HMX Swift vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the HMX Swift and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Swift linear switch to the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, there are notable distinctions between the two that can help you determine which one is best suited for your preferences. The Swift is revered for its deeper sound profile and silky smooth actuation, offering a delicate typing experience with a light 42g actuation force. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch stands out for its immersive resistance and profound tactile feedback, featuring a 70g bump that provides a satisfyingly "thocky" sound. While the Swift is described as 'clacky', 'easy-to-press', 'feathery', 'bouncy', and 'creamy', the WS Heavy Tactile is characterized as 'accented', 'bouncy', 'clacky', 'high-pitched', 'invigorating', 'resonant', 'sharp', and 'snappy'. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 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
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the HMX Swift and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile utilize nylon as the material for their top and bottom switch housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon as a housing material. Therefore, both switches will likely produce a similar sound profile when typing due to their shared nylon housing material.
However, while their housing materials are the same, the HMX Swift and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile may differ in the overall feel of the switches. The qualities of the bottom housing material are more pronounced when pressing down on a switch, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. This means that even though both switches share nylon housing materials, their overall typing experience could differ based on the specific design and construction of each switch.
In conclusion, the HMX Swift and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile share the use of nylon as their switch housing material, which contributes to a similar deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. However, the specific feel of the switches may differ as the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials interact differently with the typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with unique characteristics based on their design and construction.
Weight
The HMX Swift linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. Additionally, the Swift has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, while the WS Heavy Tactile has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams. This means that the Swift provides a smoother and lighter typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a more effortless keystroke. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a more substantial and tactile typing experience, suitable for those who prefer a more pronounced push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference - whether you prefer a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. In this case, the WS Heavy Tactile has a shorter travel distance compared to the Swift. The Swift falls in the category of shorter travel distances often preferred by gamers for quicker response times, while the WS Heavy Tactile offers a bit more depth for those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing the keys. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, so choosing between the two would depend on whether you prioritize speed or a more satisfying key press sensation.
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 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 Swift linear switch offers a unique deep and silky smooth typing experience with a delicate 42g actuation force, leading to a quieter and more subdued sound profile. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch delivers a distinctive "thocky" sound accompanied by a 70g bump, providing a more immersive and engaging auditory experience. Both switches offer a clacky sound, but the WS Heavy Tactile also has high-pitched and resonant characteristics, making it a bit more varied in sound profile depending on your preferences.
In terms of feel, the HMX Swift switch is known for its easy-to-press and feathery qualities, offering a gentle resistance and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The smooth and buttery sensation gives it a creamy feel, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch provides a more pronounced feedback with a sharp and snappy tactile bump, giving it an invigorating and lively feel. With a bouncy sensation, users can expect a spring-like feedback and rebound when pressing the keys.
In conclusion, while both the HMX Swift linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch offer unique sound and feel qualities, they cater to different preferences. The Swift provides a quieter and smoother typing experience with a lighter actuation force, ideal for those seeking a more subdued sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a more engaging and tactile typing experience with a stronger bump and sharp feedback, suitable for users looking for a more immersive and lively feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the HMX Swift linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smoother, deeper sound profile, the HMX Swift may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force with a profound tactile experience, immersive resistance, and a captivating "thocky" sound, the WS Heavy Tactile switch would be a great option. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to your personal typing preferences and the typing experience you desire.
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