HMX Sunset Gleam vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the HMX Sunset Gleam and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the differences between linear and tactile options can significantly influence your typing experience. The HMX Sunset Gleam, also known as the Duck Duck switch, is a linear switch that boasts a remarkable blend of materials, delivering a subtle top-out sensation and a satisfying clack, complemented by HMX's renowned factory lube. This switch is ideal for those who crave a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, making it a perfect choice for gamers and typists who prefer speed and fluidity. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a distinctively tactile experience with a robust 70g bump and immersive resistance, producing a captivating "thocky" sound that ensures each keypress is engaging and satisfying. This switch caters to users who appreciate feedback and a more pronounced tactile response during their typing sessions. Both switches have their merits, appealing to different preferences and use cases; 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
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Sunset Gleam and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile, a clear distinction arises between the materials used for their top housings. The Sunset Gleam employs polycarbonate for its top housing, a material known for its stiffness and propensity to produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This characteristic lends itself well to the clarity and resonance of the sound when a key is released. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile features a nylon top housing, which absorbs sound and results in a duller and rounder sound profile. The difference in these materials directly influences the auditory experience when typing, particularly in how each switch returns the sound upon release.
Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which creates an interesting contrast in terms of how the materials affect the overall typing experience. In this case, since both switches feature the same nylon material in their bottoms, they will share a deeper, fuller sound profile mainly attributed to this softer plastic. The nylon bottom housing is pivotal in shaping the bottom-out sound and feel, creating a consistent experience across both switches. This similarity ensures that while the top sound may differ due to the differing materials—polycarbonate for the Sunset Gleam and nylon for the WS Heavy Tactile—the overall typing experience will have a consistent depth and richness due to the nylon in the bottom housing.
Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in both the Sunset Gleam and the WS Heavy Tactile switches presents a nuanced sound profile that appeals to different preferences. The Stiffer polycarbonate of the Sunset Gleam lends itself to a more vibrant acoustic expression, while the dual nylon housings in both switches reinforce a more subdued and controlled auditory output. Because of these differences, players may choose one switch over the other based on their desired acoustic experience. However, regardless of the selection, the shared presence of nylon in the bottom halves guarantees a level of sonic depth that can be appreciated across both models, highlighting how varied materials work together to create unique tactile and auditory experiences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch to the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Sunset Gleam has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a smoother typing experience that minimizes strain during long sessions. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile features a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a significantly heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, catering to users who enjoy a more substantial and resistant feel while typing. As such, the Sunset Gleam is the lighter option, while the WS Heavy Tactile is heavier, providing a more pronounced tactile feedback. These differences suggest that users seeking a gentle touch may gravitate towards the Sunset Gleam, while those desiring a firmer resistance might opt for the WS Heavy Tactile for a satisfying tactile experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. This means that the Sunset Gleam offers a longer travel distance compared to the WS Heavy Tactile. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the WS Heavy Tactile due to its shorter travel distance, which can facilitate quicker key presses ideal for gaming. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam's longer travel distance may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial depth in their key presses, offering a different typing experience that feels less abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences, with the Sunset Gleam providing a deeper travel experience and the WS Heavy Tactile delivering quicker responsiveness.
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 Heavy Tactile 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Sunset Gleam switch stands out for its “subtle top-out and satisfying clack,” which can create an engaging auditory experience without overwhelming noise. The excellent factory lube further enhances this performance, leading to a cleaner and more refined sound. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch is characterized by its distinct “clacky” quality, delivering a sharp, bright sound that can be described as resonant and high-pitched. This makes typing on the WS Heavy Tactile a more pronounced auditory experience, producing a captivating “thocky” sound that resonates well for those who enjoy a more dynamic sound profile. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences, but the Sunset Gleam leans toward a more subtle sound, while the WS Heavy Tactile focuses on sharper, more engaging auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the Sunset Gleam’s characteristics are not specified directly, leaving a gap in understanding its tactile feedback. However, the WS Heavy Tactile switch is designed to deliver a profound tactile experience, with a notable 70g bump that offers immersive resistance. Users will find the typing experience invigorating due to the pronounced, sharp tactile feedback and a snappy responsiveness, making it suitable for those who enjoy an engaging interaction with their keyboard. The combination of accented, bouncy, and snappy qualities adds to its appeal, making each keystroke feel lively and dynamic. Without information on the Sunset Gleam's feel, it’s difficult to make a direct comparison, but the tactile responsiveness of the WS Heavy Tactile definitely stands out.
In conclusion, the HMX Sunset Gleam switch presents a refined auditory experience with a subtle clack, enhanced by high-quality factory lube, making it well-suited for users who prefer a more understated sound. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile offers an exciting and engaging experience, both audibly and tactilely, with its sharp, high-pitched clack and pronounced tactile feedback. Each switch caters to different preferences in sound and feel, making them appealing to various types of users. The Sunset Gleam might be ideal for those who appreciate finesse, while the WS Heavy Tactile is perfect for those who seek an engaging and immersive typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch fundamentally depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a lighter, smooth typing experience with a moderate bottom-out force of 48 grams, the Sunset Gleam will be your ally. This switch is especially suitable if you enjoy a satisfying yet quiet experience with a subtle sound profile, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or environments where noise is a concern. On the other hand, if you seek a more pronounced tactile feedback and enjoy the engaging, "thocky" sound of a medium-heavy switch, the WS Heavy Tactile will appeal to you. With a bottom-out force of 70 grams, this switch provides a distinct and invigorating typing sensation that is both snappy and rewarding, making it perfect for those who love tactile responses and don't mind a bit of auditory presence. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing habits, whether you prioritize smoothness and quietness or tactile engagement and pronounced feedback, allowing you to find the switch that best enhances your keyboard experience.
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