HMX Swift vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the HMX Swift and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Swift linear switch to the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch, there are distinct differences that can help you choose the best option for your mechanical keyboard. The HMX Swift is known for its deeper sound profile and silky smoothness, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. With a delicate 42g actuation force, the Swift switch is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Easy-to-press', 'Feathery', 'Bouncy', and 'Creamy'. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch from Wuque Studio is designed to reduce switch noise without the use of silicone dampeners, offering a unique typing experience that blends tranquility with precision. Categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Muted', and 'Subdued', these switches are perfect for those looking for a quiet and responsive 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
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 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
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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Swift and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear, both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. Nylon is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound overall when typing on switches made with nylon. Therefore, both the Swift and the WS Silent Linear are likely to offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality and feel due to their shared use of nylon housing materials.
While the nylon housing materials used in both the Swift and the WS Silent Linear switches provide similar sound profiles, the slight variations in the design and construction of the switches may affect the overall typing experience. The bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing impacts the sound when the key is released. Therefore, any differences in the design or construction of the top and bottom housings between the Swift and the WS Silent Linear may lead to nuanced variations in the typing feel and sound produced by each switch.
Overall, the housing materials of the HMX Swift and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches share similarities in their use of nylon, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. While both switches are likely to provide a similar typing experience due to their shared housing materials, the design and construction of the top and bottom housings may lead to subtle differences in the sound and feel of each switch. Ultimately, enthusiasts may appreciate the nuances in typing experience that come from the slight variations in the housing materials and design of these two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Swift linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, it is evident that the Swift is lighter in terms of actuation force at 42 grams compared to the WS Silent Linear's unknown force. However, the bottom out force of the WS Silent Linear is heavier at 63.5 grams compared to the Swift's 50 grams. This means that the Swift will provide a lighter typing experience, while the WS Silent Linear will offer a more substantial and firmer feel. Depending on personal preference, some may prefer the Swift for a longer typing duration, while others may opt for the WS Silent Linear for a heavier actuation feel. Either way, both switches offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences.
Travel distance
The HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, which is slightly longer than the travel distance of 3.5 mm for the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. The difference of 0.4 mm between the two switches may not be significant to some users, but for those who prefer a slightly deeper press, the Swift switch may be more appealing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and the level of responsiveness desired. Both switches offer similar results in terms of a shorter travel distance, but with a slightly different feel when typing or gaming.
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 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 Swift linear switch is known for its deeper sound profile with a silky smoothness and a delicate 42g actuation force, providing a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch stands out for its reduced noise level due to ingeniously designed stem railings with discreet cutouts, offering a tranquil typing experience devoid of the usual cushioned sensation. The Swift switch is best described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound, while the WS Silent Linear switch is more neutral and muted, providing a softer and quieter typing sound. Ultimately, the choice of sound profile will depend on personal preference and the environment in which the keyboard will be used.
In terms of feel, the HMX Swift linear switch is revered for its easy-to-press and feathery qualities, reducing finger fatigue and enhancing the overall typing experience. It offers a light and responsive typing feel with a low-impact sensation. Conversely, the WS Silent Linear switch is described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences in terms of tactile feedback and actuation force. It ultimately comes down to the individual's typing style and comfort preferences when choosing between these two switches.
In conclusion, the HMX Swift linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch offer different sound and feel profiles that cater to a variety of typing preferences. While the Swift switch is known for its deeper sound profile and easy-to-press feel, the WS Silent Linear switch focuses on reducing noise levels and providing a more mild typing experience. Both switches have their own unique strengths and characteristics, and the choice between them will depend on the user's preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Regardless of the choice made, both switches offer quality performance and a satisfying typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Swift linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch, consider the following factors. If you are looking for a keyboard switch with a light bottom out force, a deep sound profile, and a silky smooth feel, the HMX Swift linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a quieter typing experience with reduced switch noise, and a mild and approachable typing feel, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your specific typing preferences and requirements.
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