HMX Jelly vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often comes down to personal preference, and the HMX Jelly and Wuque Studio WS Pearl are two exceptional linear options that cater to different tastes. The HMX Jelly switch is celebrated for its low-pitched, deep, and thocky sound signature, combined with a lightweight 42g actuation force that offers a smooth and responsive typing experience. In contrast, the WS Pearl switch brings a unique innovation to the table with its ball-bearing mechanism, significantly reducing friction during keystrokes and delivering a surreally smooth feel with a medium-high pitched sound signature. Those who value an effortless typing experience and a satisfying auditory feedback might gravitate towards the Jelly, while enthusiasts seeking cutting-edge design and a heavenly smooth keystroke may find the Pearl irresistible. Ultimately, both switches offer their distinct benefits, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Jelly Linear

Wuque Studio WS Pearl Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$6.00 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Jelly and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl both feature nylon top and bottom housings, which is noteworthy as it indicates a similarity in the core material used for both products. Nylon is recognized as a classic switch housing material and profoundly influences the acoustic and tactile experience when typing. With both the Jelly and WS Pearl embodying this characteristic, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon lends itself to better sound absorption compared to harder plastics, allowing for a duller and rounder sound that augments the overall typing experience by minimizing sharp or clicky sounds.

When focusing on the bottom housing, both the Jelly and WS Pearl once again demonstrate consistency in their use of nylon, contributing similarly to the bottom-out sound and feel. As described, the bottom housing has a significant impact on how users perceive the key's feedback upon actuation. In both cases, the nylon material's properties ensure a smooth typing transition, further reinforcing the deeper sound profile that users can expect. Therefore, the performance of the switches in terms of tactile feedback and acoustic output will remain closely aligned, regardless of the switch design.

Considering the implications of using nylon in both the top and bottom housings, it becomes clear that users of either switch will obtain a similar result in terms of sound and tactile performance. Since both the HMX Jelly and Wuque Studio WS Pearl utilize nylon extensively, the result is a cohesive acoustic and tactile ecosystem that benefits typing comfort. Whether one opts for the Jelly or the WS Pearl, both will deliver an experience marked by the warm, absorbed sound signature that nylon inherently provides, thus ensuring that regardless of personal preference or design, the essence of the typing experience will remain consistently appealing.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The HMX Jelly features a light actuation force of 42 grams, which makes it easier to trigger keystrokes, complemented by a bottom out force of 48 grams. In contrast, the WS Pearl has a lighter actuation force of only 30 grams, offering a softer feel when typing; however, it has a heavier bottom out force of 58 grams, requiring more strength to press the key all the way down. This means that while the Jelly provides a lighter overall experience, the Pearl, with its distinct actuation and bottom out forces, may offer a more substantial typing feel favored by those who prefer a heavier switch. Ultimately, if you're looking for light typing with less fatigue, the HMX Jelly may be the ideal choice, while the WS Pearl may suit users who enjoy a firmer keystroke experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, one can observe a notable difference. The Jelly features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it the longer option, while the WS Pearl has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This indicates that the Jelly may offer a more pronounced tactile experience, which some users prefer for a deeper feel. In contrast, the WS Pearl, with its shorter travel distance, could be more suitable for gamers seeking quicker actuation and faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference: if you favor a pronounced depth, the Jelly is the better option; however, for those who prioritize speed and responsiveness, the WS Pearl may be the ideal pick.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Jelly linear switch produces a low-pitched, deep, thocky sound that adds a warm character to each keystroke. This sound profile is satisfying and serves to enhance the typing experience, particularly for those who appreciate a more subdued audio feedback. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch offers a medium-high pitched sound signature that can feel more pronounced and crisp compared to the Jelly’s deeper tones. This difference in auditory response can complement various setups, with the choice between a muffled thock and a sharper sound depending on user preference. It’s important to consider that sound quality can be influenced by the keyboard’s construction and the type of keycaps used, so individual experiences may vary.

When we examine the feel of each switch, the Jelly stands out for its super smooth keystrokes, thanks to its excellent factory lube and lightweight 42g actuation force. This combination allows for effortless typing, making it appealing for users who type rapidly or engage in long typing sessions. On the other hand, the WS Pearl takes smoothness to another level by incorporating ball-bearings that reduce friction during keypresses, resulting in a surreally smooth experience. This innovation can make the Pearl feel lighter and more enjoyable for those who prioritize fluid motion in their typing experience. While both switches deliver smoothness, the different methods of achieving this contribute to their unique tactile experiences.

Overall, the HMX Jelly and Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switches each offer distinctive sound and feel characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Jelly’s deep thocky sound and effortless typability promote a warm, satisfying experience, while the WS Pearl’s crisp sound and ball-bearing smoothness create a unique touch that may appeal to those seeking a more technologically advanced feel. Both switches ensure a high-quality typing experience, whether you lean toward a more traditional auditory feedback or the innovative smoothness of modern designs. Ultimately, your choice between these two will depend on whether you favor the deeper tones of the Jelly or the pronounced clarity of the WS Pearl, as well as the specific tactile sensation that each provides.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the typing experience you seek. If you prefer a lighter switch with a smooth keystroke and a satisfying low-pitched thock sound, the Jelly might be the better option for you. Its lower actuation force of 42 grams and bottom-out force of just 48 grams make it suitable for extended typing sessions where you want to reduce finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you value a more solid feel and sound profile, along with a slightly firmer keystroke, the WS Pearl would be your best bet. With a medium bottom-out force of 58 grams and its unique ball-bearing design that enhances smoothness, the Pearls can provide a distinct, high-pitched sound and tactile feedback that some users find preferable. Ultimately, consider whether you lean towards a lighter touch and deeper sound with the Jelly, or a firmer feel paired with a uniquely smooth action from the WS Pearl as you make your decision.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Jelly Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Wuque Studio WS Pearl Linear

$6.00 per 10

Learn more