HMX Lotus vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference and typing feel. The HMX Lotus, a linear switch, is celebrated for its medium weight of 50g at bottom out, delivering a delightful bounce with each keystroke accompanied by a bright, resonant sound that many users find invigorating. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience that feels lively and responsive. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ offers a unique all-POM construction that elevates the typing experience with its deep, satisfying "thock" sound and buttery-smooth keystrokes. This switch caters to users looking for a more subdued yet richly textured auditory feedback along with silky-smooth actuation. Both options provide distinct advantages: the Lotus for its energetic and resonant keystrokes, and the WS POM+ for its plush, acoustically pleasing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
POM
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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Lotus and the Wuque Studio WS POM+, we notice that both the Lotus and the WS POM+ feature different materials for their top and bottom housings. The HMX Lotus utilizes a nylon structure for both its top and bottom housings, which is recognized for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This particular quality arises from nylon's relatively softer plastic nature, allowing it to absorb more sound and resulting in a sound that is typically described as duller and rounder. This characteristic makes the Lotus suitable for users who prefer a sound that feels warm and consistent across various typing scenarios.
In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ makes use of POM (Polyoxymethylene) for both its top and bottom housings. POM is known for providing a unique and pleasing sound profile, also on the deeper side but with a distinctly muted quality. Despite being a harder plastic than nylon, the properties of POM create a compelling acoustic experience that some users may find equally appealing. While both keyboards ultimately aim for a deep sound, the nuanced differences in sound profiles between the two materials could lead to varied user experiences during typing sessions.
It is essential to note that while the top and bottom housings differ in both models, the qualities attributed to each material will influence how a switch feels and sounds when pressed. The key takeaway here is that, although the Lotus uses nylon and the WS POM+ employs POM, both switches can deliver satisfying acoustic outcomes, each reflecting the inherent properties of their respective materials. Users of either switch will likely notice that the nylon in the Lotus emphasizes a warm and fuller sound while the POM in the WS POM+ offers a more distinct yet muted profile. In practical terms, both keyboards can achieve a depth in sound that enhances the typing experience, albeit through different paths.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, we find that both switches feature the same actuation force of 45 grams, providing a consistent feel when triggering keystrokes. However, they diverge when it comes to the bottom out force, with the Lotus at 50 grams and the WS POM+ slightly heavier at 55 grams. This means that while both switches require the same force to actuate, the WS POM+ will provide a more substantial resistance when fully depressed, making it feel a bit heavier overall. Consequently, the Lotus is the lighter option, which may appeal to users who prioritize extended typing sessions or gaming marathons without fatigue. On the other hand, the WS POM+ caters to those who prefer a more robust typing experience due to its higher bottom out force.
Travel distance
The HMX Lotus linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Lotus switch offers a marginally shorter travel distance compared to the WS POM+, which could make it appealing for users who prioritize quick response times, especially in gaming scenarios. On the other hand, the WS POM+, with its longer travel distance, might be more suitable for users who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback and depth when pressing a key. While both switches fall within the realm of shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, if one prefers a balance between depth and speed, they might find both options meet their needs, albeit with a slight preference towards the Lotus for faster actuation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Lotus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus for $2.99.
The Wuque Studio WS POM+ comes in at $3.90 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 Lotus linear switch is characterized by its bright and resonant quality, which creates an engaging auditory experience that brings each keystroke to life. This lively sound profile can add to the enjoyment of typing, especially for users who appreciate a more pronounced acoustic feedback. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ offers a deep, satisfying "thock" that contributes to a solid auditory presence when typing. While the WS POM+'s sound signature tends towards a smoother and more muted tone compared to the Lotus, it creates a comforting and pleasing backdrop for every keypress, enriching the overall experience. It's important to note that the final sound of these switches may vary depending on the keyboard build and choice of keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Lotus switch is known for its medium weight of 50g bottom out, providing a super bouncy sensation that many typists find delightful. This characteristic makes the Lotus highly responsive, allowing for a fluid typing experience that can help enhance speed and accuracy. On the other hand, the WS POM+ aims for an unparalleled typing feel with a buttery-smooth keystroke. Although the POM+ may not specifically mention its actuation force, the indication of a smooth transition suggests a refined tactile experience that can be both pleasurable and comfortable during extended typing sessions.
Overall, both the HMX Lotus and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switches offer distinctive sensory qualities that cater to different preferences. The Lotus provides a brighter, more resonant sound along with a bouncy feel, making it great for those who enjoy a lively and responsive typing experience. Meanwhile, the WS POM+ emphasizes a deeper sound and smoothly buttery keystrokes, appealing to those who prefer a more solid yet fluid tactile sensation. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on which combination of sound and feel resonates more with your personal typing style.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile. If you prefer a lighter switch with a bit of bounce and a bright, resonant sound, the HMX Lotus is an excellent choice. Its 50g bottom-out force makes it ideal for fast-paced typing, offering a delightful tactile experience that can make your keystrokes feel more energetic and responsive. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a switch that provides a medium-light resistance with a deeper, more satisfying "thock" sound, the WS POM+ is the way to go. With its 55g bottom-out force, it offers a smoother, more substantial feel that is perfect for those who appreciate a more solidly built keystroke. So, whether your priority is a lively bounce or a rich sound, both switches have distinct advantages that can cater to your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you value a light, responsive touch or a heavier, more authoritative keystroke.
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