HMX Sunset Gleam vs. Wuque Studio WS Dash
An in-depth look at the HMX Sunset Gleam and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves at a crossroads between different technologies and characteristics that suit their typing preferences. The HMX Sunset Gleam, commonly referred to as the Duck Duck switch, is a linear switch celebrated for its carefully engineered blend of materials, offering a subtle top-out and a gratifying clack, complemented by the excellent factory lubrication that HMX is known for. This makes it an ideal choice for users who prioritize a smooth and consistent keystroke combined with satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Dash, a Hall Effect switch, introduces a notable refinement with its bright and clacky sound profile and silky smooth keystrokes. This switch is particularly appealing for those who appreciate innovative technology and a unique typing experience. Each switch brings its own charm to the table, catering to different preferences, making the choice between the two intriguing yet challenging. 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
42g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In analyzing the housing materials of the HMX Sunset Gleam and the Wuque Studio WS Dash, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice leads to a similar sound profile characterized by sharpness and clarity. The stiffer molecular structure of polycarbonate enhances the resonance of the sound produced when a key is actuated, resulting in a higher-pitched and crisper auditory experience. Furthermore, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, which allows for effective diffusion of RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal for users who value illuminated keyboards.
In contrast, the bottom housing of both the Sunset Gleam and the WS Dash is made from nylon, a classic choice known for its distinctive sound characteristics. Nylon’s softer composition absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, producing a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing. This material choice contrasts with the polycarbonate top housing by contributing to a rounder sound, affecting the perception of the switch's acoustic properties when keys are bottomed out. Therefore, when pressed, the resultant sound and tactile feedback will be noticeably different from the sound produced at the release stage governed by the stiffer polycarbonate top.
The combination of polycarbonate tops and nylon bottoms in both switches leads to a unique interplay of sound qualities. The Nylon bottoms provide a subdued depth, while the polycarbonate tops create clarity, effectively balancing the overall auditory experience of each switch. Given these similarities in material choices, users can expect a cohesive sound profile when using either switch, with the primary distinction lying in the tactile experience resulting from the bottom housing properties. Ultimately, both switches promise an enjoyable typing experience through their thoughtful material selection, even if each delivers a subtly different auditory dynamic.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Sunset Gleam features an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it lighter and ideal for those seeking a less strenuous typing experience for extended periods. In contrast, the WS Dash has a lower actuation force of 30 grams, which contributes to a lighter feel during initial keystrokes, but it has a higher bottom out force of 55 grams, indicating a more substantial resistance when fully pressed. This can create a more tactile and engaging typing experience for users who prefer greater feedback. Overall, while the Sunset Gleam offers a balanced light touch for both actuation and bottoming out, the WS Dash's lighter actuation force contrasts with its heavier bottom out, catering to different user preferences in typing dynamics.
Travel distance
The HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch each have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This identical travel distance means that users can expect a comparable feel when pressing down on these keys, offering a similar typing experience in terms of keypress depth. Since both switches travel the same distance from top to bottom, users looking for consistency in key actuation will find both options to be equally suitable for their needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Sunset Gleam has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sunset Gleam 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 Sunset Gleam linear switch is characterized by a subtle top-out and a satisfying clack, thanks in part to the excellent factory lube applied by HMX, which enhances the overall acoustic experience. In comparison, the WS Dash switches produce a bright and clacky sound signature, offering a lively auditory feedback that complements their refined aesthetic. Both switches can deliver satisfying sounds, but the Sunset Gleam leans toward a more muted, controlled experience while the WS Dash presents a more pronounced, lively clack—though ultimately, your keyboard and keycap choices will influence how these sounds manifest in your setup.
When it comes to feel, the Sunset Gleam is designed to provide a smooth linear experience, which promotes quick and effortless keystrokes that many typists find enjoyable. The WS Dash, on the other hand, offers a silky smooth keystroke enhanced by its Hall Effect technology, ensuring an ultra-smooth actuation without the traditional tactile bumps found in some other switches. Both switches promise a high level of smoothness, appealing to users looking for seamless typing sessions, but the WS Dash may introduce a different nuance through its innovative mechanics.
In conclusion, both the HMX Sunset Gleam and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches offer unique auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The Sunset Gleam provides a more subdued and controlled sound with a smooth feel, while the WS Dash excels in delivering a bright, clacky sound and an ultra-smooth keystroke. Ultimately, your choice may boil down to whether you prefer a more refined auditory experience or a lively sound, both of which can be enjoyable in their own right.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch ultimately hinges on your preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. If you favor a lighter actuation force for a more effortless typing experience, especially during long sessions of coding or writing, the Sunset Gleam would be an ideal fit. It offers a smooth and satisfying keystroke with a subtle clack that strikes a nice balance between efficiency and tactile pleasure. On the other hand, if you seek a bit more resistance and a lively sound profile, the WS Dash might be your go-to choice. With its medium-light bottom-out force and the lively, bright, clacky sound signature characteristic of hall effect switches, it provides an exciting tactile sensation that can enhance gaming and typing alike. By carefully considering the nuances of both switches and how they align with your typing style, you can make a more informed decision that enhances your overall keyboard experience.
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