HMX Gravel vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the HMX Gravel and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular contenders in the linear category are the HMX Gravel and the Wuque Studio WS Red. The HMX Gravel switches are celebrated for their exceptional smoothness and refined typing experience, boasting a medium-light actuation force that promotes a responsive touch and a nearly effortless keystroke. This makes them an attractive option for those who prioritize a fluid typing feel without excessive resistance. On the other hand, the WS Red switches incorporate a 22mm double-stage spring, which lends a bouncy and noticeable responsiveness alongside a heavier actuation force. This means that while they demand a bit more effort to press down, they provide a satisfying and substantial typing experience that can enhance the tactile feedback for users who appreciate a weightier keystroke. Both switches have distinct characteristics that 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 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 double-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Gravel and the Wuque Studio WS Red exhibit distinct differences in their top housing materials, which significantly influence their sound profiles. The Gravel utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and transparency, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This characteristic allows light to pass through effectively, making it particularly advantageous for keyboard enthusiasts who appreciate RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Red employs a nylon top housing, a traditional material valued for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon results in an absorption of sound, leading to a rounder auditory experience that diverges from the clarity offered by polycarbonate.
Interestingly, both switches share nylon as their bottom housing material, which creates a consistent auditory experience. The nylon bottom housing of both the HMX Gravel and WS Red contributes to a deeper sound profile that aligns with the inherent qualities of nylon. Regardless of the differences in the top housing materials, the bottom housings ensure that users will experience a similar, rich sound during key presses. This similarity in bottom housing design emphasizes the importance of the bottom-out sound, as both models provide a unified acoustic foundation that complements their individual top housings.
Ultimately, while the HMX Gravel and Wuque Studio WS Red showcase contrasting sound profiles due to their varying top housing materials—crisp and clear against deep and full—their shared nylon bottom housing helps bridge the gap between the two. The overall typing experience will combine the effects of both housings, resulting in a multifaceted sound signature. Users can expect a pronounced bottom-out texture due to the nylon, paired with either a more resonant sound if using the Gravel or a fuller sound profile with the WS Red. This synthesis of materials allows for experimentation with the unique strengths offered by each switch while delivering satisfying auditory results regardless of the choice.
Weight
The HMX Gravel linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch present notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gravel switch features a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who favor a lighter typing experience, ideal for long work hours or gaming sessions. In contrast, the WS Red switch has an unknown actuation force but has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. This disparity suggests that the WS Red switch would typically offer a more substantial typing feel, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push while typing. Therefore, while the Gravel switch is lighter and more conducive to extended use, the WS Red switch caters to users seeking a firmer experience. Given that the actuation force of the WS Red is unknown, it's difficult to compare their overall feel directly, but the differences in bottom out force highlight the Gravel's lighter nature versus the heavier feel of the WS Red switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, we see a clear distinction: the Gravel features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the WS Red boasts a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that if you're looking for a more responsive typing or gaming experience, the HMX Gravel may be the better option due to its shorter travel distance, which can facilitate quicker key actuation. Conversely, the WS Red’s longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press, giving a sense of depth and feedback. Ultimately, choosing between the two comes down to personal preference regarding the feel of the switch; the Gravel offers a quicker response, while the WS Red provides a more pronounced actuation sensation.
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 Red 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
The sound profile of the HMX Gravel linear switch is characterized by a smooth and subdued tone, which is ideal for users who prefer a quieter typing experience. This switch's design minimizes the noise produced during key presses, making it well-suited for office environments or shared spaces. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Red switch has a slightly more pronounced sound due to its materials and construction. Its classic material blend generates a deeper and more resonant sound, adding a layer of acoustic feedback that some users find satisfying. However, it is essential to note that the final sound output is influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps, potentially blending the inherent qualities of each switch.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Gravel switch excels with its exceptional smoothness and a medium-light actuation force that contributes to a light and effortless typing experience. This results in a highly refined tactile sensation, making it great for both typists and gamers looking for swift key presses. On the other hand, the WS Red switch features a heavier actuation force combined with a 22mm double-stage spring that provides a bouncy and responsive typing experience. This weightier feel can offer a more substantial connection to your keystrokes, appealing to users who appreciate a firm response from their switches while typing or gaming.
In conclusion, the HMX Gravel and Wuque Studio WS Red switches present distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The Gravel offers a softer, quieter acoustic signature and an exceptionally smooth feel, making it ideal for users seeking a light and refined typing experience. In contrast, the WS Red provides a more resonant sound and a firm, bouncy feel suitable for those who enjoy a weightier response. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your typing style and whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both in your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, your personal preferences and typing style will guide your choice. If you enjoy a lighter actuation force and prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience, the Gravel is an excellent choice for you. Its 50-gram bottom-out force ensures that you can type with minimal resistance, making it perfect for long typing sessions or fast-paced gaming. Additionally, if you're looking for a refined feel that enhances your typing experience, the exceptional smoothness of the Gravel switches won't disappoint. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial and bouncy keystroke, the WS Red's heavier actuation force of 67 grams may be more to your liking. This increased resistance not only offers a satisfying tactile experience but also gives you more feedback with each press, which can be beneficial for typists who seek precision and control. Ultimately, both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so consider your typing habits and comfort levels when making your decision.
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