HMX Hibiscus vs. Wuque Studio WS Dash
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Hibiscus and the Wuque Studio WS Dash offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The HMX Hibiscus, known for its ultra-light actuation force and exceptional smoothness, delivers a typing experience that feels effortless and satisfying. This linear switch is particularly appealing for those who prioritize speed and a quiet environment, as it features a clacky, poppy, and crisp sound signature that still keeps noise levels manageable. In contrast, the WS Dash Hall Effect switch introduces a unique technological twist with its magnetic actuation, ensuring a smooth keystroke that feels both refined and responsive. This vibrant switch not only offers a bright and clacky sound but also provides longevity and durability. Both switches have their merits; while the Hibiscus may attract users looking for speed and a traditional feel, the WS Dash caters to those seeking innovation and a tactile experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T3
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Hibiscus and the Wuque Studio WS Dash, a notable contrast arises primarily from their top housing composition. The Hibiscus utilizes nylon for its top housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. This feature is due to nylon's softer plastic texture that absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials, creating a rounded sound experience that many typists enjoy. In contrast, the WS Dash employs polycarbonate for its top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant typing experience. Thus, while both switches feature distinct sound profiles, the Hibiscus is suited for those who prefer a muted, rounded auditory feedback, whereas the WS Dash appeals to users looking for a more articulate and pronounced sound.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, both switches incorporate nylon, establishing a common ground in sound experience. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both models leads to a consistent deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon’s properties effectively absorb sound and mitigate harshness. This shared characteristic means that regardless of the differences in their top housing materials, users will still experience a similar auditory sensation in the bottom-out phase when pressing the keys. In this regard, both switches offer a familiar typing experience that will likely satisfy the tastes of typists who appreciate a rounded auditory feedback during keypresses.
In conclusion, while the HMX Hibiscus and Wuque Studio WS Dash differ in their top housing materials—nylon versus polycarbonate—their nylon bottom housings create a synergy that provides a cohesive typing experience. This interplay means that typists can enjoy the benefits of a deeper sound profile from the nylon bottom, regardless of the crisper or fuller nuances introduced by the differing top housing materials. Therefore, enthusiasts seeking varied auditory profiles can find satisfaction in both switches, as they each bring unique characteristics to the typing landscape while still retaining a core similarity in their performance.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, notable differences arise. The Hibiscus features a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it relatively easy to press down for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the WS Dash has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams, which further contributes to its medium-light status, but it has a higher bottom out force of 55 grams, indicating a firmer feel when bottoming out. This contrasts with the Hibiscus, where both forces are lower. Therefore, the WS Dash requires less effort initially to actuate but provides a heavier feel upon bottoming out compared to the Hibiscus. Ultimately, for users who favor longer typing sessions with a softer key press, the Hibiscus may be more suitable, while those seeking more feedback from their switches might prefer the WS Dash despite its overall lighter actuation force.
Travel distance
The HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch both feature a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them identical in this respect. Since both switches travel the same distance from top to bottom when pressed, users can expect a similar tactile experience regardless of the switch they choose. This uniformity in travel distance may result in comparable key feel and response, allowing for consistent performance in typing or gaming scenarios.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus for $2.99.
The Wuque Studio WS Dash comes in at $7.49 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Hibiscus switches produce a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, making them not only enjoyable to type on but also pleasing to the ear. Likewise, the WS Dash switches feature a bright and clacky sound profile, which complements their design as Hall Effect switches. Both switches share a similar auditory appeal, characterized by their clacky tones, which can create a lively typing environment. However, the overall sound experience will also depend on external factors like the keyboard's build and the choice of keycaps, meaning that while both switches excel in sound, the final output may vary.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Hibiscus switches are celebrated for their ultra-light actuation force and unparalleled smoothness, delivering a pristine typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Dash switches are designed to provide a silky smooth keystroke, which suggests a similarly effortless typing experience. Both switches seem to prioritize smoothness, making for a comfortable and enjoyable feel. While the Hibiscus is noted for its ultra-light actuation, the WS Dash's lightweight Hall Effect mechanism also contributes to this smooth feeling, encouraging fluid typing motions.
In conclusion, both the HMX Hibiscus and Wuque Studio WS Dash switches offer a captivating combination of clackiness in sound and smoothness in feel, making them strong contenders for anyone seeking an enjoyable typing experience. While the Hibiscus is renowned for its ultra-light actuation and specific sound signature, the WS Dash brings its own refinements with silky keystrokes and a bright audio profile. Those choosing between these switches can expect a pleasurable typing experience from either switch, with similarities in sound and feel ensuring satisfaction regardless of the choice made.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, consider your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you enjoy a particularly lightweight switch that provides an exceptionally smooth and responsive feel, the Hibiscus might be your go-to choice, especially with its alluringly clacky sound profile that adds a pleasurable auditory element to your typing experience. This switch is perfect for fast typists or gamers who crave light actuation and a quick return, making it ideal for rapid keystrokes and high-speed gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly firmer feel with a medium-light actuation and value a more refined sound, the WS Dash is an excellent choice. Its tactile feedback coupled with a bright and clacky sound signature can enhance your overall typing experience, making it well-suited for both casual typing and competitive gaming. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns with how you best enjoy your keyboard experience.
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