HMX Sunset Gleam vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the HMX Sunset Gleam and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preference and the desired typing experience. The HMX Sunset Gleam, also affectionately known as the Duck Duck switch, is a premium linear switch that boasts a harmonious mix of materials, providing a slightly tactile top-out alongside a satisfying clack, enhanced by HMX's renowned factory lube. This switch is perfect for those who appreciate a touch of acoustic feedback while enjoying a smooth keystroke, making it an excellent choice for both gaming and typing. Conversely, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear offers a unique solution for those who seek a quieter operation without sacrificing responsiveness. With its innovative stem railings featuring discreet cutouts, this switch minimizes noise and caters to users who prefer a more tranquil work environment, all while delivering a precise and engaging typing feel. While both switches are linear and designed for smooth keystrokes, their distinctive characteristics cater to different needs in terms of auditory feedback and typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Sunset Gleam and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear differentiate themselves notably in their top housing materials, with the Sunset Gleam featuring polycarbonate and the WS Silent Linear employing nylon. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, produces a sharper and more resonant sound profile, making it particularly suitable for users who appreciate a high-pitched auditory feedback when typing. This quality is further enhanced by the material's translucency, which allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects, creating an integrated visual and auditory experience. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the WS Silent Linear creates a deeper, fuller sound profile, leaning towards a more muted experience. This softer plastic absorbs sound waves effectively, resulting in a rounded sound that can be more pleasant in quieter environments or for users who prefer a less pronounced auditory response.
On the other hand, both the Sunset Gleam and WS Silent Linear utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which brings a consistent element to their overall sound profiles. The nylon in the bottom housing contributes to a duller and rounder sound, as it absorbs high-frequency noise and minimizes vibrations. This similarity in material choice for the bottom housing means that, despite the contrasting top housings, both switches will evoke a deeper and fuller auditory experience when pressed down. Given that the bottom housing has a significant bearing on the bottom-out sound and feel, users can expect a satisfying tactile experience from both switches, irrespective of the differences in their top housing materials.
In summary, while the HMX Sunset Gleam and Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear exhibit contrasting characteristics in their top housing materials, both utilize nylon in their bottoms, leading to complementary sound profiles. The Sunset Gleam's polycarbonate top adds brightness and clarity while allowing for effective RGB lighting displays, whereas the WS Silent Linear’s nylon top fosters a muted and smooth experience. Ultimately, users may choose between the enhanced sound clarity of the Sunset Gleam and the more subdued auditory feedback of the WS Silent Linear, knowing that they will still benefit from a consistent tactile and deeper sound experience provided by the nylon bottoms.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, significant differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Sunset Gleam features a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer effortless typing over extended periods, such as during long gaming sessions or work. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy, but its actuation force is unknown. This discrepancy suggests that while the Sunset Gleam provides a lighter and more user-friendly experience, the WS Silent Linear would offer a sturdier feel, appealing to those who appreciate a heavier typing experience. Therefore, if you favor a lighter switch for prolonged use, the Sunset Gleam would be the better choice, while the WS Silent Linear may suit those who prefer a more substantial push feel in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
The HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.5 mm, indicating that they provide an identical experience in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. This similarity means that users can expect comparable tactile feedback and actuation depth when using either switch, making them ideal choices for those seeking uniformity in keypress performance. Since both switches share the same travel distance, users will enjoy similar results in terms of responsiveness and feel, regardless of which switch they choose.
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 Silent Linear 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 Sunset Gleam distinguishes itself with a subtle top-out combined with a satisfying clack, making it an engaging choice for those who appreciate a touch of auditory feedback. This blend of sounds can enhance the typing experience, adding a pleasing accent to each keystroke. Conversely, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch offers a considerably muted auditory profile. With descriptors like neutral, muted, and subdued, this switch excels in minimizing the noise typical of mechanical keyboards while still providing a pleasant and soft sound. The result is a serene typing environment ideal for offices or shared spaces, making it a perfect option for those looking to keep noise to a minimum.
When assessing the feel of these two switches, the Sunset Gleam remains somewhat elusive, as specific details on its tactile feedback are not provided. However, given its noted characteristics, it likely delivers a satisfying experience that balances responsiveness and smoothness. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear switches offer a mild feel that emphasizes a gentle typing experience. This characteristic makes the WS Silent Linear approachable for various users, providing a balance that caters to both newcomers and seasoned typists.
In summary, while the HMX Sunset Gleam offers a lively auditory experience with its clacky sounds, the WS Silent Linear prioritizes quietude with its subdued, muted signature. As for feel, the Sunset Gleam's specifics are not outlined, while the WS Silent Linear provides a consistently gentle typing experience. If a user is seeking a unique feel and lively sound, the Sunset Gleam would be more suitable, whereas those who prioritize tranquility and mildness in both sound and feel will find the WS Silent Linear to be an excellent choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Sunset Gleam and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches ultimately depends on your specific preferences and typing environment. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and enjoy a blend of satisfying responsiveness with a subtle auditory feedback, the Sunset Gleam would suit you well, especially if you like a bit of a "clack" while typing. This switch is also an excellent choice for gaming or casual typing where that tactile experience can enhance your engagement. On the other hand, if you require a switch that is quieter for an office or shared space, the WS Silent Linear would be more appropriate. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force and unique design provide a muted sound that allows you to type with precision without disturbing those around you. The WS Silent Linear strikes a balance between tranquility and responsiveness, making it ideal for maintaining focus in a quieter environment. Ultimately, consider your typical usage scenario and personal tactile preferences as you select between these two distinctly different yet appealing switches.
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