HMX Perky vs. Wuque Studio WS Dash
An in-depth look at the HMX Perky and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Perky and Wuque Studio WS Dash each offer unique advantages that cater to different typing preferences. The HMX Perky, a linear switch, is renowned for its softer nylon housings which provide a smooth and neutral typing experience, complemented by a shorter travel distance that leads to a more condensed tactile feel. This makes it an excellent choice for users who prioritize speed and comfort during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the WS Dash features a Hall Effect design, showcasing a bright and clacky sound signature paired with a silky smooth keystroke, making it ideal for those who enjoy auditory feedback and a more refined typing experience. While the Perky enhances efficiency with its satisfying linear response, the WS Dash brings character to each keystroke with its distinctive sound and feel. 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
43g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Perky and the Wuque Studio WS Dash, a striking contrast emerges in their top housing components. The Perky utilizes nylon for its upper housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is primarily due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a duller tapping sound that many typists appreciate for its muted and rich acoustic quality. In contrast, the WS Dash employs polycarbonate for its top housing. This material is known for its rigidity and transparency, which creates a sharper, crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffer composition enhances the clarity of the sound, producing a more resonant and vibrant auditory experience. For users looking for RGB compatibility, the clear nature of polycarbonate allows for light diffusion, adding an aesthetically pleasing element to the typing experience.
Examining the bottom housing reveals a point of similarity between the two switches. Both the Perky and WS Dash feature nylon in their bottom housing, which also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This consistency means that, despite the contrast in the upper housings, users will experience a similar richness in sound when pressing down on either switch. The impact of the bottom housing on the overall feel and sound when bottoming out is significant; the nylon absorbs sound and vibrations, resulting in a softer landing. Thus, both switches provide a cohesive sound quality at the bottom end, aligning the user experience in terms of tactile feedback and acoustic richness.
Overall, the differences in top housing material lead to distinct sound profiles when typing on the HMX Perky and Wuque Studio WS Dash. While the Perky offers a rounded auditory experience due to its nylon top, the WS Dash serves up a crisp and clear typing audio thanks to its polycarbonate top. However, the nylon bottom housing shared by both switches mitigates some of this contrast, enriching the typing experience consistently at the point of actuation. Users seeking a switch that reflects nuanced acoustic qualities will discover that the combination of materials results in a differentiated yet complementary typing experience across both models, with each bringing its unique flair to the overall soundscape.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Perky linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, notable distinctions in their actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Perky has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, while the WS Dash features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams. This means that the WS Dash is easier to activate, making it potentially more suitable for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons where reduced finger fatigue is desired. However, the Perky's bottom out force is measured at 50 grams, while the WS Dash has a slightly higher bottom out force of 55 grams. This implies that while the WS Dash is easier to press down, it requires a bit more force when fully depressed, providing a more substantial feel compared to the Perky. In summary, the WS Dash is the lighter option concerning actuation force, while the Perky offers a noticeably more balanced bottom out feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Perky linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, the differences are quite slight but significant for users. The Perky has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it the shorter option, while the WS Dash features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference of just 0.1 mm highlights the tailored experiences both switches provide for varying preferences. For gamers or users who prioritize responsiveness, the Perky's shorter travel distance may facilitate quicker actuation, whereas those who favor a more substantial keystroke might find the WS Dash's longer distance provides the feel they seek. Ultimately, both switches offer a modern take on travel distance, yet cater to different tactile experiences based on their respective measurements.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Perky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Perky for $2.99.
The Wuque Studio WS Dash has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Dash for $7.49.
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
The sound profile of the HMX Perky linear switch is characterized by its muted, subtle tone, contributing to a quieter typing experience that allows for focused work. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch produces a bright and clacky sound signature, providing a more pronounced auditory feedback that some typists may find exhilarating and engaging. While the Perky offers a softer sound due to its design, the WS Dash's sound is accentuated by its hall effect mechanism, making the two switches distinct in their auditory qualities.
When it comes to feel, the Perky delivers a neutral and deeply satisfying keystroke, largely credited to its softer nylon housing, which can potentially lead to a more comfortable typing experience over extended periods. The shorter travel distance of the Perky may also contribute to a more condensed and efficient typing rhythm. Meanwhile, the WS Dash boasts a silky smooth keystroke that is characteristic of hall effect switches, offering a unique tactile experience that can enhance the fluidity of typing. Together, these differences in feel highlight a divergence in the typing experiences provided by each switch.
In summary, while the HMX Perky linear switch offers a softer sound and a neutral feel conducive to a quiet and comfortable typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch provides a more vibrant acoustic profile paired with a silky keystroke that many may find appealing. These subjective qualities cater to different preferences, making the choice between them largely dependent on whether one prioritizes a muted or clacky sound and a comfortable or engaging typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the HMX Perky linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences, typing style, and the specific experience you seek from your mechanical keyboard. If you prefer a lighter touch with a subtle, satisfying feel that allows for rapid typing, the HMX Perky switch is likely your best bet. Its 50 grams of bottom-out force and shorter travel distance make it ideal for those who value speed and a neatly condensed typing experience. Additionally, if you enjoy a more neutral sound profile that doesn't distract from overall keyboard usage, the Perky excels in that area. In contrast, if you're after a more refined typing experience that incorporates a unique sound profile, the WS Dash might be the switch for you. With a slightly higher bottom-out force of 55 grams, it provides a medium-light feel which may suit those who enjoy a bit more resistance. The hallmark of the WS Dash is its bright, clacky sound signature and silky smooth keystroke, making it a great choice for users who appreciate auditory feedback along with a robust tactile response. By assessing how you prioritize typing speed, sound quality, and the level of force exerted, you can make a more informed decision on which switch will best suit your needs.
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