HMX Jelly vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the HMX Jelly and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Jelly and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow both present compelling options for enthusiasts seeking a linear typing experience, yet they offer distinct characteristics that can cater to different preferences. The HMX Jelly switches are celebrated for their unique low-pitched, deep thocky sound signature, complemented by a super smooth feel thanks to exceptional factory lube and a lightweight 42g actuation force. In contrast, the WS Yellow switches stand out with their innovative design featuring a 22mm double-stage spring, delivering a delightful typing bounce and a familiar sound profile that appeals to many users. Both switches are crafted to ensure effortless keystrokes, making them ideal for prolonged typing sessions. However, the Jelly focuses on auditory satisfaction and smooth operation, while the WS Yellow emphasizes a balanced blend of classic materials with advanced engineering for an invigorating tactile response. Nevertheless, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
T2
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
22mm extended single-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Jelly and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow, it becomes evident that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. Since nylon is a well-regarded classic switch housing material, both keyboards benefit from its characteristic properties. Specifically, the use of nylon in both models contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This shared material choice results in a typing experience that emphasizes a muted and rounded acoustics, which is preferred by many typists and gamers alike. Consequently, users of either switch can expect a similarly satisfying auditory feedback during use.
The presence of nylon in the bottom housing of both the HMX Jelly and WS Yellow further supports their comparative performance in terms of bottom-out sound and feel. Both switches will exhibit a soft and dampened sound due to nylon’s absorption qualities, which makes for a pleasantly cushioned typing experience. This shared characteristic means that, regardless of the exact manufacturing variations, the fundamental typing sensations are aligned. As such, whether a user types on the Jelly or the WS Yellow, they will experience a consistency in the bottoming-out sound and tactile feedback, allowing for an enjoyable experience across both switches.
While there may be differences in other design aspects and the specifics of the switch mechanism (which are not addressed here), the identical use of nylon in both the top and bottom housings for the HMX Jelly and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow suggests that users will achieve a comparable performance in terms of sound and typing feel. This similarity in housing materials indicates that choosing either switch is likely to yield a satisfying experience for those who appreciate the characteristics of nylon switches. Thus, regardless of the subtleties that might differentiate the two, the day-to-day experience will resonate strongly between the two models due to their shared material properties.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX Jelly has a relatively light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. In contrast, the WS Yellow's bottom out force is 53 grams, but its actuation force is unknown. This implies that while the Jelly switch is easier to press initially, the WS Yellow requires a bit more force when fully bottoming out. Therefore, the Jelly is the lighter switch, making it ideal for users seeking comfort during extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the WS Yellow, with its heavier bottom out force, may cater better to those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback and a sturdier typing experience. Overall, the Jelly is optimal for speed and comfort, while the WS Yellow leans towards a more robust feel.
Travel distance
Both the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch feature the same travel distance of 3.8 mm, making them equivalent in this aspect. As a result, users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on the keys of devices equipped with either switch. This uniformity in travel distance indicates that both switches will deliver comparable performance in terms of feel and responsiveness, allowing for consistent typing and gaming experiences across both options.
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 Yellow comes in at $3.50 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 Jelly switch delivers a low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature that many users find satisfying and rich. This auditory characteristic is often appealing to those who enjoy the subtle audio feedback during typing. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switch features a sound signature that enthusiasts have come to adore, but specific details about its tonal quality are not provided. As sound can be influenced by other factors, such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used, both switches will create unique auditory experiences depending on these variables. Therefore, while the Jelly's sound is notably defined, some aspects of the WS Yellow's audio profile remain ambiguous.
Focusing on the feel of the switches, the Jelly switch is renowned for its super smooth keystrokes, largely attributed to excellent factory lubrication—but specific descriptions of its tactile feedback are not explicitly mentioned. In contrast, the WS Yellow switch is characterized by its creamy texture, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience, with a mild approachability that caters to a wider range of users. This is complemented by its polished finish, which further enhances the overall fluidity of each keystroke. While both switches aim to provide an easy typing experience, the Jelly may offer a more traditional smoothness, while the WS Yellow leans towards a luxurious, silky feel that many find enjoyable.
In summary, while the HMX Jelly and Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switches both promise a lightweight typing experience conducive to smooth keystrokes, they diverge in their auditory and tactile characteristics. The Jelly switch is noted for its deep sound and seamless feel, while the WS Yellow is designed to deliver a creamy, polished typing sensation. This showcases a blend of engineering and comfort that appeals to enthusiasts. Choosing between them may ultimately come down to personal sound preference and desired typing feel; however, both options suggest that users will find satisfaction in the experience they provide.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, the key factors to consider revolve around your personal preferences for actuation force, sound signature, and overall typing experience. If you prefer a lighter switch with a more pronounced thocky sound signature and an incredibly smooth feel due to excellent factory lubricating, the HMX Jelly, with its 48g bottom-out force and 42g actuation force, might be the ideal choice for you. This switch is well-suited for those who enjoy a more tactile and cushioned feedback, making it an excellent fit for both typing and gaming scenarios. On the other hand, if you're looking for a medium-light switch with a classic appeal, the WS Yellow is a fantastic option. With a slightly higher bottom-out force of 53g and a delightful bouncy feel provided by its double-stage spring, it offers a creamy typing experience that many enthusiasts find satisfying. The familiar sound profile and polished finish of the WS Yellow will likely resonate with users who appreciate a smooth and refined keystroke. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches should align with your desired typing experience and comfort, so consider trying both to discover which one feels best for you.
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