HMX EVA vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi
An in-depth look at the HMX EVA and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EVA and Wuque Studio WS Morandi stand out as two compelling options for enthusiasts seeking a linear experience. The HMX EVA, inspired by the vibrant aesthetics of Evangelion Unit-01, delivers a combination of a resonant sound signature and a silky smooth typing feel, making it ideal for those who appreciate tactile feedback and a bit of auditory engagement. In contrast, the WS Morandi emphasizes not only performance but also visual appeal, featuring a light column design that enhances RGB lighting effects, along with an airy smoothness courtesy of its UPE stem. Its sound profile is notably muted thanks to all-POM housings, which may appeal to users preferring a quieter typing experience. While both switches are lauded for their unique characteristics—one celebrating a brighter sound and feel, the other prioritizing smoothness and aesthetics—individual preferences will ultimately guide your choice. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities, so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
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
T2
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
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the HMX EVA and Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches present distinct characteristics that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The EVA utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings, which is known for its softer structure that absorbs sound effectively. This housing composition leads to a deeper and fuller auditory experience, allowing for a duller and rounder sound signature when typing. The consistency of nylon throughout both the top and bottom hosing reinforces this overall sound profile, emphasizing a harmonious and cohesive sounding experience.
In contrast, the WS Morandi switches employ POM (polyoxymethylene) for both the top and bottom housings. POM is celebrated for its ability to produce a unique and pleasing sound, characterized by a deep and muted quality. While the sound profile also has a degree of softness, the differences in material composition between the nylon and POM could mean variations in tactile feedback and sound clarity. The POM's properties may lead to a slightly different auditory experience, yet the switch still benefits from the same fundamental attributes that make switch materials significant. With POM, the result can be a quick, responsive feel with a distinctive auditory quality that contrasts with the EVA's warmer sound.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the HMX EVA and WS Morandi switches can achieve similar sound results due to the interplay between bottom and top housing characteristics. While the EVA offers a deeper sound profile through nylon's inherent qualities, the Morandi compensates with POM's unique sound profile, albeit with potential variations in tactile feedback. Therefore, users may find that both switches maintain a satisfying auditory experience, even as individual elements differ; the overall intent of achieving a pleasant typing sound and feel remains prevalent in both the EVA's nylon and the Morandi's POM compositions. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for sound warmth versus clarity.
Weight
The HMX EVA linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch differ in both actuation and bottom out force, reflecting their targeted user experiences. The EVA features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a gentle touch when typing or gaming for extended periods. In contrast, the WS Morandi requires a medium actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more robust feel that some users may find preferable for a more substantial typing experience. Therefore, the EVA is the lighter option, promoting comfort during long usage sessions, while the WS Morandi, being heavier, caters to those who enjoy a stronger push feel. As a result, users seeking ease and endurance may favor the EVA, while those who appreciate feedback from their keystrokes might gravitate towards the WS Morandi.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX EVA linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, it becomes evident that the EVA switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Morandi features a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that users of the EVA switch will experience a bit more key travel when pressing down, giving a sensation of hearty depth that might appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback during typing. On the other hand, the WS Morandi's 3.5 mm travel distance is closer to the shorter end of the spectrum, catering to gamers and those who favor faster response times. While the difference is minimal, it could impact user experience based on personal preference for responsiveness versus depth. In summary, the HMX EVA offers a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, while the Wuque Studio WS Morandi serves those who prefer a shorter, quicker press.
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 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX EVA linear switch stands out with its clacky tone, producing a sharp and snappy auditory feedback that is crisp and bright. This can create an engaging typing experience that resonates with users who appreciate a lively acoustic environment. In contrast, the WS Morandi delivers a low-pitched and thocky sound profile, characterized by a deep and rich thud that can be more satisfying for those looking for a mellow audio experience. This difference in sound profiles means that while the EVA caters to those who enjoy a more vibrant and percussive response, the Morandi appeals to users seeking a softer, more subdued auditory feedback. Ultimately, the sound perception will vary based on individual preferences, setups, and keycap choices.
In terms of feel, the HMX EVA is designed for an exceptionally lightweight experience, described as feathery, which means minimal effort is required from your fingers. This is ideal for long typing sessions, reducing fatigue and allowing for quick keystrokes. Its silky smoothness enhances the overall typing experience by minimizing resistance during key presses, while the bouncy sensation adds a playful and responsive feedback that can enhance the enjoyment of typing. By comparison, the WS Morandi also provides a silky feel but leans more toward a buttery and creamy typing experience, emphasizing smoothness and uniformity. This creates an effortless keystroke sensation that feels luxurious but might not have the same lively feedback as the EVA. Both switches offer a silky typing sensation, but the EVA's additional bounciness might appeal more to users looking for a dynamic feeling in their key presses.
In conclusion, both the HMX EVA and WS Morandi switches have unique strengths in sound and feel that cater to different typing preferences. The EVA’s resonant, clacky sound combined with its light and bouncy feedback offers a more engaging experience for those who enjoy a lively typing rhythm. Meanwhile, the Morandi’s low-pitched, thocky sound and buttery smoothness present a more subdued but equally satisfying alternative for users seeking a plush experience. Although both switches feature silky smoothness, the overall typing sensations and auditory characteristics differ enough to help newcomers make an informed choice based on their preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX EVA and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switches will largely depend on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you prefer a light actuation force for rapid keystrokes, especially beneficial in fast-paced gaming or extensive typing sessions, then the EVA, with its 48-gram bottom-out force, might be your go-to option. The EVA’s clacky sound signature can also add a satisfying auditory feedback to your typing experience, which is great if you enjoy that sharper, more percussive sound. Its feathery, silky, and bouncy feel contributes to a dynamic typing experience that reduces finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you’re drawn to a more muted, thocky sound profile with a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, the WS Morandi would serve your needs well. The buttery and creamy feel of the Morandi, combined with its innovative design enhancing RGB visuals, offers a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. This makes it an excellent choice for those who appreciate aesthetic considerations but also want a more substantial keystroke feel. Ultimately, consider your typing style, environment, and the sounds you enjoy as key factors in making your decision.
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