HMX Swift vs. Wuque Studio WS Brown
An in-depth look at the HMX Swift and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Swift and the Wuque Studio WS Brown offer unique experiences for users. The Swift is a linear switch characterized by a deeper sound profile and silky smoothness, making it perfect for those who prefer a quieter and more refined typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Brown is a tactile switch that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort, providing users with a familiar and delightful auditory experience. While the Swift is described as 'Clacky', 'Easy-to-press', 'Feathery', 'Bouncy', and 'Creamy', the WS Brown's characteristics are yet to be categorized. Each switch has its own strengths and qualities that cater to different preferences, but ultimately the choice comes down to personal preference. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Swift and the Wuque Studio WS Brown both utilize nylon as their housing material for switches, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using switches with nylon housings in both the Swift and WS Brown.
However, while both keyboards use nylon for their top housing, the bottom housing of the Swift and WS Brown may differ. The bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, so any variations in material could impact the overall typing experience. It's important to consider how the different bottom housings may affect the tactile feedback and overall sound of the switches when comparing the HMX Swift and the WS Brown.
Despite any potential differences in the bottom housing material, the overall typing experience on the HMX Swift and the WS Brown should still showcase the qualities of nylon as a switch housing material. Both keyboards are likely to provide a similar level of sound absorption, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Whether pressing down on keys or releasing them, users can expect a consistent and satisfying typing experience with nylon housings in both the HMX Swift and the WS Brown.
Weight
The HMX Swift linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch has a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, with the actuation force being unknown. This means that the WS Brown switch may provide a slightly more substantial typing experience compared to the Swift switch. When considering weight, the Swift switch would be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions, while the WS Brown switch may be better suited for those who prefer a bit more resistance in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular for their quick response times, particularly among gamers. However, the slight difference in travel distance may result in a slightly different feel when typing or gaming. Those who prefer a more responsive and snappy feel may prefer the HMX Swift, while those who prefer a slightly deeper key press may lean towards the WS Brown. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and how the specific travel distance feels to the individual user.
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 Brown 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 Swift linear switch offers a unique clacky sound that is sharp and snappy, providing a crisp and bright auditory experience that stands out from typical linear switches. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch is known for producing a familiar and delightful sound that enthusiasts cherish, thanks to its nylon housing and POM stem combination. While the exact sound profile of the WS Brown tactile switch is not specified, it is likely to offer a pleasant and satisfying typing experience for those who appreciate tactile feedback.
Moving on to feel, the HMX Swift linear switch is characterized by an easy-to-press and feathery typing experience, with minimal resistance and a light actuation force that enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the bouncy and creamy attributes of the Swift switch provide a smooth and enjoyable typing sensation that is highly valued by users. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch is described as offering a medium-light actuation force that strikes a harmonious balance between responsiveness and comfort, ensuring effortless typing and fatigue-free typing sessions for users.
Overall, while the HMX Swift linear switch and Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities, they both provide a superior typing experience that is tailored to the preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prefer the clacky and smooth sound signature of the Swift switch or the familiar and delightful typing experience of the WS Brown switch, you can expect a high level of performance and comfort from both switches, making them excellent choices for anyone looking to elevate their typing experience on a mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Swift linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you enjoy a silky smooth typing experience with minimal effort, the Swift switch with its easy-to-press and feathery feel might be the better choice for you. Additionally, the deeper sound profile of the Swift switch could appeal to those looking for a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a harmonious blend of responsiveness and comfort along with a familiar and delightful auditory experience, the WS Brown switch with its medium-light actuation force and familiar nylon housing may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and desired typing experience.
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