HMX Lucky vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the HMX Lucky and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch for your typing style and environment, the choice between the HMX Lucky and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile presents a fascinating contrast. The HMX Lucky is renowned for its lightweight, softer nylon housing that contributes to a smooth and silky typing experience, making it an excellent option for those who prefer a linear switch that feels neutral yet deeply satisfying. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile is designed with a focus on creating a quiet yet responsive typing experience, perfect for office settings where noise can be a concern. With its medium tactility and innovative design—eschewing traditional silicone dampeners for precision-engineered stem railings—the WS Silent Tactile sets a new benchmark for tactile switches, offering both tranquility and feedback as you type. Each switch offers unique benefits tailored to different user preferences, but, however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Lucky and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches reveal striking similarities, particularly concerning their top and bottom housings made of nylon. Both switches benefit from nylon's classic characteristics, which contribute to the overall sound profile and tactile experience. The use of nylon results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing, a quality that stands out due to nylon's softer nature. This material choice allows for significant sound absorption, producing a quieter and rounder acoustic profile compared to the sharper sounds emitted from harder plastics. As a result, users of both switches will enjoy a comparable auditory experience, with a pleasingly muted response that is ideal for a serene typing environment.
Despite their similar top and bottom housing materials, the interplay of nylon housing in both switches hints at nuanced differences that impact the typing experience. The bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel, which means that while both the HMX Lucky and WS Silent Tactile provide a similar deep sound when activating the switch, the sensation of bottoming out may vary slightly due to the internal structures of each switch. The responsiveness users can feel upon actuation may be influenced by design attributes besides just the material. These subtle design differences could lead to unique tactile feedback with each keystroke, enriching the typing experience even further.
Moreover, while both switches utilize nylon for both their top and bottom housings, the collaborative effects of these materials ensure a cohesive performance. Users can expect similar results regarding sound profile and feel, as both switches leverage the acoustic dampening qualities of nylon to produce a smooth and somewhat muted typing experience. However, if there were differences in the internal switch mechanisms or other structural components, those aspects would also significantly contribute to the overall typing sensation and sound quality. Thus, while the shared nylon material provides a strong foundation for sound and tactility, other design elements could lead to different perceptions during use, making each switch distinct despite their common housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lucky linear switch with the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Lucky switch features a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile switch does not have a specified actuation force, but it has a significantly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This implies a more substantial typing experience, appealing to users who favor a firmer push feel. While the Lucky's bottom out force is lighter at 43 grams, the WS Silent Tactile's bottom out force provides a heavier tactile feedback, catering to different preferences in typing feel. Ultimately, the Lucky switch would be more suitable for users seeking a lighter touch, while the WS Silent Tactile is better for those who prefer a heavier switch experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch, we find that the Lucky has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the WS Silent Tactile measures at 3.5 mm. This means the Lucky switch offers a longer travel distance, which may provide a more pronounced tactile feedback and overall deeper feel for users who appreciate that extra depth in a keystroke. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile, with its shorter 3.5 mm travel distance, is better suited for those who prioritize responsiveness in their key presses, making it a potentially more appealing choice for gamers seeking faster actuation. Ultimately, while both switches cater to different preferences, the Lucky's greater depth may enhance the typing experience for those who enjoy a more substantial keypress, contrasting with the swift and concise feel provided by the WS Silent Tactile.
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 Silent Tactile comes in at $4.20 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 is noted for its muted characteristics, providing a softer sound profile that is generally non-intrusive, making it suitable for both home and office environments. This characteristic aligns well with the WS Silent Tactile switch, which has been engineered for superior noise reduction and delivers a neutral and muted acoustic experience as well. The WS Silent Tactile's design allows for a quiet typing experience without the use of traditional silicone dampeners, positioning it as an excellent choice for those seeking a balance between sound control and a satisfying auditory response during typing. Thus, while both switches maintain a commitment to minimizing noise, the slight differences—particularly in the WS Silent Tactile's advanced noise-reducing engineering—may make it more suited for particularly quiet settings, whereas the Lucky’s sound profile fits comfortably in a wider range of environments.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Lucky switch offers a neutral and deeply satisfying typing experience characterized by a lightweight design. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile provides a medium tactility that is more pronounced and invigorating, creating an engaging tactile feedback that many typists may find appealing for extended sessions of typing. The WS Silent Tactile balances this with a mild and accented sensation, providing just enough tactility to be noticeable without overwhelming the user. Therefore, while both switches are likely to offer an enjoyable typing sensation, the HMX Lucky may cater more towards those who prefer a more reserved reaction from their keys, whereas the WS Silent Tactile appeals to users who appreciate a more tactile and snappy feedback.
In summary, both the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch offer unique advantages, particularly in sound and feel. The Lucky provides a softer, muted sound with a neutral typing experience, making it versatile across different environments. In comparison, the WS Silent Tactile excels in its noise reduction and tactile responsiveness, making it ideal for quiet workspaces without sacrificing feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences regarding sound levels and tactile sensations, as both can deliver satisfying typing experiences within their respective focuses.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch largely depends on your specific typing preferences and environment. If you favor a lightweight and deeply satisfying typing experience, the Lucky switch is an excellent pick. With its bottom-out force of just 43 grams, it allows for effortless keystrokes, making it ideal for long typing sessions, whether you're writing, gaming, or programming. Its soft nylon housing provides a neutral feel, allowing for smooth and fluid key presses. However, if you work in a shared office space or are sensitive to sound, the WS Silent Tactile switch may be more suitable for you. With a medium-heavy force of 63.5 grams, it offers a pleasing tactile feedback without generating excessive noise thanks to its innovative design that eliminates the need for traditional dampeners. The WS Silent Tactile combines muted sound with sharpened responsiveness, making it a versatile option for professional environments while still being enjoyable for casual typing. Ultimately, if you prioritize a quiet and responsive experience, go for the WS Silent Tactile, but if you're after a lighter, smoother feel, the HMX Lucky is your best bet.
Mentioned in this article
