HMX Twilight vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the HMX Twilight and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, personal preference plays a significant role, and two noteworthy options are the HMX Twilight and the Wuque Studio WS POM+. Both are linear switches designed to enhance the typing experience, but they offer unique characteristics that cater to different needs. The HMX Twilight is celebrated for its extended travel distance of 3.85mm, resulting in a quieter sound profile while still preserving the signature clacky feel associated with HMX switches, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who value a tactile engagement without too much noise. In contrast, the WS POM+ features a full POM construction, delivering a deep, satisfying "thock" sound and a buttery-smooth keystroke that can elevate the typing experience for those who prioritize a luxurious feel and acoustic feedback. While both switches excel in providing a linear experience, their distinct sound signatures and feel might sway users in different directions. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.85 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Twilight and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ showcase distinct yet complementary housing materials that influence their overall sound profiles. The Twilight utilizes a nylon material for both its top and bottom housings, renowned for its softer nature, which absorbs sound effectively. This results in a deeper and fuller sound signature that many typists appreciate for its muted quality. Nylon's inherent properties contribute to a typing experience characterized by a rounder acoustic output, making it a classic choice in the world of mechanical switches. In contrast, the WS POM+ employs POM (Polyoxymethylene) for its top and bottom housings, a plastic known for its durable and stable characteristics. While POM also produces a unique sound profile that is deeper and moderately muted, it does so with a slightly different texture compared to nylon.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Twilight and the WS POM+ sacrifice nuances in their sound profiles to the respective qualities of their materials. The nylon bottom housing of the Twilight preserves the deep, full characteristics of the sound while contributing to a dampened impact when bottoming out. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the WS POM+ provides a pleasingly deep sound, albeit with a different tactile feel. Both materials enhance the typing experience but in ways that reflect their unique properties, which users might find appealing if they are inclined toward either a softer or a slightly more rigid typing response.
Ultimately, users may find that despite the differences in basic materials—nylon for the Twilight and POM for the WS POM+—the switches can yield similar acoustic experiences rooted in their deeper sound profiles. The characteristics of each housing material affect the overall sound experience, whether users are bottoming out the key or releasing it. The disparate materials influence the typing experience but do not detract from the enjoyment of a deeper, more muted sound signature, confirming that while the properties of each are different, both switches offer end-users a gratifying auditory and tactile experience.
Weight
The HMX Twilight linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch both provide distinct typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces. The Twilight switch features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for extended typing sessions where comfort and reduced fatigue are desired. In contrast, the WS POM+ has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, offering a more substantial feel that some users might prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Although both switches share a linear design, their weight differences—where the Twilight is the lighter option and the WS POM+ is medium-light—suggest that users who favor a more effortless key press will gravitate towards the Twilight, while those seeking a bit more resistance will likely prefer the WS POM+.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Twilight linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, there is a notable difference. The Twilight features a travel distance of 3.85 mm, while the WS POM+ has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the HMX Twilight offers a more substantial depth, which some users may find more satisfying, especially if they prefer a less abrupt feel when pressing down on keys. On the other hand, the WS POM+'s shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times and a more responsive typing experience. Thus, for those who favor a deeper keystroke, the HMX Twilight would be the preferable choice, while the Wuque Studio WS POM+ is ideal for those who prioritize speed and efficiency in their keystrokes.
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 POM+ comes in at $3.90 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 Twilight linear switch is characterized by a quieter output due to its extended 3.85mm travel distance, which contributes to its unique sound profile while still retaining some of the classic clacky traits associated with HMX switches. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ offers a deep, satisfying "thock" sound that enhances its overall auditory appeal, providing a more resonant feedback with each keystroke. The sound produced by switches can be further influenced by the keyboard construction and the type of keycaps used, but generally, users can expect the Twilight to be more subdued compared to the rich thock of the WS POM+.
Regarding feel, the HMX Twilight provides a smooth linear experience, highlighted by the extended travel that allows for a more gradual keystroke without abrupt interruptions. This can enhance the overall typing rhythm and provide a gentle feedback sensation. In contrast, the WS POM+ is acclaimed for its buttery-smooth keystroke, creating a sense of effortless typing that many users find appealing. While both switches provide linear feedback, the distinct characteristics of each switch—namely, the unique travel distance of the Twilight and the silky performance of the WS POM+—contribute to different tactile experiences.
In conclusion, both the HMX Twilight and the WS POM+ linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you appreciate a quieter switch with clacky undertones and an extended travel distance, the Twilight may suit you well. Conversely, if you seek a deeper sound and an exceptionally smooth typing experience, the WS POM+ could be your ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision will hinge on whether you prioritize sound or feel, as both options deliver satisfying results in their respective domains.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Twilight linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for typing experience and acoustic feedback. If you prefer a lighter switch with a longer travel distance, the HMX Twilight might be your best bet. Its unique design not only leads to an easier actuation with a 50-gram bottom-out force but also allows for a quieter keystroke while still retaining a subtle clackiness that can enhance your typing experience. On the other hand, if you value a medium-light switch with a deeper and more satisfying thock sound, the WS POM+ is worth considering. With a 55-gram bottom-out force, it provides a bit more resistance which some typists may find more comfortable for longer typing sessions, along with its buttery-smooth keystrokes that elevate the overall feel. Ultimately, your choice should consider how these factors resonate with your typing style—whether you want the soft, quiet feedback of the Twilight or the rich sound and solid feel of the WS POM+.
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