HMX Gravel vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl

Overview

When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the attributes of various options, including the HMX Gravel and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl. The HMX Gravel switch is renowned for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing feel, featuring a medium-light actuation force that creates a responsive and effortless typing experience; it’s an excellent choice for those who value a light touch while maintaining a satisfying keyboard engagement. In contrast, the WS Pearl switch distinguishes itself with a unique design that incorporates ball-bearings to significantly reduce friction during keystrokes, resulting in an almost surreal smoothness. With a medium-high pitched sound signature, the WS Pearl also adds a distinctive auditory element to the typing experience. While both switches fall into the linear category and offer smooth keystrokes, their individual characteristics cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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 Pearl Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$6.00 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Gravel and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl, a clear distinction can be observed between their top components. The Gravel utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiff properties that contribute to a sharper and crisper sound profile when typing. This feature is enhanced by its translucency, making it an excellent choice for showcasing RGB lighting effectively. Conversely, the WS Pearl employs a nylon top housing, a traditional material that yields a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This absorption of sound results in a more rounded auditory experience, illustrating a significant difference in the sound characteristics each switch can produce when engaged.

While the top housings differ significantly in material and resultant acoustic quality, both switches share a similarity in their bottom housing, as both utilize nylon. This commonality means that the experience in terms of sound and feel when bottoming out keys will be consistent between the two switches. Nylon’s inherent properties allow for a cushioned feel, absorbing impact and resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile for both the Gravel and the WS Pearl. As a result, although the overall acoustic signature varies due to the top housing, the bottom-out sound will be more aligned, ensuring a similarity in foundational feel and feedback for users.

In conclusion, although there are nuances in the sound and feel of the HMX Gravel and Wuque Studio WS Pearl due to their differing top housings, the use of nylon for the bottom housing creates a cohesive sound profile during the typing process. While the Gravel’s polycarbonate top contributes to a more crystalline and resonant sound during key release, the WS Pearl delivers a fuller auditory experience overall. Ultimately, both switches can provide satisfying tactile experiences while typing, with their unique combinations of materials allowing enthusiasts to select based on their specific auditory preferences.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Gravel has an actuation force of 45 grams, which means it requires a moderate amount of force to register a keystroke, while the WS Pearl is even lighter at an actuation force of just 30 grams. This makes the Gravel the heavier option in terms of actuation force, catering to users who might prefer a bit more resistance for a substantial typing feel. In terms of bottom out forces, the Gravel also achieves a lower 50 grams compared to the WS Pearl's 58 grams, indicating that the Pearl requires a greater force to press all the way down. This difference highlights the Gravel's lighter overall feel, suitable for extended typing sessions, while the WS Pearl, with its medium actuation and heavier bottom out force, might be favored by users looking for a stronger tactile feedback. Overall, those seeking a lighter switch may gravitate towards the WS Pearl, whereas those who desire a firmer push should consider the Gravel.

Travel distance

Both the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch feature an identical travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that users can expect a similar keystroke feel when pressing down on either switch, providing a consistent typing or gaming experience. Since the travel distances are the same, both switches will yield comparable responsiveness and actuation, making them equally effective for users who prefer a linear switch profile. Overall, with identical travel distances, switching between the two won't alter the tactile experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Gravel linear switches produce a sound profile that tends to be on the quieter side, allowing for discreet typing sessions and making them suitable for shared environments. Meanwhile, the WS Pearl linear switches exhibit a medium-high pitched sound signature, which can provide a satisfying auditory feedback during use. However, it’s important to note that the overall sound of each switch can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard’s construction and the choice of keycaps, so both switches may sound different depending on these variables.

Regarding feel, the Gravel switches are notable for their exceptional smoothness and a refined typing experience, characterized by a medium-light actuation force that favors a lighter touch. This results in a responsive and effortless typing experience that is appealing for long typing sessions. Conversely, the WS Pearl switches also aim for an ultra-smooth feel, enhanced by the innovative use of ball-bearings, which minimizes friction during keystrokes. This unique characteristic allows the WS Pearl to deliver a typing experience that users often describe as surreally smooth, making both switches attractive options for tactile feedback enthusiasts.

In conclusion, both the HMX Gravel and WS Pearl linear switches offer distinct benefits, catering to different preferences. The Gravel excels in its quieter and refined typing experience, while the WS Pearl stands out with its unique ball-bearing design that contributes to its smoothness and higher-pitched sound. For newcomers exploring mechanical keyboards, the choice between these switches will largely come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, as both can deliver enjoyable typing experiences, albeit in differing ways.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, your choice should be guided by your personal preferences in terms of actuation force, smoothness, and overall feel. If you prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gravel switch’s 50 grams of bottom out force makes it an appealing option, offering a finely-tuned, responsive typing feel that’s great for long typing sessions and fast-paced gaming. Its exceptional smoothness enhances overall comfort, making it ideal for those who prioritize a streamlined experience over heavier force. On the other hand, if you appreciate a bit more resistance with a medium bottom out force of 58 grams, the WS Pearl switch might be your go-to. Its unique ball-bearing mechanism reduces friction and contributes to an almost surreal smoothness, while producing a higher-pitched sound signature that many typists find satisfying. The choice ultimately depends on your preference for engagement and feedback: gravitating towards the Gravel for lighter, more relaxed typing, or opting for the WS Pearl for a more substantial tactile experience. Consider your typing habits and preferences, and choose accordingly to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Gravel Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Wuque Studio WS Pearl Linear

$6.00 per 10

Learn more