HMX Gravel vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the HMX Gravel and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the smooth elegance of linear switches like the HMX Gravel and the engaging tactile experience offered by the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile. The Gravel switch, celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and medium-light actuation force, provides a responsive typing experience that feels effortless, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize speed and fluidity in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch is designed for those who seek a richer typing experience, characterized by a pronounced 70g bump and a distinctive "thocky" sound that resonates with each press, making it not just a functional choice but an auditory delight as well. While the Gravel offers a straightforward, silky-smooth feel ideal for rapid typing, the WS Heavy Tactile caters to users who enjoy a more immersive and textured experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
When comparing the HMX Gravel and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile, the key distinction lies in their top housing materials. The Gravel features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material not only enhances sound clarity but also allows for effective diffusion of RGB lighting, thanks to its translucency. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile utilizes a nylon top housing, which generates a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer formulation of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a more muted acoustic experience. Therefore, while both switches can achieve desirable auditory outcomes, the HMX Gravel leans towards a brighter sound while the Wuque Studio presents a rounder sound characteristic.
Both switch designs utilize nylon for their bottom housings, serving to align their audible profiles to some extent. In both cases, nylon contributes to a robust and full sound experience that resonates through the typing action. This shared material allows for a similar tactile feel and sound depth in the key bottoming-out experience, where the impact of a key press is felt most distinctly. Thus, regardless of the variance in top housing materials, both switches maintain a level of consistency in their deeper acoustic output when pressed down due to their nylon bottom housings.
Ultimately, the combined effect of the different housing materials leads to a nuanced experience that varies by switch. The Gravel's polycarbonate top housing ensures a bright and clear release sound, while the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon top produces a warmer and softer sound on release. However, since both switches share nylon for their bottom housings, the result is a rich and full experience in the key press environment, bridging the gap between the distinct characteristics of the top housings. This unique construction offers keyboard enthusiasts the option of exploring different auditory experiences while benefiting from a good degree of consistency in the overall sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, there are distinct differences in their bottom out forces, though their actuation forces are the same. Both switches feature an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally easy to trigger, which is advantageous for extended typing sessions. However, the Gravel switch has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, while the WS Heavy Tactile switch has a more substantial bottom out force of 70 grams. This means that the Gravel switch provides a softer typing experience, ideal for users who prefer lighter switches, whereas the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a firmer feel, which may appeal to those who enjoy the tactile feedback of a heavier force. As a result, the Gravel switch is the lighter option overall, while the WS Heavy Tactile switch caters to those seeking a heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Gravel linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. This difference in travel distance highlights the Gravel switch as the option that provides a deeper keystroke, which may feel more satisfying for users who appreciate a more substantial actuation. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch, with its shorter travel distance, caters to those who prioritize responsiveness, making it potentially more suitable for gamers looking for quicker actuation times. Ultimately, if you're aiming for a more tactile experience with greater depth, the HMX Gravel would be the better choice, while the WS Heavy Tactile would be advantageous for those who prefer rapid responses with a less pronounced travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Gravel has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gravel 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
When considering sound, the HMX Gravel linear switch has not been evaluated specifically, leaving its auditory characteristics unknown. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch is well-regarded for its "thocky" sound, which is characterized by a clacky and high-pitched tone. Users can anticipate a sharp and percussive auditory experience when typing, enriched by the nylon housings contributing to a resonant quality that enhances the overall sound profile. If sound matters to you, the WS Heavy Tactile clearly offers an engaging auditory experience that can make typing feel more satisfying.
As for the feel, the Gravel switch boasts an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience with a medium-light actuation force that leans toward the lighter side, making it very responsive and effortless to type on. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a more pronounced tactile sensation, featuring a 70g bump that provides substantial resistance and a "bouncy," lively feel. While the Gravel ensures smoothness with each keystroke, the WS Heavy Tactile brings a sharper and snappier feedback that is invigorating and can vividly enhance the overall typing experience. For individuals who prefer responsive, flowing motion versus tactile feedback, these two switches cater to distinct preferences.
In summary, the HMX Gravel linear switch emphasizes a smooth typing sensation without a defined auditory profile, making it ideal for those who prefer quiet and effortless keystrokes. Conversely, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a more pronounced sound and tactile feedback, delivering an engaging and somewhat immersive typing experience that many will find appealing. Depending on your preference for sound and tactile feedback, you’ll find both switches serve different typing styles effectively; selecting one will hinge on your specific keyboard experience desires.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch largely depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you value a smooth and effortless typing experience, particularly for long typing sessions or gaming where rapid key presses are crucial, the Gravel’s light actuation force and refined feel will serve you well. Their subdued sound profile, while not specified, is typically less distracting, making them a solid choice for quieter environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile feedback and engaging acoustic experience, the WS Heavy Tactile is an excellent option. Its heavier actuation force provides a more substantial resistance which can enhance your typing rhythm and may be particularly satisfying for those who enjoy feeling the tactile bump with each keystroke. Additionally, the "thocky" sound and bouncy feedback add to the overall enjoyment of typing, making them ideal for both everyday use and satisfying auditory feedback. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you prioritize smoothness and lightness in your switches or a more pronounced tactile sensation and sound.
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