HMX Swift vs. Wuque Studio WS Dash
An in-depth look at the HMX Swift and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two distinct options that cater to different preferences are the HMX Swift and the Wuque Studio WS Dash. The HMX Swift, a linear switch, is celebrated for its deeper sound profile thanks to its full nylon housings, providing a unique auditory experience that contrasts with the typically brighter sound signature of other switches. With a delicate actuation force of 42g, it offers a smooth, feathery feel that many typists and gamers find appealing. In contrast, the WS Dash employs Hall Effect technology, bringing forth a bright, clacky sound signature that appeals to users seeking a more pronounced acoustic feedback. Its silky smooth keystroke is reminiscent of the popular Magnetic Jade design, making it a refined option for those who enjoy a tactile typographical experience. While the Swift delivers a soft and bouncy feel suitable for effortless typing, the WS Dash caters to those who desire a sharper auditory cue and a distinct actuation feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your personal preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.90 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Swift and the Wuque Studio WS Dash exhibit notable differences in their top housing materials, which significantly influence their typing acoustics. The Swift features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's soft plastic composition, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the WS Dash employs a polycarbonate top housing, recognized for its stiffer nature, which yields a higher-pitched, crisper sound. This distinction implies that users seeking a more thunderous keystroke may prefer the Swift, while those who desire a sharper and more resonant typing experience might opt for the WS Dash.
Conversely, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, leading to a shared auditory quality that unifies their sound profiles at the bottom-out point. The nylon bottom housing in both the Swift and WS Dash contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, which means that the typing experience during key presses is consistent across these two models. Since nylon excels at absorbing sound, it tempers the overall noise produced when the key bottoms out, ensuring a pleasant tactile feedback for users in either case. Thus, irrespective of the differences present in the top housings, both switches provide a harmonious auditory experience when pressed down.
Overall, while the top housings of the Swift and WS Dash are fundamentally different—nylon producing a duller tone versus polycarbonate's crispness—the bottom housings align in their use of nylon, creating a cohesive auditory experience during the typing action. This combination gives rise to a compelling dynamic where users will experience distinct sounds upon key release due to the top housing, but are treated to a similar foundational sound depth at the bottom due to the nylon material in both circuits. For individuals who appreciate a blend of both auditory characteristics, selecting between these two models depends on their preference for top housing sound profiles, while still enjoying a deeper undertone from the shared nylon bottom housings.
Weight
The HMX Swift linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch exhibit notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces, contributing to their unique typing experiences. The Swift has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the WS Dash's actuation force of 30 grams, making the Dash the lighter option in terms of key actuation. However, when considering the bottom out forces, the Swift reaches 50 grams while the Dash is slightly higher at 55 grams, making the Dash the heavier switch overall. This contrast means that while both switches have their appeal, the Swift allows for quicker keystrokes with less effort, suitable for those who type for extended periods or prefer a more effortless experience. Conversely, the WS Dash, with its heavier bottom out force, might provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for users who enjoy a solid push feel while typing or gaming. Overall, both switches cater to different preferences, with the Swift favoring lighter keystrokes and the WS Dash offering a balance that leans towards a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch measures a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference in travel distance highlights a key consideration for users: the Swift, with its deeper travel, may provide a more substantial feel and feedback upon activation, appealing to those who prefer a more traditional typing experience. In contrast, the WS Dash’s shorter travel distance can offer quicker actuation, which is often favored by gamers looking for faster response times. Thus, if you prioritize responsiveness, the WS Dash would be the better choice, whereas the Swift might be more comfortable for those who enjoy a fuller keystroke. In summary, the Swift represents the longer travel distance, and the WS Dash has the shorter travel distance, making them suited for different user preferences.
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 Dash comes in at $7.49 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 switch distinguishes itself with a deeper sound profile, thanks to its full nylon housings. This characteristic translates to a more subdued and rich auditory experience compared to the commonly brighter tones of other switches. The Swift produces a clacky sound that is sharp and crisp, providing a satisfying acoustic feedback that many typists and gamers might appreciate. In contrast, while the WS Dash hall effect switch's sound signature isn't explicitly defined, it is implied to deliver a bright and clacky tone as well. This suggests that users might find both switches enjoyable for their distinctive sound, though the Swift could be perceived as more muted and resonant in sound when compared to the Dash's potentially lighter and more piercing sound.
As for the feel, the HMX Swift switches offer an incredibly light actuation force of 42g, making them easy to press, which minimizes finger fatigue during longer typing sessions. The blend of qualities like a feathery touch, a bouncy response, and a creamy smoothness allows for an effortless typing experience that feels both responsive and comfortable. The WS Dash doesn't have a detailed description of its feel, which leaves a gap in understanding how it compares in terms of tactile feedback and comfort. It remains critical to consider that both switches prioritize user comfort, but the specifics may vary significantly with the Dash's lack of descriptors.
In conclusion, while both the HMX Swift and WS Dash switches offer a unique auditory experience, they cater to different sound preferences, with the Swift leaning into a deeper and richer quality. The Swift also boasts a well-defined tactile experience characterized by its light actuation and smooth keystrokes, likely making it a compelling choice for those looking for comfort and ease. Without detailed information on the feel of the WS Dash, it becomes challenging to fully compare their tactile experiences. Nonetheless, users seeking a specific sound and a silky smooth typing experience might consider the Swift the more appealing option based on its established qualities.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Swift linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch will largely depend on your personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and the typing experience you seek. If you prefer a light, easy-to-press switch with a deeper sound profile, the HMX Swift is an excellent choice, particularly if you engage in extensive typing sessions where comfort and reduced finger fatigue are priorities. Its silky smooth feel and subtle bounce make it ideal for both gaming and prolonged work. On the other hand, if you are drawn to a more refined and bright typing experience, the WS Dash hall effect switch could be your go-to. With its medium-light force and captivating clacky sound, this switch provides a unique auditory and tactile feedback that enhances your interaction with the keyboard. Ultimately, consider how each switch aligns with your typing style, whether you prefer a deeper, richer sound or a bright, sharp response, and choose accordingly to elevate your mechanical keyboard experience.
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