HMX Perky vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the HMX Perky and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Perky and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow offer distinct yet appealing experiences for typists and gamers alike. The HMX Perky stands out with its softer nylon housings and a reduced travel distance, delivering a typing feel that's both neutral and deeply satisfying, ideal for those seeking comfort and efficiency in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the WS Yellow marries classic materials with modern engineering, featuring a unique 22mm double-stage spring that provides a delightful bounce and a familiar sound signature, making it a favorite among enthusiasts. The lightweight design of the WS Yellow ensures effortless keystrokes, perfect for prolonged typing sessions or fast-paced gaming. Each switch offers unique advantages—those who prefer a more condensed typing experience might gravitate towards the Perky, while those in search of a polished and bouncy feel might choose the WS Yellow. 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
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
T2
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 extended single-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Perky and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow both feature nylon as their housing material for both the top and bottom components. This shared material choice means that both switches will provide a consistent typing experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is recognized for its properties as a softer plastic, which contributes to sound absorption and results in a duller and rounder acoustic quality. As users engage with either switch, they can expect a similar auditory experience due to the consistent use of nylon in both housings, ensuring that the sound signature remains pleasingly rich regardless of the specific model chosen.
In addition to sound characteristics, the use of nylon in both the top and bottom housings leads to a similar tactile experience when typing. During pressing, the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing characterizes the sound upon key release. Since both the Perky and WS Yellow utilize nylon for both components, the separation of tactile and acoustic qualities remains consistent. This means that users will experience similar feedback during keypresses and releases, with sound dynamics remaining uniform, contributing to an overall harmonious feel across different typing scenarios.
While the HMX Perky and the WS Yellow exhibit similarities in housing materials, it is worth noting how certain nuances may arise in the tactile response between the two switches depending on their individual design characteristics. If there are slight variations in the construction or design beyond the housing material itself, these could lead to different typing experiences despite the homogenized sound profile. However, because both switches share the same nylon properties, any divergences in feel or responsiveness would likely be subtle, allowing users to enjoy a mostly comparable performance with each model, particularly in terms of sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Perky linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, we see notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Perky switch features a relatively light actuation force of 43 grams, requiring less effort to trigger a keystroke, which can be ideal for extended typing sessions and gaming marathons. In contrast, the WS Yellow switch does not provide a specific actuation force measurement, leaving it unknown; however, it has a bottom out force of 53 grams, which is slightly higher than the Perky's bottom out force of 50 grams. This means the WS Yellow has a marginally firmer feel when fully pressed down, contributing to a more substantial typing experience. Therefore, while the Perky is the lighter option overall, the WS Yellow’s bottom-out force suggests it may cater to those who prefer a slightly heavier feel, despite the ambiguity surrounding its actuation force. Ultimately, users seeking a lighter touch may gravitate towards the Perky, while those who appreciate a more pronounced resistance might prefer the WS Yellow for its bottom out characteristics.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Perky linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, we find notable differences. The Perky switch features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the WS Yellow switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the Perky switch the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, as it allows for faster key presses. In contrast, the WS Yellow's 3.8 mm travel distance provides a more traditional feel, potentially offering a deeper and more satisfying tactile experience. Therefore, users who prefer a more responsive feel might gravitate towards the Perky switch, whereas those who enjoy a moderate depth in their keystrokes may favor the longer travel distance of the WS Yellow switch.
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 Yellow 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 Perky switch is noted for its unique acoustic signature, although specific details about its sound characteristics are not provided. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switch features a familiar sound signature cherished by enthusiasts, likely influenced by its blend of classic materials and engineering excellence. As sound can be susceptible to variations caused by the keyboard’s construction and the type of keycaps used, both switches will produce different results in varied setups, but the WS Yellow is particularly distinguished by its consistency and pleasing auditory quality.
When it comes to feel, the Perky switch is renowned for its neutral yet deeply satisfying typing experience, which is ideal for those who appreciate a more condensed keystroke due to its shorter travel distance. In contrast, the WS Yellow offers a creamy, mild, and polished typing sensation, characterized by a silky smoothness that feels almost effortless. This combination ensures that typists experience a pleasant bounce with each keystroke, allowing for prolonged comfort during typing sessions. While both switches aim to provide gratifying feels, the Perky leans towards a more straightforward experience, while the WS Yellow emphasizes a smoother, more luxurious touch.
Overall, both the HMX Perky and Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switches cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard usage. The Perky provides a neutral typing experience with shorter travel for a more compact feel, and its sound remains ambiguously satisfying. Conversely, the WS Yellow excels with its luxurious, smooth keystrokes, enriched by its unique sound profile that enthusiasts cherish. While both switches may lead to enjoyable typing experiences, they do so by appealing to distinct sensibilities, giving users options to match their personal preferences for feel and sound in their keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Perky linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your typing preferences and the specific experience you are seeking. If you favor a lightweight feel with a softer bottom-out force, the Perky is an excellent choice. Its glittery nylon housing and shorter travel distance provide a condensed typing experience that is neutral yet deeply satisfying. This makes the Perky ideal for those who type swiftly or enjoy a nimble, responsive key feel. On the other hand, if you appreciate a bit more resistance and a delightful bounce in your keystrokes, the WS Yellow switch might be more to your liking. With a medium-light 53 grams bottoming out, a creamy and polished typing experience, and a sound profile that has become a favorite among enthusiasts, the WS Yellow is perfect for those who want a smooth yet engaging typing process. In conclusion, consider what aspects are most important to you—whether it's the lighter touch of the Perky or the balanced, satisfying response of the WS Yellow—as both switches offer distinct benefits that can enhance your overall mechanical keyboard experience.
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