HMX KD200 vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the HMX KD200 and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between options that offer distinct features. The HMX KD200, renowned as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, delivers a lively typing experience characterized by its pronounced auditory feedback, appealing to those who enjoy an exuberant soundscape while typing. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red, distinguished by its 22mm double-stage spring, provides a bouncy and responsive feel that enhances user interaction, coupled with a heavier actuation force that lends a satisfying weight to each keystroke. While both switches fall under the linear category, they cater to different preferences — the KD200 for sound and playfulness, and the WS Red for a more substantial typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
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 single-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the HMX KD200 and the Wuque Studio WS Red, one notable similarity is their use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This choice of housing material significantly contributes to the typing experience provided by each switch. Nylon is renowned for its softer plastic properties, which allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. Consequently, this results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, which is desirable for many users seeking a more subdued auditory experience. Since both the KD200 and WS Red utilize nylon in the same manner, it can be expected that the sound produced by typing on either switch will be comparably rich, enhancing the sensory experience without producing excessive noise.
Despite the identical choice of nylon for housing, the overall typing experience may still vary slightly based on other design factors within each switch. While both the KD200 and WS Red exhibit similar acoustics due to their nylon housings, characteristics such as actuation force, travel distance, and tactile feedback can differentiate them beyond the material alone. While the softness of the nylon contributes to a dulled and rounded sound, the physical properties surrounding each switch—like the mechanisms and other components—will also play a critical role in determining how each feels to the user. Therefore, although sound quality will likely be similar, other tactile aspects may still create distinct preferences for users of either switch.
In terms of performance, each nylon housing type is capable of delivering a satisfying typing sound due to its sound-absorbing characteristics, ensuring users achieve similar auditory outcomes. When engaging with the switches, the bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound produced when releasing a key. With both the HMX KD200 and Wuque Studio WS Red employing nylon throughout both the top and bottom housings, typists can anticipate a consistently pleasant typing experience characterized by that desired deep thump. Ultimately, whether one prefers the KD200 or WS Red may come down to individual preferences for tactile feedback and switch activation rather than the inherent quality of sound produced by the nylon housing.
Weight
The HMX KD200 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch present a notable contrast in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The KD200 features a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an excellent option for users who prefer less resistance during typing or gaming—ideal for longer use without fatigue. In stark contrast, the WS Red switch has an unspecified actuation force, but its bottom out force of 67 grams indicates a medium-heavy feel, which provides a more substantial feedback that some users prefer for a more tactile typing experience. As a result, the KD200 can be considered the lighter switch, while the WS Red is the heavier option, particularly at the bottom out stage. For those who seek a softer keystroke, the KD200 would be the superior choice, while the WS Red would appeal to those favoring a firmer feel during use.
Travel distance
The HMX KD200 linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference highlights a clear contrast between the two switches: the KD200 provides a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times and a more immediate actuation. In contrast, the WS Red's longer 3.8 mm travel distance may be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial keystroke and a deeper tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation speed versus the feeling of depth when typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX KD200 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the KD200 for $3.29.
The Wuque Studio WS Red 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 KD200 linear switch is known for being the clackiest option in the HMX Film switch family. This suggests that it produces a more pronounced acoustic profile, making it an excellent choice for users who appreciate audible feedback during their typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch maintains a familiar sound signature thanks to its classic material blend, which likely results in a more subdued but still pleasant auditory output. Both switches, however, will ultimately have their acoustics influenced by factors like the keyboard construction and keycap choice, meaning that users can achieve similar pleasant sounds with care in selection.
When it comes to feel, the KD200 is characterized by its smooth actuation, ideal for those who prefer a linear experience without tactile bumps. Meanwhile, the WS Red features a 22mm double-stage spring, which adds a bouncy and responsive typing experience, making it feel more dynamic. The heavier actuation force of the WS Red provides a sense of weight and substance with each keystroke, contributing to a more tactile sensation compared to the KD200. While both switches offer a linear feel, the distinguishing aspects of weight and responsiveness in the WS Red may cater to hands-on users seeking a more engaging typing experience.
In conclusion, while both the HMX KD200 and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switches cater to different preferences, they can provide satisfying results in their respective domains. The KD200 delivers a clackier sound profile, whereas the WS Red has a more muted yet familiar acoustic quality. In terms of feel, the KD200 offers a smoother experience, while the WS Red presents a bouncier and weightier typing sensation. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback, either switch can enhance your mechanical keyboard experience uniquely.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX KD200 and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switches largely depends on your typing preferences and ergonomic needs. If you prefer a lighter switch with a clacky sound profile and a more playful feel, the KD200 would be an excellent choice, especially if you enjoy a lively auditory feedback while typing. This switch is particularly suitable for those who engage in rapid typing or gaming sessions where speed and agility matter, thanks to its 50-gram actuation force. On the other hand, if you desire a switch that offers a more substantial keystroke with medium-heavy resistance for added feedback, the WS Red would serve you better. Its 67-gram bottom-out force paired with a bouncy spring design provides a satisfying typing experience for those who appreciate a solid, weighty keystroke, which can enhance accuracy and confidence in both typing and gaming contexts. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you prioritize a lighter, more vibrant feedback from the KD200 or a more solid and weighted experience from the WS Red in your keyboard setup.
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