HMX Lotus vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Lotus and the Wuque Studio WS Red present two compelling options, each with unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The HMX Lotus features a medium actuation force of 50g, which offers a delightful bouncy feel in each keystroke and produces a bright, resonant sound that enhances the typing experience. This makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a lively sound profile and a responsive touch. In contrast, the WS Red switches utilize a 22mm double-stage spring that delivers a heavier actuation, resulting in a more substantial typing experience. While it also offers a bouncy feel, the added weight provides a sense of control and stability that may appeal to users who prefer a firmer response. Both switches are classified as linear, ensuring a smooth keystroke without the tactile bump or click found in other switch types. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right 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
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 double-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Lotus and the Wuque Studio WS Red both share identical housing materials for both the top and bottom housings, utilizing nylon throughout. This choice of material is significant, as nylon is known for its acoustic properties that enhance the overall sound profile of the switches. The deeper and fuller sound elicited from both the Lotus and WS Red is a result of the nylon's softness, which allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics. Consequently, users can expect a similar auditory experience when typing on either switch, characterized by a duller and rounder sound profile that many enthusiasts appreciate.
While both the Lotus and WS Red feature the same nylon material, the impact of this choice manifests differently depending on which part of the switch is engaged. The nylon bottom housing particularly influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down, leading to a satisfying tactile experience. Meanwhile, the top housing's properties, also made of nylon, affect the sound and sensation during key release. This division of effects between the top and bottom housings means that even though both switches are made from the same material, the overall typing experience subtly varies based on the interaction between these parts.
Ultimately, the shared use of nylon in both the HMX Lotus and the Wuque Studio WS Red allows for a cohesive sound profile that users can appreciate. The combination of nylon's inherent acoustic dampening characteristics ensures that both switches deliver a pleasing auditory experience. Therefore, whether one opts for the Lotus or the WS Red, they can expect similar results in terms of sound and tactile feedback, thanks to the consistent use of nylon as a housing material across these two switches.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Lotus switch boasts a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a suitable choice for users who prefer a lighter typing experience, ideal for long hours of work or gaming. In contrast, the WS Red switch features an undefined actuation force and a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, which will likely appeal to those who favor a more substantial push feel while typing. As a result, users looking for a lighter feel should gravitate towards the Lotus, while those who desire a firmer key press may find the WS Red more satisfying, despite the unknown actuation force. Overall, the HMX Lotus presents itself as the lighter option, while the WS Red provides a medium-heavy experience with its bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it becomes evident that the two switches cater to different preferences. The HMX Lotus features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the WS Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference signifies that the Lotus switch provides a shorter and potentially more responsive experience, which is often favored by gamers seeking quicker actuation times. On the other hand, the WS Red's 3.8 mm travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial depth in their keystrokes, offering a more satisfying feel during typing or gaming. Thus, if you lean towards responsiveness, the Lotus is the better choice, while those who enjoy a deeper travel experience might prefer the WS Red.
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 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 Lotus linear switch produces a bright and resonant tone that can be quite noticeable during use. This auditory quality adds an engaging layer to the typing experience, as the clear sound can enhance the feedback received from each keystroke. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch tends to maintain a more muted sound signature thanks to its classic material blend. While the exact resonance may differ, both switches tend to deliver a satisfying auditory experience, although the Lotus may come across as more pronounced and lively.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Lotus boasts a medium weight of 50g at bottom out, contributing to a super bouncy sensation that makes each keystroke feel light and responsive. This engaging feedback can lead to a delightful typing experience, allowing for quicker, more fluid typability. In contrast, the WS Red, equipped with a 22mm double-stage spring, offers a heavier actuation force, which translates to a more substantial and solid feel per keystroke. This added weight can create a tactile feedback that some users appreciate, making the typing experience feel more anchored and deliberate, yet also bouncy and responsive.
In conclusion, both the HMX Lotus and Wuque Studio WS Red linear switches are designed to offer enjoyable typing experiences, albeit with different auditory and tactile signatures. The Lotus shines with its bright sound and super bouncy feel, while the WS Red offers a familiar sound and a heavier, more substantial typing experience. Choosing between them ultimately comes down to personal preference concerning sound preference and the desired typing weight, yet both switches cater to those seeking a pleasing response while typing.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter, more playful typing experience coupled with a bright, resonant sound that enhances the tactile joy of each keystroke, the HMX Lotus with its 50g bottom-out force is likely the better option for you. It's designed to provide a super bouncy feeling that makes typing feel effortless, ideal for those who might type quickly or are looking for a switch that allows for rapid inputs without much resistance. On the other hand, if you lean towards a firmer and more substantial typing experience, the WS Red switch with its 67g bottom-out force could be your go-to. It offers a bouncy but responsive feel, paired with a classic sound signature that many typists appreciate. This switch is great for users who prefer a bit more weight to their keystrokes, lending to a more definitive feeling of control, especially in intensive typing scenarios. Ultimately, your preferences in sound, feel, and actuation force should steer you toward the switch that best matches your typing style and comfort.