HMX Lotus (Heavy) vs. Wuque Studio WS Jade
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between options that cater to different sensory and tactile preferences. The HMX Lotus (Heavy) stands out with its medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5g, offering a super bouncy feel that turns every keystroke into a delightful experience. Its bright, resonant sound adds a lively auditory element, appealing to those who enjoy an engaging typing environment. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Jade features a unique metallic insert within its stem base, providing a distinctively clacky and resonant sound profile. Coupled with a light diffuser that enhances RGB lighting effects, the WS Jade promises a typing experience that is both creamy and smooth, with a rock-solid bottom-out that appeals to typists seeking comfort and visual flair. Both switches bring their own unique qualities to the table, catering to different preferences for weight, sound, and tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
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 single-staged spring
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
When examining the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Wuque Studio WS Jade, a key differentiator is the choice of housing materials for both the top and bottom components of each switch. The Lotus (Heavy) utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, which is noted for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's relatively soft nature, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. As a result, when typing on the Lotus (Heavy), users can expect a rounder and more muted auditory experience, benefiting from the consistent characteristics of nylon throughout the switch.
In contrast, the WS Jade features POM (Polyoxymethylene) for both its top and bottom housings, which also yields a uniquely pleasing sound profile. POM has been recognized for producing a deep but somewhat muted auditory experience as well. This similarity in sound profile—both switches eliciting a deeper feel—indicates that the user experience in terms of tone and sound absorption remains comparable between the two products, despite the underlying material differences. The construction of POM may allow for slight variations in the overall sound satisfaction, but the core experience remains rooted in that desirable depth and muted quality.
Ultimately, the different materials contribute unique nuances to each switch while maintaining a broadly similar acoustic experience. The softer nylon of the Lotus (Heavy) promotes a fuller resonance, while the robust POM of the WS Jade offers an intriguing alternative with its own appealing sound characteristics. With the top and bottom housings each impacting different aspects of the sound profile during use, both switches provide users with options tailored to their preferences without sacrificing the deep and rounded auditory results that users seek.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Lotus (Heavy) requires a greater actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, making it the heavier option, which may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the WS Jade has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, catering to those who prefer a more effortless typing feel, especially during extended use. Although both switches fall into the medium category, the Lotus (Heavy) offers a firmer push, while the WS Jade allows for easier key presses. Overall, if you're looking for a lighter switch, the WS Jade is the way to go, whereas the Lotus (Heavy) provides a heftier option for those who appreciate a stronger tactile feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, the Lotus (Heavy) has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the WS Jade measures slightly longer at 3.6 mm. This makes the Lotus (Heavy) the shorter of the two switches, which may appeal to gamers seeking a more responsive typing experience, as shorter distances generally facilitate quicker key presses. Conversely, the WS Jade's longer travel distance can provide a more pronounced tactile feel for those who prefer deeper keystrokes and a more deliberate typing experience. Therefore, if you value rapid response and a light touch, the Lotus (Heavy) would be the preferable choice, whereas if you appreciate a more substantial depth, the WS Jade would better suit your preferences.
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 Jade comes in at $4.30 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch produces a bright and resonant tone. This sound profile can provide a delightful auditory cue for each keystroke, enhancing the typing experience with its lively character. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Jade switch presents a more complex auditory profile. Described as clacky, marbly, and resonant, the WS Jade produces a sharp and snappy sound that feels crisp and percussive. The integration of a metallic insert helps elevate the sound quality, giving it an immersive and high-pitched auditory experience. Both switches can offer a vibrant sound, but the WS Jade's multifaceted profile may appeal to those seeking a more dynamic acoustic feedback.
In terms of feel, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) is characterized by a medium-heavy weight of 62.5g that offers a super bouncy sensation, likely making each keystroke feel engaging and satisfying. The WS Jade, however, takes a unique approach with a silky and creamy tactile experience. This smoothness, potentially enhanced by lubricant or specific materials, allows fingers to glide effortlessly over the keys, resulting in a smooth and buttery sensation. The distinction in feel means that, while both can provide enjoyable typing experiences, the Lotus (Heavy) may emphasize bounce and weightiness, while the WS Jade focuses on smoothness and ease of motion.
Summarizing the qualities of both switches, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) and the Wuque Studio WS Jade offer distinct but appealing traits to typists. The Lotus excels in delivering a bright resonant sound and a bouncy feel, creating a lively and engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Jade captivates with its unique clacky, marbly, and resonant sounds, combined with a creamy and silky feel that promotes smooth keystrokes. Depending on personal preferences, either switch can provide an enjoyable and satisfying typing experience, allowing users to choose based on their desired auditory and tactile sensations.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a more pronounced tactile experience with a bit of bounce, the Lotus (Heavy) with its medium-heavy weight of 62.5 grams is an excellent option. Its brighter and more resonant sound can make for an engaging auditory experience, making it ideal for those who enjoy the feedback of each keystroke. On the other hand, if you favor a silky, creamy feel with a smooth typing experience, the WS Jade is likely to be more your speed. The Jade's unique metallic insert contributes to a bright, clacky sound profile, and its light diffuser enhances your RGB setup, making it a great choice for gamers and those who appreciate aesthetic flair in their typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you're after the delightful bounce and auditory feedback of the Lotus (Heavy) or the smooth and visually striking traits of the WS Jade.
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