HMX Lotus (Heavy) vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, both the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences. The HMX Lotus (Heavy) stands out with its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g and a bright, resonant sound, delivering a super bouncy feel that ensures every keystroke is a delight. This linear switch is ideal for those who favor smooth and uninterrupted key presses, making it an excellent choice for fast-paced gaming or prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch provides a more immersive typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump at 70g, along with an engaging "thocky" sound produced by its nylon housing. This tactile switch appeals to users who appreciate a more deliberate keystroke, offering satisfying feedback that enhances the act of typing. Ultimately, while both switches present compelling arguments for your keyboard needs, a deeper exploration of their characteristics will help you decide which switch aligns best with your personal typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
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-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, distinguishing them as high-quality switch options. The use of nylon in both models guarantees a rich and robust sound profile, characterized by a deeper and fuller auditory experience. This commonality in materials results in similarly muted acoustics, as nylon's softer composition effectively dampens sound vibrations, promoting a rounder sound during typing. Consequently, users of either switch can expect to enjoy a smooth and pleasant typing experience, devoid of harsh noises, which is particularly appealing for those who prioritize acoustic performance in their mechanical keyboards.
While both switches feature identical housing materials, the interplay between the top and bottom housings influences their overall character. The bottom housing's material significantly affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a crucial role during the release phase of the keypress. With both the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the WS Heavy Tactile employing nylon for these components, users can anticipate slight variations in how each switch articulates these phases, even though the foundational materials are the same. Such differences can lead to unique tactile feedback and sound characteristics during typing, allowing users to choose based on their preferences for the nuances exclusive to each model.
Moreover, the shared nylon composition may not necessarily equate to a uniform experience across both switches, especially considering the design philosophy and engineering of each switch. Even with the same material, variations in weight, spring tension, and stem design can produce distinct typing experiences despite identical housing materials. Thus, while both the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the WS Heavy Tactile promise muted acoustics and a deep sound profile thanks to their nylon housings, they may offer differing sensations and sound interpretations, allowing users to select switched based on their preferred tactile feedback and overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, there are notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different typing preferences. The Lotus (Heavy) features an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, positioning it as a medium switch suitable for users who enjoy a stronger push feel without being excessively heavy. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes, while its bottom out force is higher at 70 grams. This characteristic may appeal to those who prefer a more tactile feedback combined with a stronger end feel when bottoming out. Overall, the Lotus switch is heavier than the WS Heavy Tactile in terms of actuation force, which can result in different typing experiences: the Lotus may be more suitable for users who favor a firmer touch, while the WS switch may be ideal for longer typing sessions due to its lighter actuation.
Travel distance
The HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. This means that the Lotus (Heavy) provides a deeper press, which can be preferred by users who appreciate a more pronounced feedback and tactile sensation as they type. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile's shorter distance may offer a quicker response time, making it an appealing choice for gamers looking for speed and efficiency in their keystrokes. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness, the WS Heavy Tactile would be the better option, while those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke experience might lean towards the Lotus (Heavy) for its longer travel distance. Overall, these differences highlight the diverse preferences in key feel and performance between the two switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Lotus (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus (Heavy) for $2.99.
The Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile 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
The sound profile of the Lotus (Heavy) switch is characterized by a bright and resonant quality, providing an engaging auditory feedback that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound. This auditory signature can be described as crisp and bright, with a sharpness that makes each keystroke feel lively. While both switches provide a resonant experience, the Lotus (Heavy) might have a more straightforward brightness, whereas the WS Heavy Tactile leans into a more pronounced, engaging thocky sound that many typists find delightful. Overall, both switches will deliver an engaging sound, but the subtle differences could cater to personal preferences regarding auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Lotus (Heavy) switch is renowned for its super bouncy action, which combines a medium-heavy weight of 62.5g with a lively responsiveness that makes typing a joyful experience. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile switch emphasizes a pronounced tactile bump that requires 70g of actuation force, providing not only a substantial tactile feedback but also an invigorating and snappy feel with each keystroke. While the Lotus (Heavy) is bouncier and offers a spring-like sensation that makes typing feel particularly lively, the WS Heavy Tactile provides a firm tactile response that's accentuated and distinct. Both switches aim to deliver an engaging typing experience; however, one's choice between them may revolve around whether they prefer a bouncier feel or a more pronounced tactile feedback.
In conclusion, both the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch present unique auditory and tactile qualities that can cater to different typing preferences. The Lotus (Heavy) brings a bright, resonant sound coupled with a bouncy feel that enhances the joy of every keystroke, while the WS Heavy Tactile offers a deep, tactile engagement paired with a captivating thocky sound. Ultimately, if you are looking for a lively yet straightforward typing experience, the Lotus (Heavy) may be the switch for you. If you prefer a firmer tactile feedback with an immersive auditory experience, the WS Heavy Tactile will likely be more suitable. Choosing between them comes down to personal preference for sound and feel, ensuring that whichever switch you select, you will achieve an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences in typing style and sound. If you enjoy a bouncy, lively feel with every keystroke and prefer a lighter touch that allows for rapid typing without much resistance, the Lotus (Heavy) is an excellent choice. Its resonant sound profile and medium weight (62.5g) can make for a delightful and engaging typing experience, particularly suited for gaming or typing at a quick pace where feedback can enhance your performance. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more pronounced tactile response and a heavier resistance for a more deliberate and immersive typing experience, especially in situations where you want to feel each keystroke distinctly, the WS Heavy Tactile is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 70 grams, it provides a robust tactile bump accompanied by a satisfying "thocky" sound, ideal for those who prefer thoughtfully crafted messages or coding where accuracy is critical. Ultimately, both switches bring unique characteristics; your decision should reflect the typing experience you wish to create, whether it leans towards the snappy and buoyant or the tactile and robust.