HMX Hibiscus vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Hibiscus and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile offer distinctly different experiences tailored to specific user preferences. The HMX Hibiscus is celebrated for its ultra-light actuation force, making each keystroke feel effortlessly smooth, while its clacky and poppy sound profile adds an engaging auditory dimension to typing. This makes it an excellent choice for enthusiasts who prioritize speed and a lively typing experience. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile switch is engineered for environments where noise reduction is paramount. With its medium tactility and innovative design that eliminates silicone dampeners, this switch provides a satisfying tactile feedback without compromising on quiet operation, making it perfect for office settings. Ultimately, selecting between these two switches hinges on your specific use case—whether you crave the exhilarating response of the Hibiscus or the subdued elegance of the WS Silent Tactile. 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
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
T3
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Hibiscus and Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile keyboards both utilize nylon for their top and bottom switch housings, which significantly influences their acoustic and tactile performance. The choice of nylon contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its inherent properties as a softer plastic. This material effectively absorbs sound vibrations more than harder plastics would, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience during typing. As a result, both keyboards deliver similar auditory characteristics that appeal to users seeking a quieter typing experience, particularly valuable in office environments or shared spaces.
When observing the bottom housings of the HMX Hibiscus and WS Silent Tactile, they also share the same nylon composition, which maintains consistency in sound dampening and tactile feedback. The bottom housing plays a critical role in the bottom-out sound and overall feel of the switch when pressed. With both keyboards employing nylon, users can expect a harmonious interaction between the top and bottom switch components, ensuring that the muted and rounded sound profile remains intact as they engage with the keys. This shared material prevents any disruptive contrasts in tactile sensation or acoustic output during usage.
It is noteworthy that while both the Hibiscus and WS Silent Tactile utilize identical nylon materials throughout their switch housings, the relationship between the top and bottom components still allows for nuanced performance characteristics. The top housing subtly influences the sound produced when a key is released, while the bottom housing impacts the response felt during the actuation. Consequently, even with the same materials in play, variations in switch design, such as actuation force or travel distance, could lead to differing user experiences. However, the shared nylon construction ensures that both keyboards promise a rich sound profile and consistent tactile satisfaction, appealing to users who value a refined typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch, significant differences emerge. The Hibiscus features a relatively light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions or extensive gaming, as it reduces finger fatigue. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile switch has an unknown actuation force but a notably heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience favored by those who prefer tactile feedback and a firmer press. Consequently, the Hibiscus switch is the lighter option, while the WS Silent Tactile is heavier. This distinction indicates that users prioritizing comfort during lengthy use might gravitate toward the Hibiscus, whereas those seeking more feedback in their keystrokes may prefer the heavier WS Silent Tactile switch.
Travel distance
The HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch both share the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on either switch, users will experience identical tactile feedback and keypress depth, resulting in a consistent typing experience. Therefore, if you're accustomed to one switch, transitioning to the other will yield similar results in terms of actuation feel and key response, making either switch a suitable choice based on personal preference for linear versus tactile feedback.
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 Silent 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Hibiscus linear switch is known for its satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, which can add a pleasing auditory feedback to the typing experience. This distinctive sound makes it an appealing choice for those who enjoy the characteristic acoustic profile of mechanical switches. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch is designed for environments where noise is a concern, providing a muted and neutral sound profile. The precision-engineered stem railings of the WS Silent Tactile ensure a quieter operation than the Hibiscus, making it ideal for office settings where distraction minimalization is key. While the Hibiscus offers a lively soundscape, the WS Silent Tactile focuses on a harmonious blend of quietness and functionality.
When considering the feel of these switches, the HMX Hibiscus provides an unrivaled smoothness that characterizes it as a linear switch, known for its effortless keystrokes. However, the WS Silent Tactile offers a medium tactility that strikes a balance between mild and invigorating feedback, making it perfect for typists who appreciate some tactile feedback without it being overwhelming. The accentuated tactility of the WS Silent Tactile is complemented by a snappy, reactive feel that remains approachable, allowing for a satisfying typing experience while still being gentle on the fingers. While the Hibiscus focuses more on a smooth keypress, the WS Silent Tactile creates an immersive typing sensation through its carefully crafted tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the choice between the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch comes down to your personal preferences in sound and feel. If you enjoy a lively, crisp auditory experience with buttery smooth keypresses, the Hibiscus is your go-to option. Conversely, if your typing requirements lean towards a quieter, more subtle tactile sensation suitable for shared workspaces, the WS Silent Tactile will fulfill that need. Ultimately, both switches have unique qualities that cater to different typing environments and user preferences, enabling you to choose a switch that matches your desired experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch ultimately hinges on your specific preferences and typing environment. If you’re someone who enjoys a lightweight and smooth typing experience, especially for gaming or rapid typing tasks, the Hibiscus will be an excellent choice. Its ultra-light actuation force and satisfying sound profile make it ideal for creating a fun and engaging typing atmosphere. On the other hand, if you prioritize a balance between tactile feedback and noise reduction—perhaps for an office setting or shared spaces—the WS Silent Tactile switch is the way to go. Its medium-heavy actuation force and muted sound allow for precise responsiveness without the audible clatter often associated with mechanical keyboards. In essence, choose the Hibiscus for its effortless smoothness and lively sound when you want a more expressive typing experience, and opt for the WS Silent Tactile when you seek comfort coupled with discretion in sound, ensuring a productive and pleasant typing environment.
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