HMX Gravel vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi

Overview

When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Gravel and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi stand out as two compelling options for enthusiasts seeking linear performance. The HMX Gravel is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing experience, designed with a medium-light actuation force that allows for a swift and effortless response, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize a seamless keystroke. In contrast, the WS Morandi merges innovative design with aesthetic appeal, featuring a light column that enhances RGB illumination and provides an airy smoothness thanks to its UPE stem. Its all-POM housing contributes to a muted sound profile, appealing to users who prefer a quieter and more subdued typing environment. Each switch offers unique benefits: the Gravel excels in delivering a responsive and satisfying feel, while the Morandi impresses with its visual flair and acoustic profile. 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 Gravel Linear

Wuque Studio WS Morandi Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$4.30

$3.90 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Gravel and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi, one can observe distinct acoustic characteristics stemming from their respective top housings. The Gravel features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile due to its stiffness. This material's translucence also makes it particularly effective for showcasing RGB lighting, enhancing both visual aesthetics and auditory clarity. In contrast, the WS Morandi employs a POM top housing that generates a sound profile that leans towards the deeper side, delivering a more muted and rounded auditory experience. While both materials serve specific purposes, their fundamental differences contrast the overall auditory experience provided by each switch.

Looking at the bottom housings, the Gravel opts for nylon, a material that is heralded for producing a fuller and deeper sound profile. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb sound more effectively than stiffer plastics, resulting in a rounder sound. The WS Morandi, on the other hand, features a POM bottom housing, which similarly aims to create a deeper sound, though it is still characterized as muted. Both nylon and POM contribute to a pleasant auditory output; however, nylon tends to produce a fuller experience while POM focuses on providing a more balanced yet subtler sound. Consequently, while the Gravel and Morandi might share a similar emphasis on deep sound, they achieve this through different materials in their bottom housings.

In terms of overall sound profiles, while the Gravel and WS Morandi have differing materials for their top housings, there is an interesting interplay in their design. The polycarbonate tops of the Gravel do produce a brighter sound upon release, but this can be complemented by the deeper, fuller tones provided by its nylon base. In the case of the WS Morandi, its POM top, combined with a similarly muted bottom housing, results in a more uniform sound experience. If one were to utilize both switches, it would become clear that while they exhibit different sound characteristics, the combination of materials in each provides a unique but gratifying auditory experience, showcasing how different material properties can lead to varied yet pleasing outcomes.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Gravel features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the WS Morandi has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial feel that some users might prefer for a more tactile and robust typing experience. Consequently, the Gravel switch allows for less resistance during keystrokes, which may contribute to comfort during lengthy use, while the WS Morandi caters to those who appreciate a firmer push. Overall, the Gravel is the lighter option, whereas the WS Morandi is the heavier choice, catering to different user preferences.

Travel distance

Both the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch feature an identical travel distance of 3.5 mm, meaning that users will experience the same amount of key travel when pressing down on either switch. This similarity ensures that both switches will provide a comparable tactile feedback and feel during usage, which can be crucial for those seeking a consistent typing experience. Since their travel distances are equal, users can expect similar performance and responsiveness when using either switch.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the HMX Gravel switch is characterized by a gentle and polished auditory footprint, although specific descriptors are not provided, it implies a balanced and neutral acoustic experience. In contrast, the WS Morandi switches are noted for their low-pitched, subdued, and thocky qualities, presenting a bass-heavy and satisfying sound signature. This combination allows the Morandi to produce a deep and rich auditory response when typing, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy a pronounced auditory feedback. Despite these distinctions, the overall sound experience can vary depending on additional factors such as the keyboard's build and keycap material used, suggesting that users might find similar sound results with either switch in a well-chosen setup.

When it comes to feel, the HMX Gravel offers an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience, presenting a medium-light actuation force that promotes effortless engagement. Conversely, the WS Morandi switches provide a sensory experience that is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, indicating a highly smooth, fluid keystroke with minimal resistance. While the Gravel excels in facilitating quick and responsive typing, the Morandi's luxurious and gliding feel can be attributed to its unique materials, creating an inviting tactile sensation. While one accentuates smoothness in a more straightforward manner, the other incorporates a nuanced pleasurable experience in its operation, rendering both switches distinctly appealing across different user preferences.

In conclusion, the HMX Gravel linear switch is designed to offer a smooth and refined typing experience ideally suited for enthusiasts seeking responsive keystrokes. The WS Morandi linear switch, with its innovative design and airy smoothness, complements this with a more luxurious tactile quality and a subdued yet rich sound profile. Both options cater to different aspects of the typing experience, allowing users to choose according to their preferences, whether it be the immediate responsiveness of the Gravel or the creamy smoothness of the Morandi. Ultimately, both switches can yield satisfying results, showcasing the diverse range of experiences available in the mechanical keyboard spectrum.

Conclusion

To sum up, choosing between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a lighter actuation force with a focus on smoothness and responsiveness, the Gravel switch is likely your best bet. With its 50-gram bottom-out force, you can expect an effortless typing experience that's ideal for long hours of work or gaming. The Gravel’s refined smoothness will appeal to those who appreciate an undisturbed and fluid keystroke. On the other hand, if you favor a slightly heavier typing resistance, coupled with a refined sound profile and visually appealing RGB light performance, the WS Morandi may be more suited for you. Its 60-gram bottom-out force provides a medium feel, complemented by a rich, thocky sound that enhances tactile feedback while typing. Moreover, the Morandi's unique buttery, creamy texture contributes to a delightful typing experience, making it an excellent choice for both aesthetics and feel. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize a lighter touch and smooth action or favor a bit more resistance and a distinctive sound profile.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Gravel Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Wuque Studio WS Morandi Linear

$4.30

$3.90 per 10

Learn more