HMX Lucky vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the HMX Lucky and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lucky and the Wuque Studio WS Red each offer distinctive benefits tailored to diverse typing preferences. The HMX Lucky, with its lightweight and glittery nylon housing, is designed for a neutral and satisfying typing experience, making it an excellent option for users who appreciate a softer touch and a visually appealing aesthetic. In contrast, the WS Red features a heavy-duty actuation force complemented by a 22mm double-stage spring, providing a bouncy and responsive feel that appeals to those who prefer a more substantial keystroke with a classic sound signature. While both switches are linear and cater to users seeking smooth keypresses, their unique qualities can lead to different typing experiences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your individual needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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 double-staged spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Lucky and the Wuque Studio WS Red both utilize nylon as their primary housing material, which significantly contributes to their sound profile and overall typing experience. Both models feature a nylon top and bottom housing, which means they will provide similar characteristics in terms of sound and feel. Given that nylon is a softer plastic, it absorbs more sound compared to harder materials, leading to a deeper and fuller auditory feedback when typing. This is particularly beneficial for users seeking a more muted and rounded sound, as both switches will deliver this experience uniformly due to their identical housing materials.
When considering the impact of the housing structure on the user experience, the similarities between the HMX Lucky and the WS Red become even more pronounced. As both switches are constructed with nylon, they will exhibit comparable dampening qualities that affect the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback. With nylon being a classic choice for switch housings, users can expect a consistent typing experience from both models, characterized by a soft keypress and reduced acoustic sharpness upon actuation and release. This ensures that whether you are using one switch over the other, you will feel the benefits of nylon-infused sound absorption and tactile softness across the board.
Additionally, the use of nylon in both the top and bottom housings means that the typing experience will not only be uniform in sound but will also provide a consistent feel. The integration of nylon material throughout each switch eliminates potential variances that might arise from using different materials in the top and bottom housings. As a result, both the HMX Lucky and the WS Red are designed to create a harmonious typing experience where the qualities of the housing materials seamlessly blend. This uniformity ultimately grants typists a reliable and satisfying performance, regardless of their choice between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lucky linear switch to the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The HMX Lucky features a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming, as it minimizes finger fatigue. In contrast, the WS Red switch has an unspecified actuation force, but it does have a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a more substantial push feel that some users might prefer for a more tactile typing experience. This means that while the Lucky is the lighter option, the WS Red leans toward a medium-heavy category, catering to a preference for sturdier feedback. Overall, the significant difference in bottom out forces suggests that users looking for a lighter switch should opt for the HMX Lucky, while those who appreciate a stronger push should consider the WS Red.
Travel distance
The HMX Lucky linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.8 mm, meaning that the distance these switches travel from the top to the bottom is identical. As a result, users can expect a similar feel and responsiveness when pressing down on keys equipped with either of these switches. Since both switches have the same travel distance, they will provide comparable performance in terms of key actuation, making them suitable options for those who prefer a consistent typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Lucky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lucky 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 Lucky linear switch features a subtle and pleasant audio profile accentuated by its softer nylon housings, which may produce a gentle, muted thock that appeals to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Conversely, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch is known for its classic material blend, resulting in a fuller sound signature that maintains a certain resonance, providing a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. The heavier actuation force of the WS Red likely contributes to a more pronounced sound during typing, adding to its overall character.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Lucky switch offers a neutral typing experience marked by lightweight responsiveness that many users find deeply satisfying. This quality makes it ideal for extended typing sessions, as the softness of the nylon housing contributes to a fluid keystroke. On the other hand, the WS Red switch is characterized by its bouncy and responsive nature due to the incorporation of a 22mm double-stage spring, which introduces a heavier actuation force. This translates to a more substantial and deliberate typing feel, appealing to users who appreciate a bit of weight in their keystrokes for added tactile feedback.
In conclusion, while both the HMX Lucky and Wuque Studio WS Red linear switches provide distinct typing experiences, they cater to different preferences. The Lucky's soft, neutral feel and gentle sound profile may suit those seeking a more subdued environment, while the WS Red offers a bouncier and weightier typing experience with a more pronounced sound. Users looking for a balance between auditory feedback and feel might find satisfaction in either switch, but their choice will largely depend on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, consider your personal typing preferences and the intended use of your keyboard. The HMX Lucky, with its light bottom-out force of 43 grams, is ideal if you favor a softer keystroke with a neutral typing experience. Its glittery nylon housing offers a unique aesthetic, making it a great choice for casual typing or light gaming where speed and comfort are priorities. On the other hand, the WS Red, featuring a heavier bottom-out force of 67 grams and a bouncy double-stage spring, is more suited for typists who prefer a more substantial and tactile feel to their keystrokes. This makes it an excellent option for extensive typing sessions or responsive gaming, where precision and a bit of resistance can enhance performance. Ultimately, your decision hinges on whether you value a lightweight, comfortable feel or a more grounded and responsive typing experience—so assess your needs and pick the switch that aligns best with your style.
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