HMX Jelly vs. Wuque Studio WS Red

Overview

When choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Jelly and the Wuque Studio WS Red stand out as distinct yet compelling options for typists and gamers alike. The Jelly switches are renowned for their low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature, which, combined with their lightweight 42g actuation force and excellent factory lubrication, delivers an incredibly smooth typing experience that many users find appealing for long sessions of typing or gaming. On the other hand, the WS Red switches feature a 22mm double-stage spring that provides a bouncy and responsive feel, complemented by a heavier actuation force, which adds a satisfying weight to each keystroke and enhances tactile feedback. While the Jelly switches are favored for their lightweight and acoustically pleasing performance, the WS Red’s added weight and responsiveness are great for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.

By the numbers

HMX Jelly Linear

Wuque Studio WS Red Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Jelly and the Wuque Studio WS Red share a significant similarity in their housing materials, with both utilizing nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This commonality in material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound due to its relatively softer nature compared to harder plastics. This absorption characteristic leads to a rounder and less sharp auditory experience, creating a more pleasant typing environment. Users of either switch can expect similar acoustic results, making both switches appealing options for those seeking a muted and textured sound when typing.

While the nylon material across both setups provides a consistent acoustic experience, the specific contributions of the top and bottom housings differ in terms of tactile feedback and sound production. With both the HMX Jelly and WS Red being made of nylon throughout, the bottom housing will primarily influence the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will play a critical role in the release sound. However, since both switches feature the same materials, this split in characteristics will yield almost indistinguishable results, reinforcing the consistent performance and feel that both switches offer to users.

In summary, the key comparisons highlight the uniformity between the HMX Jelly and the Wuque Studio WS Red in terms of material choice and its effects on sound and feel. With both switches crafted from nylon in their top and bottom housings, users can anticipate a similar auditory experience and tactile sensation. While the finer details of how each switch responds under different pressures may vary slightly based on design variations, the overall output in terms of sound and tactile feedback will be strikingly similar, ultimately providing an appealing choice for enthusiasts of quieter, more subdued typing experiences.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX Jelly switch features a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for extended typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the WS Red switch has a significantly higher bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a more substantial typing experience, though its actuation force remains unspecified. As such, the WS Red can be characterized as medium-heavy, requiring more effort for engagement. This makes the Jelly a better choice for those who prioritize a light feel, while the WS Red caters to users who enjoy a stronger push feel when typing. Consequently, users looking for a lighter switch should opt for the Jelly, while those who prefer a heavier switch would be better served by the WS Red.

Travel distance

The HMX Jelly linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which means that when pressing down on either switch, users will experience the same distance from the top to the bottom. This identical travel distance results in similar tactile feedback and responsiveness when typing or gaming, allowing for a consistent experience regardless of which switch is being used. Since both switches have the same travel distance, they can be expected to perform similarly in terms of key press depth, making them suitable for those who prefer a standardized feel in their keyboard experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Jelly linear switch is characterized by its low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature, which creates a rich auditory experience when typing. This makes it an appealing choice for those who appreciate a more resonant sound profile. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch maintains a more familiar sound signature due to its classic material blend. While it may not match the Jelly's deep thock, it offers a satisfying auditory feedback that many users find agreeable. It's important to note that sound can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard plate material and the type of keycaps used, meaning both switches could perform differently in various setups.

When comparing the feel of these switches, the Jelly excels with its incredibly smooth action, attributed to its excellent factory lubrication and the lightweight 42g actuation force. This makes it an ideal choice for users who prefer a swift and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the WS Red switch features a heavier actuation force paired with a 22mm double-stage spring, providing a bouncy and responsive feel that adds some weight to each keystroke. This weightiness can deliver a more substantial and tactile typing experience, catering to those who might prefer a bit more resistance in their keypresses.

Overall, both the HMX Jelly and WS Red linear switches offer unique characteristics that appeal to different typing preferences. The Jelly provides a deep, resonant sound and a glide-like smoothness with its lightweight design, while the WS Red focuses on a more traditional sound and a gratifying bouncy feel with a heavier actuation force. Users may gravitate towards one over the other based on personal preference for sound and feel, but both switches can deliver satisfying typing experiences with the right keyboard setup.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, your personal preferences and typing needs will play a pivotal role in guiding your choice. If you favor a smoother, more effortless typing experience that allows for quick keystrokes without substantial force, the Jelly switch, with its lighter 48-gram bottom-out force and low 42-gram actuation force, would be your best bet. Its unique low-pitched, thocky sound signature adds a satisfying auditory element that can enhance your typing enjoyment, making it ideal for both casual typing and gaming. Conversely, if you prefer a more grounded, tactile response with a noticeable weight on each keystroke, the WS Red switch would suit you better, especially with its medium-heavy 67-gram bottom-out force and the bouncy feel provided by its double-stage spring. This switch delivers not only a familiar sound signature but also a more substantial typing experience that many users find satisfying for both gaming and typing tasks. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you value the quick, lightweight feel of the Jelly or the pronounced, responsive touch of the WS Red.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Jelly Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Wuque Studio WS Red Linear

$3.50 per 10

Learn more