with each keystroke. Conversely, the WS Heavy Tactile's shorter travel distance may cater to users looking for a quicker response time, making it potentially more suitable for gaming scenarios. Ultimately, if one seeks a more tactile and substantial experience, the HMX EVA would be the better choice, whereas those desiring faster actuation might find the WS Heavy Tactile preferable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX EVA has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EVA for $2.99.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX EVA linear switch has a resonant sound signature, which suggests a clean and immersive auditory experience. This can create an engaging atmosphere while typing, as the higher-pitched tones produce a sense of clarity without being overbearing. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a captivating "thocky" sound profile defined by descriptors like clacky and resonant. The nylon housing contributes to a crisp and bright auditory feedback, enhancing the interaction with each keystroke and creating a percussive sound that many users find satisfying. This difference in sound character highlights how the EVA leans toward smoothness and resonance, while the WS Heavy Tactile leans into a more pronounced and lively auditory profile.
When it comes to feel, the HMX EVA is characterized by a silky smooth typing experience, which suggests that it provides an uninterrupted glide without any notable tactile bumps, making it ideal for users who prefer a linear action. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile switch is designed to deliver a profound tactile experience with its 70g bump, noted for being both accented and invigorating. Users can expect a lively, bouncy sensation with sharp feedback, offering a snappy and reactive feel that brings a different level of engagement to typing. Thus, while the EVA prioritizes a smooth keypress, the WS Heavy Tactile emphasizes pronounced tactility and responsiveness.
In conclusion, the HMX EVA linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch cater to different preferences in both sound and feel. The EVA provides a resonant auditory experience with a smooth typing sensation, making it perfect for those who favor an uninterrupted glide. Conversely, the WS Heavy Tactile delivers a captivating sound profile paired with a pronounced tactile feedback that enriches the typing experience. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, you can choose one that aligns best with your typing needs. If you enjoy a more engaging and responsive experience, the WS Heavy Tactile would be your go-to, whereas if you value a smooth, linear feel and resonant sound, the HMX EVA would suit you better.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing requirements. If you favor a lighter touch and a smooth typing experience, the EVA is an excellent option, especially if you're drawn to its unique aesthetics inspired by the iconic colors of Evangelion Unit-01. Its 48-gram bottom-out force will appeal to those who appreciate a more effortless keystroke, making it suitable for extended typing sessions or fast-paced gaming without fatigue. On the other hand, if you find satisfaction in a more pronounced tactile sensation and enjoy the engaging “thocky” sound that the WS Heavy Tactile offers, then this switch may be better suited for you. The higher bottom-out force of 70 grams provides a more substantial feedback, making it ideal for typists who appreciate a more deliberate and immersive experience with each keystroke. The heavier tactile bump can enhance your typing accuracy while offering a comforting resistance that many users find invigorating. So, consider what kind of feedback and sound profile you desire in your mechanical keyboard, and choose accordingly to enhance your overall typing enjoyment.
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