HMX EVA vs. Wuque Studio WS Red

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice can often seem overwhelming. Two interesting options that emerge are the HMX EVA and the Wuque Studio WS Red, both of which are linear switches but each brings its own unique qualities to the table. The HMX EVA, inspired by the iconic colors of Evangelion Unit-01, is celebrated for its resonant sound signature and silky smooth typing feel, offering a delightful experience for those who prioritize fluid keystrokes and aesthetics. On the other hand, the WS Red sets itself apart with its distinctive 22mm double-stage spring, providing a bouncy and responsive typing experience that delivers a familiar sound signature, albeit with a heavier actuation force that contributes to a more substantial feel with each stroke. While both switches cater to individuals seeking a linear switch experience, they certainly diverge in terms of feel and feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX EVA Linear

Wuque Studio WS Red Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX EVA and the Wuque Studio WS Red both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, creating a distinctive similarity in their sound profiles and tactile characteristics. As a well-regarded switch housing material, nylon is recognized for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound, primarily due to its relatively softer nature. This softness allows the nylon to absorb sound effectively, which results in a duller and rounder audio experience when typing. Consequently, users of both the EVA and WS Red can expect a similar auditory feedback, enhancing their typing experience through muted keystrokes that are less jarring than those produced by harder plastics.

While both switches feature nylon in their construction, subtle differences in design or other components might influence the overall typing experience. For instance, the way the internal components interact within each housing can alter aspects like the actuation force or the tactile feedback. Nonetheless, because both the EVA and WS Red houses share the same material properties, they are likely to yield comparable outcomes concerning the switch's sound profile during both keypresses and releases. This consistent nylon composition ensures that both switches provide a satisfying acoustic response, appealing to users who value sound quality in their keyboards.

Moreover, the division of labor between the top and bottom housings in a switch's performance remains a critical aspect to consider. While the bottom housing tends to contribute more to the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing plays a significant role in determining the sound produced as a key is released. Since both the EVA and WS Red integrate nylon in both parts, they are inherently linked in terms of sound absorption and transmission, meaning users will receive a sleek and rounded sound signature whether they are bottoming out on key presses or enjoying the release action of the switches. This synergy across both designs not only ensures a delightful auditory experience but also highlights how similar material selections can lead to consistent performance outcomes in keyboard switches.

Weight

The HMX EVA linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch exhibit contrasting characteristics in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The EVA features a relatively light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter feel, ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the WS Red switch does not specify an actuation force but has a noticeably heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a firmer push required for activation. While the actuation force for the WS Red is unknown, its bottom out force suggests a more substantial typing experience that may appeal to those who favor a stronger tactile feedback. Thus, the EVA is the lighter option, while the WS Red is the heavier choice, catering to different user preferences in typing feel.

Travel distance

The HMX EVA linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the EVA the shorter of the two options, appealing to gamers seeking faster response times due to its decreased key travel. In contrast, the WS Red's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feel when pressing down the key, which some users might prefer for a more deliberate typing experience. Both switches, however, fall within the range of modern preferences, reflecting the trend of shorter distances for enhanced responsiveness versus longer distances for a more tactile feedback. If you're looking at potentially achieving similar results in terms of typing dynamics, you might still find both switches effective; it simply comes down to personal preference for the feel and response of the keypress.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The HMX EVA linear switch is characterized by its resonant sound signature, which enhances the auditory experience during typing, making each keystroke feel more dynamic and engaging. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Red switch features a familiar sound profile due to its classic material blend, maintaining a more traditional sound that many typists will find comfortable. While both switches prioritize a smooth typing experience, the EVA’s resonant qualities may offer a more pronounced aural feedback, whereas the WS Red provides a classic and somewhat subdued auditory presence. It’s important to remember that sound perception can also depend heavily on other factors, such as the keyboard design and the keycap material used.

When it comes to feel, the HMX EVA linear switch is noted for its silky smooth typing experience, which allows for effortless keystrokes and a gentle glide as fingers move across the keys. On the other hand, the WS Red is built with a 22mm double-stage spring, providing a bouncy and responsive typing feel. This additional spring complexity ensures that each keystroke possesses a satisfying weight, delivering more feedback and a sense of substantiality as you type. While the EVA strikes a balance between smoothness and response, the WS Red leans into a heavier actuation force that can create a different tactile experience.

In conclusion, both the HMX EVA and Wuque Studio WS Red linear switches bring unique qualities to the table. The EVA's resonant sound and silky feel appeal to those seeking a smooth and immersive typing experience, while the WS Red, with its classic sound and bouncy response, caters to users who prefer a heavier touch and a satisfying feedback loop. Ultimately, both switches can provide enjoyable typing experiences, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for sound and feel.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the HMX EVA linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch will largely depend on your personal preferences in typing experience and the kind of tactile feedback you seek. If you prefer a lighter touch and a more fluid typing experience, the EVA's bottom out force of only 48 grams, combined with its silky smooth feel and resonant sound signature, makes it an excellent choice for extended typing sessions. Its design inspired by Evangelion Unit-01 also adds a unique aesthetic appeal. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more substantial feel with a heavier keystroke, the WS Red, with its 67-gram bottom out force and bouncy, responsive typing feedback, will likely suit you better. This switch not only provides a classic typing experience but also delivers that satisfying heft with each keystroke, making it ideal for those who appreciate a bit more resistance in their typing. In summary, consider the EVA for a light, fluid experience and the WS Red for a more tactile, weighty feel to enhance your overall keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

HMX EVA Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Wuque Studio WS Red Linear

$3.50 per 10

Learn more