HMX Swift vs. Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear
An in-depth look at the HMX Swift and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The HMX Swift linear switch is known for its deep sound profile and silky smoothness, setting it apart from other linear switches. With a delicate 42g actuation force, it offers a unique typing experience that is both feathery and bouncy. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch is favored for its smooth and high-pitched typing experience. Featuring a transparent polycarbonate top housing and UHMWPE bottom housing, these switches allow for maximum RGB lighting customization. The POM stem is lightly lubed, ensuring minimal friction and a satisfyingly smooth keystroke. While the Swift boasts a unique tactile feel, the WS Aurora Clear excels in customization and smoothness. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended spring
Spring
Double-staged stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Swift and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear, it is evident that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Swift features a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer texture that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the WS Aurora Clear opts for a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This distinction in materials showcases how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the sound output of a switch.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Swift and the WS Aurora Clear also differ in their choice of material. The Swift utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which mirrors the qualities of its top housing by providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear features a UHWMPE bottom housing, which offers a bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. This contrast highlights how the bottom housing material can contribute unique characteristics to the overall sound experience of a switch.
While the housing materials of the HMX Swift and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear are different, they both emphasize the importance of top and bottom housing materials in affecting the sound profile of a switch. Whether it be the softer nylon of the Swift or the stiffer polycarbonate of the WS Aurora Clear, each material brings its own set of qualities to enhance the typing experience. Understanding the impact of housing materials on sound profiles can help users make informed decisions when selecting switches for their keyboards based on their desired sound preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Swift linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch differ in weight, with the Swift being lighter and the WS Aurora Clear being heavier. The Swift has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear has an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, giving it a medium-heavy feel. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Swift would be the ideal choice. However, if a more substantial typing experience is desired with a stronger push feel, the WS Aurora Clear would be the better option. Both switches offer unique advantages based on the user's preference, ensuring a satisfying typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall on the shorter end of the spectrum, making them suitable for users who prioritize faster response times. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distance for quick keystrokes during gaming sessions. However, for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes, the 3.9 mm travel distance of the Swift may provide a slightly more satisfying feel compared to the 3.8 mm of the Aurora Clear. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
The Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear comes in at $8.00 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 Swift linear switch provides a slightly deeper and clackier sound profile, offering a more percussive and crisp sound experience when pressed. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch delivers a higher-pitched and sharper sound, which can be described as smooth and crisp. Both switches offer a unique auditory experience, with the Swift being on the deeper side and the WS Aurora Clear being on the higher end.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Swift linear switch is known for its easy-to-press and feathery qualities, providing a light and effortless typing experience. The WS Aurora Clear linear switch, on the other hand, offers a buttery and polished feel, ensuring smooth and refined key presses. While the Swift gives a bouncy and creamy typing sensation, the WS Aurora Clear provides a mild and approachable typing experience. Both switches excel in providing a comfortable and satisfying feel, catering to different preferences in key press resistance and tactile feedback.
Overall, the HMX Swift linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics, catering to different preferences in typing experience. Whether you prefer a deeper and clackier sound with easy-to-press and feathery feel, or a higher-pitched and buttery sound with polished and mild feel, both switches provide quality performance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the HMX Swift linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a deeper sound profile with a silky smoothness, the HMX Swift linear switch may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a smooth, high-pitched typing experience with maximum RGB lighting customization, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch would be the more suitable choice. Ultimately, the decision will depend on your personal preferences in terms of typing experience and sound profile.
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