HMX Jelly vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the HMX Jelly and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Jelly and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ present intriguing options for those who prefer linear switches. The HMX Jelly is celebrated for its low-pitched, thocky sound signature and incredibly smooth operation, largely attributed to its superior factory lubrication. With a lightweight actuation force of just 42g, it provides a gentle typing experience that's perfect for extended use. In contrast, the WS POM+ offers an unparalleled typing experience with its all-POM construction, delivering a deep, satisfying thock sound and a buttery-smooth keystroke. While both switches excel in sound and smoothness, they appeal to different preferences in terms of sound profile and build material. Ultimately, the choice between the two may come down to personal preferences regarding acoustics and feel. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Jelly and Wuque Studio WS POM+ both feature unique housing materials that significantly influence their sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Jelly utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, which is known for its softer, more pliable nature. This characteristic contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the nylon absorbs sound waves more effectively than harder plastics. The result is a muted and rounder auditory experience when typing, making nylon a classic choice for those seeking a more subdued and rich keystroke sound. This uniformity in material across the Jelly's housing contributes to a cohesive sound experience throughout the keypress.
Conversely, the WS POM+ employs polyoxymethylene (POM) for its top and bottom housings. POM, like nylon, produces a distinctly deeper sound profile, but with its own unique tonal qualities that create a pleasing auditory experience. The description emphasizes that POM provides a relatively muted sound, which can be perceived as distinct from nylon's character despite both materials offering a deeper sound under pressure. The use of POM allows for interesting sound nuances, adding a layer of complexity not found in the Jelly, and it responds slightly differently to the act of pressing down on the key.
Despite these differences in materials, both the HMX Jelly and WS POM+ can yield a similar overall experience in terms of sound profile. Since the Jelly's nylon housing affects both the bottoming out and the release sound, and the WS POM+ provides its unique muted sound in the same regions, users can achieve a pleasing soundscape with either switch. The interactions between the top and bottom housing in both designs ensure that the qualities of each material remain present during use, allowing for enjoyable typing regardless of the specific housing materials used. Thus, while there are notable contrasts between nylon and POM, the end result can be similarly satisfying for users seeking a deeper sound experience.
Weight
The HMX Jelly linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch exhibit some differences in both actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for varying preferences among typists and gamers. The Jelly switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the WS POM+, which requires an actuation force of 45 grams. This difference indicates that the Jelly switch is easier to activate, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons where comfort is key. Furthermore, the bottom out force of the Jelly is 48 grams, while the WS POM+ has a bottom out force of 55 grams, reinforcing the Jelly's reputation as the lighter option. Consequently, users who favor a softer touch may prefer the HMX Jelly switch, whereas those looking for a more substantial feel should consider the WS POM+. Overall, the contrasting actuation and bottom out forces highlight the distinct characteristics of both switches, catering to different user preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Jelly linear switch with that of the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, there is a clear distinction between the two. The HMX Jelly switch boasts a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the WS POM+ measures at 3.6 mm. This means that the Jelly switch offers a longer travel distance, which may provide a more substantial feel for users who appreciate a deeper key press. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the WS POM+ can enhance responsiveness, making it a preferable choice for gamers seeking quicker actuation. Ultimately, if you lean towards a more traditional and hearty feel, the HMX Jelly is the better option, while those desiring a snappier response might opt for the WS POM+.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Jelly has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jelly for $2.99.
The Wuque Studio WS POM+ comes in at $3.90 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
The HMX Jelly linear switch is characterized by a low-pitched, deep thocky sound that makes each keystroke feel satisfying and solid. This auditory feedback is complemented by its excellent factory lubrication, which ensures a smooth sound profile during use. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ also boasts a deep, satisfying "thock" sound signature. The shared emphasis on a deep thock sound in both switches may appeal to users who enjoy a rich auditory experience while typing, although individual preferences can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard frame construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Jelly is noted for its super smooth action, which is enhanced by its lightweight 42g actuation force, making it accessible and enjoyable for a range of typing styles. In comparison, the WS POM+ is described as delivering a buttery-smooth keystroke, which likely contributes to a similarly pleasant typing experience. Both switches prioritize a smooth linear action, suggesting that users may find comparable tactile satisfaction whether they choose the Jelly or the WS POM+.
Overall, both the HMX Jelly and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ provide a delightful combination of sound and feel that caters to enthusiasts of linear switches. Their deep thocky sounds and smooth key presses create an inviting typing experience, allowing users to select between them based on personal preference without sacrificing quality. Both switches promise a refined typing experience, making either a strong contender for those venturing into the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, your preferences and typing style will play a significant role in your decision. If you prefer a lighter touch and enjoy a smooth keystroke paired with a low-pitched, thocky sound, the HMX Jelly is an excellent choice. Its 48g bottom-out force and 42g actuation force make it ideal for rapid typing or gaming, where speed and a soft touch are crucial. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more substantial feel with a medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams, the WS POM+ switch might be more suitable. Known for its buttery-smooth keystroke and deep, satisfying thock sound, this switch provides a more pronounced feedback during typing, appealing to those who enjoy a bit more resistance without sacrificing comfort. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal preference for sound and tactile feedback, ensuring that your mechanical keyboard experience is optimized for your typing needs.
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