HMX Twilight vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi
An in-depth look at the HMX Twilight and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves comparing their options to ensure they get the best experience for their typing and gaming needs. The HMX Twilight, a linear switch known for its extended 3.85mm travel distance, provides a slightly quieter sound while preserving the signature clacky characteristics unique to HMX switches. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi combines innovation and aesthetics, featuring a light column for enhanced RGB visuals and a unique UPE stem that delivers an airy smoothness along with a muted sound profile thanks to its all-POM housings. While the Twilight is ideal for those who appreciate a tactile experience with a bit of noise, the Morandi's creamy and subdued characteristics cater to users who prioritize a smooth and visually pleasing setup. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.85 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Twilight and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches, it becomes apparent that each utilizes a different type of plastic for its construction, which ultimately impacts the acoustic profile and tactile feedback during use. The Twilight features a nylon top and bottom housing, which is a classic choice known for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer and more absorbent nature contributes to a rounder and duller auditory experience, making it ideal for users who favor a more subdued sound when typing. This uniform material choice for both the top and bottom hones a consistent sound and feel throughout the typing experience.
In contrast, the WS Morandi employs POM (Polyoxymethylene) for both the top and bottom housings. While POM is also known for its durability, it produces a distinctly unique sound profile that leans towards a deeper yet relatively muted character. This material choice suggests a different tactile experience, since POM, being a harder plastic compared to nylon, may result in a sharper acoustic presence in some respects. However, the unique acoustic signature still resonates well with users who appreciate a specific type of sound that is distinct from the nylon used in the Twilight.
Despite the differences in the materials utilized, the fundamental impact of these housings on the overall typing experience remains significant. With the Twilight's nylon housings, users benefit from a more consistent acoustic experience, while the WS Morandi's POM housings offer a pronounced yet unique sound. Both switches will produce a deeper sound profile, albeit through different means, allowing users to achieve a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the differences in material lead to distinct auditory and tactile qualities, yet both switches can serve to cater to those who resonate with deeper sound profiles within their mechanical keyboard experience.
Weight
The HMX Twilight linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch showcase notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to diverse user preferences. The Twilight has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Morandi’s 50 grams, making it more suitable for extensive typing sessions or gaming marathons, as it reduces finger fatigue. Additionally, the Twilight's bottom out force is 50 grams, which is also lighter than the Morandi's 60 grams. This means that not only does the Twilight provide a softer touch at the actuation point, but it also feels less forceful when fully pressed down. Conversely, the WS Morandi, with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, offers a more substantial and tactile feel, appealing to users who prefer a stronger push. Overall, those seeking a lighter and less fatiguing typing experience would gravitate towards the HMX Twilight, while those who enjoy a firmer typing sensation might prefer the WS Morandi.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Twilight linear switch is 3.85 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch measures 3.5 mm. In this comparison, the Twilight switch features a longer travel distance, offering a more pronounced depth with each keystroke, making it potentially better suited for users who appreciate a more robust typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Morandi's shorter travel distance is likely to appeal to gamers or those seeking quicker response times, as the 3.5 mm travel allows for faster actuation. Overall, if you prefer a springier, deeper feedback while typing or gaming, the HMX Twilight is the better choice. Conversely, if you lean towards speed and abrupt feedback without much travel, the WS Morandi would be the more suitable option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Twilight has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Twilight for $3.29.
The Wuque Studio WS Morandi has an MSRP of $4.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Morandi for $3.90.
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
The sound profile of the HMX Twilight linear switch is characterized by its slightly quieter operation, attributed to the extended 3.85mm travel distance, which allows for a more muted auditory experience without sacrificing the clacky essence typical of HMX switches. This means that while it retains some of the engaging acoustics favored by enthusiasts, it does so in a way that is less intrusive than some louder alternatives. On the other hand, the WS Morandi linear switch offers a distinctive low-pitched sound that is both subdued and thocky, creating a deep, rich tone when pressed. The combination of the all-POM housing contributes to the muted sound profile of the Morandi, providing a different auditory experience that leans towards a bass-heavy and mellow tone, appealing to those who prefer a less resonant keystroke.
When it comes to the feel of each switch, the Twilight’s qualities are not explicitly defined in the provided information, leaving its tactile feedback and actuation feel somewhat ambiguous. In contrast, the WS Morandi shines with descriptors such as buttery, creamy, and silky, which indicate a smoothly flowing keystroke experience that feels effortless and fluid. This implies that the Morandi will provide a highly enjoyable tactile engagement with minimal resistance, likely making it a preferable choice for users who prioritize typing comfort and fluidity.
In conclusion, both the HMX Twilight and WS Morandi linear switches cater to different auditory and tactile preferences. The Twilight offers a quieter sound with a classic clacky character, while the Morandi focuses on a low-pitched, thocky sound with subdued qualities. When it comes to feel, the Twilight’s characteristics remain unknown, whereas the Morandi provides a notably smooth and enjoyable typing experience. If you're looking for a combination of sound and feel, it’s essential to consider how these switches align with your personal preferences; however, the appealing auditory essence and tactile feedback of the Morandi could make it a more inviting option versus the less defined experience of the Twilight.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Twilight linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch will ultimately depend on your typing preferences and the environment in which you plan to use them. If you favor a lighter touch for quick typing and value a slightly quieter experience, the Twilight, with its 50-gram actuation force and extended travel distance, may be your best bet. It's designed for those who appreciate a clackier sound without excessive noise, making it ideal for a shared workspace or casual gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a sturdier feel with a medium resistance, the WS Morandi offers a solid 60 grams of bottom-out force. Its muted sound profile and smooth, buttery keystroke experience make it suitable for those who enjoy a rich, thocky sound while typing, as well as an aesthetic touch with enhanced RGB visuals due to its innovative design. Ultimately, consider not just the specs but also how each switch resonates with your typing style and environment to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard experience.
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