HMX Hibiscus vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the HMX Hibiscus and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile hinges on personal preference and typing style. The HMX Hibiscus, a linear switch, is celebrated for its ultra-light actuation force and exceptional smoothness, making it a delightful option for those who prioritize effortless keystrokes and a satisfying clacky, poppy sound signature. This switch is ideal for users who enjoy a fast-paced typing experience or gaming, where quick actions and seamless transitions are crucial. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile switch offers a delightful tactile bump that provides feedback as you type, enhancing the overall experience without sacrificing smoothness. Its neutral sound signature makes it a versatile choice for both quiet office environments and dynamic gaming sessions alike. Ultimately, your decision may come down to whether you prefer the unbroken flow of the Hibiscus or the gratifying tactile response of the WS Light Tactile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Hibiscus and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile, notable differences emerge primarily in the top housing. The Hibiscus features a nylon top housing, known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, creating a more muffled auditory experience. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile employs a polycarbonate top housing, famous for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffer composition of polycarbonate allows for a clearer and more resonant sound profile, making it an appealing choice for configurations that incorporate RGB lighting due to its translucency.
In terms of the bottom housings, both the HMX Hibiscus and the WS Light Tactile utilize nylon. This uniformity means they will exhibit similar acoustic characteristics when pressed, as the nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Since the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel, users can expect a consistent tactile experience from both switches at the base level, with the function of both switches feeling relatively comparable upon keystroke.
However, the overall feel and sound experience of the switches will differ between the two thanks to their contrasting top housing materials. The Hibiscus, with its nylon top, creates a more subdued auditory experience when a key is released, while the WS Light Tactile's polycarbonate top produces a clearer and sharper sound during the same action. As a result, while both switches share a consistent foundation in their bottom housing, the varying properties of the top housings lead to distinct acoustic profiles, allowing users to choose based on their personal auditory preferences and the aesthetic needs of their setups.
Weight
The HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch both feature light actuation and bottom out forces, but they differ subtly in their specifications. The Hibiscus has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the WS Light Tactile requires a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Hibiscus switch is the lighter option overall, making it more comfortable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile provides a marginally heavier feel, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Despite their differences in force, users of both switches will likely find a relatively similar level of comfort and performance, albeit with the Hibiscus switch offering a bit less resistance during use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, the differences are notable. The Hibiscus has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the WS Light Tactile's travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Hibiscus the more responsive option, appealing to gamers who favor quicker actuation for fast-paced gaming. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial feel and feedback, which is preferred by those who enjoy a deeper keystroke sensation. Thus, if you want a quicker response, the Hibiscus is the way to go, while the WS Light Tactile may be better suited for those who appreciate a more pronounced tactile experience.
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 Light Tactile comes in at $4.20 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 comparing the sound profile of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, there are notable differences that cater to various preferences. The Hibiscus switch is characterized by a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, which adds an engaging auditory experience to typing. This lively sound can make interactions with the keyboard more enjoyable and expressive. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile switch boasts a neutral sound profile. This characteristic makes it versatile, suitable for a variety of environments, whether you are a beginner or an advanced typist. The neutral sound ensures that it doesn't become disruptive during use, making it ideal for office settings or shared spaces.
In terms of feel, the HMX Hibiscus switch is known for its unparalleled smoothness, contributing to a pristine typing experience. With an ultra-light actuation force that surpasses 80% of all switches, it allows for effortless keystrokes that encourage long typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch features a stepped tactile feel, providing a perceptible bump that allows typists to notice the actuation point. This switch is designed to be easy to press, offering gentle resistance, which further enhances comfort during use while minimizing finger fatigue. In summary, the Hibiscus offers an ultra-smooth experience with a light touch, while the WS Light Tactile provides a tactile landmark for better keystroke awareness.
Overall, both the HMX Hibiscus and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches have their unique charm, catering to different typing preferences and scenarios. The Hibiscus appeals to those seeking auditory engagement and a silky smooth feel, while the WS Light Tactile is perfect for users who appreciate tactile feedback along with a more neutral soundscape. Ultimately, the choice between them comes down to whether one prioritizes smoothness and sound or tactile sensation and versatility in various environments.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch largely depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you value an ultra-smooth, linear feel with minimal resistance and are looking for a playful, clacky sound signature, the HMX Hibiscus will likely delight you. This switch is particularly suited for gaming or rapid typing where you want fast actuation without any tactile resistance. On the other hand, if you prefer a bit of feedback with each keystroke, the WS Light Tactile should be your go-to. Its snappy, stepped actuation provides a satisfying tactile bump, making it ideal for typing long documents or programming, where precision and feedback are key. Additionally, its neutral sound profile makes it versatile enough for both office environments and home use, without disturbing those around you. In the end, both switches offer light actuation forces and comfort, but your choice hinges on whether you prioritize a smooth, linear experience or a tactile sensation during typing.
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