HMX Hibiscus vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often comes down to personal preference, and two standout options in the linear category are the HMX Hibiscus and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi. The HMX Hibiscus switches are celebrated for their incredibly smooth typing experience, offering an ultra-light actuation force that surpasses 80% of all switches, paired with a satisfyingly clacky and poppy sound signature that adds a lively element to your typing. In contrast, the WS Morandi switches emphasize innovation and aesthetics with a light column design that enhances RGB visuals, along with an airy smoothness delivered by their unique UPE stems. While the Hibiscus switches provide an engaging auditory experience, the WS Morandi leans toward a more muted sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a quieter workspace. Both switches have their unique allure—whether it's the Hibiscus's satisfying tactile feedback or the Morandi's elegant design—but the decision ultimately hinges on what type of typing experience resonates with you. 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 Hibiscus Linear

Wuque Studio WS Morandi Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$4.30

$3.90 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Hibiscus and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi feature different materials for their switch housings, each contributing to distinct sound profiles. The Hibiscus utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound characteristic. Being a softer plastic, nylon effectively absorbs sound, leading to a duller and more rounded auditory experience. This sound profile is ideal for users looking for a more subdued acoustic feedback while typing, as it provides a satisfying and immersive typing experience.

In contrast, the WS Morandi uses POM for both its top and bottom housings. POM, or polyoxymethylene, is known for its unique acoustic properties, producing a deeper yet more muted sound profile. The result is a typing experience that, while still rich, has slightly less resonance than that of the Hibiscus, appealing to users who may prefer a less overwhelming sound. POM’s hardness allows for a more distinct tactile feedback during keystrokes, which some users might find beneficial for typing accuracy. Thus, while both switches produce a rich audio experience, the nuances in material lead to different user experiences.

Despite the differences in materials, both housing types—nylon for the Hibiscus and POM for the Morandi—exhibit a capacity to deliver pleasing sound profiles while affecting the switch's acoustic feedback and feel. If a user seeks similar sound results between the two, it is crucial to pay attention to how the materials interact during key presses and releases. With the Hibiscus, the nylon engages more significantly during the bottoming-out phase, while the Morandi's POM excels in providing a certain clarity in sound upon releasing the keys. As such, while distinct, both housing materials can achieve satisfying results that cater to varying auditory preferences, based on individual typing styles.

Weight

The HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch present distinct characteristics in their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different typing preferences. The Hibiscus features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize comfort during lengthy typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the WS Morandi offers a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial tactile experience and a firmer keystroke feedback. While both switches provide satisfactory performance, the Hibiscus's lighter feel may provide more agility and endurance, whereas the Morandi’s heavier resistance could enhance the overall typing experience for users seeking a more robust switch. Thus, if you prefer a lighter switch, the HMX Hibiscus is the way to go, while the WS Morandi would be more suitable for individuals who favor a firmer touch.

Travel distance

Both the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch feature an identical travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that users pressing down on either switch will experience the same distance of key travel, resulting in similar tactile feedback and overall performance. Consequently, individuals can expect a consistent experience in terms of actuation for both switches, making them equally effective choices for those who prefer linear switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Hibiscus switch's profile is characterized by a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy tone that gives feedback with every keystroke, appealing to those who enjoy an auditory response while typing. This sound is particularly engaging and may make typists feel more connected to the keyboard. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switch presents a muted sound profile defined by low-pitched, subdued characteristics. Although it might not deliver the same auditory excitement, its thocky nature contributes to a deep and rich tone complemented by the more bass-heavy quality, making it less intrusive while still offering a pleasant auditory experience. It's important to note that the final sound also depends on other factors like the keyboard build and keycaps used.

When considering the feel of these switches, the HMX Hibiscus excels with an ultra-light actuation force, which typically enhances the perception of smoothness and quick typing speeds. This quality gives a unique typing experience that is hard to match. Conversely, the WS Morandi switches thrive on delivering an airy smoothness that feels buttery, creamy, and silky, making each keystroke seem effortless and fluid. This smoothness could be attributed to the material and design choices, yielding a delightful sensation during use. Both switch types aim to provide an enjoyable typing experience but do so through different tactile nuances, appealing to varied preferences in feel.

Overall, while both the HMX Hibiscus and WS Morandi switches cater to enthusiasts seeking smoothness and satisfying auditory feedback, they do so in distinct ways. The Hibiscus stands out with its engaging sound and lightweight feel, while the WS Morandi focuses on a more subdued sound and an exceptionally smooth typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prefer a more vibrant auditory connection or a refined, quiet typing atmosphere, both of which can be very rewarding in their own right.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the HMX Hibiscus and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a lighter switch for a swift and ultra-smooth typing experience, the Hibiscus is an excellent choice, particularly ideal for fast-paced typists and gamers who thrive on rapid key presses. Its satisfying clacky and crispy sound signature adds an engaging auditory dimension that can enhance your typing sessions. However, if you prefer a slightly firmer resistive feel, the WS Morandi offers a medium 60-gram actuation force with enhanced tactile feedback. The emphasis on a more subdued and thocky sound profile makes it suitable for quieter environments or those who appreciate a softer typing experience without sacrificing smoothness. Additionally, the aesthetic appeal of the WS Morandi, especially for RGB enthusiasts, makes it a compelling option for those looking to elevate their keyboard's visual presentation. Thus, you should weigh these factors based on your specific needs, whether that be the Hibiscus's lightweight and lively nature or the Morandi's balanced and refined typing characteristics.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Hibiscus Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Wuque Studio WS Morandi Linear

$4.30

$3.90 per 10

Learn more