HMX Twilight vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the HMX Twilight and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often narrows down to personal preferences and specific use cases. The HMX Twilight linear switch is designed for those who enjoy a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke, featuring an extended travel distance of 3.85mm that offers a slightly quieter typing experience while still retaining the signature clacky sound that HMX switches are known for. This makes it a great option for gamers and typists who prefer a reflexive and fluid response without the added noise. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch caters to those seeking a quieter yet tactile typing experience, ideal for office environments or shared spaces. With its medium tactility and innovative design that eliminates the need for silicone dampeners, this switch provides a unique blend of silence and responsive feedback. While the HMX Twilight exudes a lively characteristic, the WS Silent Tactile prioritizes discretion without sacrificing the satisfaction of tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that aligns with your typing style and environment.
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
3.85 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
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Twilight and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile both feature nylon as their primary housing material, with both the top and bottom housing composed of this classic plastic. Nylon is well-regarded for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, primarily due to its softer nature compared to harder plastics. In both switches, the use of nylon contributes to a sound that is duller and rounder, creating a more muted auditory experience when typing. Given that both the Twilight and WS Silent Tactile utilize the same material, users can expect similar acoustic characteristics, which can enhance the overall typing experience.
In terms of tactile feedback, the effects of the nylon housing can vary based on the specific design and engineering choices of each switch. While both switches maximize the benefits of nylon in producing a cohesive sound profile, there may be distinctions in the tactile response. For instance, while the nylon construction may soften the impact feedback of bottoming out, each switch might incorporate different actuation mechanisms that affect the feel of the keystroke. As such, even though the materials are identical, the experience could differ based on factors like switch design or additional integrated components, leading to nuanced differences in typing sensation.
Moreover, the interplay between the top and bottom housings plays a significant role in how each switch feels and sounds during use. In the case of both the HMX Twilight and WS Silent Tactile, the nylon material ensures a consistent auditory profile. However, the distribution of characteristics may vary when pressed, with the bottom housing being more instrumental in determining the bottom-out feel and sound, while the top housing influences the sound upon release. This leads to a typing experience that, while rooted in the same material foundation, can ultimately be shaped by the distinct attributes of each switch design, allowing enthusiasts to explore three-dimensional differences in performance despite the shared housing composition.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Twilight linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch, notable differences can be observed in their actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX Twilight features a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for extended use during work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is medium-heavy, but its actuation force is unspecified. This suggests that the tactile feedback might require a stronger push than the Twilight, catering to those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience. Consequently, while the Twilight is the lighter option, the WS Silent Tactile's heavier bottom out force may provide a more pronounced feel for typists or gamers who desire that extra resistance. Therefore, users looking for a lighter feel should opt for the HMX Twilight, while those who prefer more weight and resistance in their keystrokes might lean towards the WS Silent Tactile.
Travel distance
The HMX Twilight linear switch features a travel distance of 3.85 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that if you're seeking a more traditional typing experience with a more substantial feel, the Twilight's longer travel distance may cater better to your preference for depth in key presses. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the WS Silent Tactile could appeal to gamers and users who prioritize rapid response times and prefer the swifter actuation that comes with it. In summary, the Twilight offers a more pronounced and deeper travel experience, while the WS Silent Tactile allows for quicker actuation, making it ideal for specific use cases depending on individual preferences.
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 Silent Tactile 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 Twilight linear switch produces a slightly quieter sound profile while still embracing the characteristic clacky nature of HMX switches. This makes it suitable for users who appreciate that lively feedback but may want to keep noise levels lower. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch is engineered to minimize sound significantly, thanks to its precision-crafted stem railings, making it ideal for office settings or shared environments. It delivers a muted, neutral sound that aligns well with various usage scenarios, offering a softer and quieter typing experience without sacrificing the essence of tactile feedback. While both switches deliver a pleasant auditory experience, the Twilight leans toward a more dynamic sound, whereas the WS Silent Tactile emphasizes tranquility.
Regarding feel, the HMX Twilight switch is notable for its smooth actuation and extended travel distance, which could be experienced as consistent yet lacking in distinctive tactile feedback. Conversely, the WS Silent Tactile excels with its medium tactility, providing a pronounced tactile sensation without being overwhelming. This switch strikes a balance between responsive and gentle feedback, creating an engaging typing experience that is invigorating yet mild. It's designed to cater to users who prefer a clear tactile bump but still want a manageable and enjoyable typing experience. The compliments of the WS Silent Tactile's tactility add a layer of dimensionality to the typing experience that enhances user satisfaction.
In conclusion, while both the HMX Twilight and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches present unique attributes catering to different preferences, they still provide enjoyable and effective typing sensations. The Twilight is more geared toward those who appreciate a lively sound and feel, perfectly integrating that quintessential mechanical character. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile appeals to individuals who prioritize a quieter experience without losing tactile responsiveness. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your personal typing style and environment, but both options promise a high-quality mechanical experience tailored to their respective strengths.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Twilight linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch, consider your specific typing environment and personal preferences. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and enjoy a smoother, quieter linear feel with a slightly longer travel distance, the HMX Twilight is an excellent choice. Its characteristics are well-suited for casual gaming and typing experiences where speed and fluidity are key. On the other hand, if you find yourself working in an office setting or prefer a more defined tactile feedback with superior noise reduction, the WS Silent Tactile is your best bet. Its medium-heavy actuation force, along with its muted sound profile and invigorating feel, ensures a satisfying typing experience while keeping the noise to a minimum. Ultimately, consider how each switch aligns with your typing style and environment; your comfort and productivity will greatly benefit from the right choice.
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