HMX Vintage Citrus vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the HMX Vintage Citrus 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 contrasting characteristics of the HMX Vintage Citrus and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile make both appealing options, catering to different user needs. The HMX Vintage Citrus, engineered for gamers, features a notably low actuation force of just 1mm, which facilitates rapid key presses and enhances gameplay with its bright, clacky sound profile and smooth keystroke experience. This switch is characterized as 'Clacky', 'Snappy', and 'Invigorating', making it an excellent choice for those who thrive on speed and feedback during intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch from Wuque Studio promotes a quieter workspace with its medium tactility and unique noise-dampening technology, which eliminates loud keystrokes without sacrificing the satisfying tactile response. Categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Neutral', and 'Mild', this switch is ideal for professionals or anyone in an office setting who prefers a more subdued yet responsive typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
48g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
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 single-staged spring
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the HMX Vintage Citrus and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile are both composed of nylon for their top and bottom housings. This shared material choice contributes significantly to a similar sound profile when typing on both switches. The nylon used in both models offers a classic touch; being a relatively softer plastic, it effectively absorbs sound compared to harder alternatives. This absorption leads to a deeper and fuller auditory experience, characterized by a duller, rounder sound, which is preferred by many typists for its pleasant quality. Users of either switch can therefore expect a consistent auditory feedback, accentuated by the nylon's inherent properties.
Despite the similarity in materials, the design considerations for the switches could lead to differences in tactile feedback and overall performance. The construction and design specifics—like spring tension and actuation points—can influence how the housing materials interact with users, affecting feel and sound dynamics differently. For instance, while both the Vintage Citrus and WS Silent Tactile might provide a rich sound due to their nylon composition, the unique engineering of each switch could create different experiences when pressing down and releasing a key. Therefore, although the materials are identical, the overall typing experience could vary based on the intricacies of each switch's design.
In terms of sound characteristics, both the HMX Vintage Citrus and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile are expected to deliver a pleasurable typing experience due to their nylon housings. The sound profile resulting from each switch's design could still feel distinct; however, the fundamental audio quality remains aligned. Since both switches rely on the same material properties of nylon, the characteristics of their sound signature—dampened, fuller, and rounder—will be similar. Ultimately, users can anticipate a consistent auditory experience from both models, yet they might find preferences emerging based on tactile feedback or any nuanced differences in their design and construction.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Vintage Citrus has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light, which can benefit users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile switch has an unspecified actuation force but a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy range. This heavier bottom out force suggests a more significant tactile experience, appealing to those who enjoy a substantial push feel when typing. Consequently, the Vintage Citrus is the lighter option overall, making it more suited for comfort in longer usage, while the WS Silent Tactile offers a heavier experience, catering to those who prefer a more forceful keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch, a notable difference emerges. The Vintage Citrus features a travel distance of 3 mm, while the WS Silent Tactile has a longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Vintage Citrus the shorter option, which might appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, as it allows for more rapid key actuation. Conversely, the WS Silent Tactile switch, with its deeper travel, may provide a more substantial tactile feedback experience for users who prefer a pronounced depth when typing. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness or a more robust feel in your keystrokes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Vintage Citrus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vintage Citrus for $2.79.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch delivers a bright and clacky profile, providing a distinct and engaging auditory feedback that many gamers crave. This sharp sound can create an energizing typing experience, but it might not be suitable for quieter environments. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch is designed for discretion, producing a neutral sound that excels in silent operation. The absence of clackiness makes this switch an ideal choice for office settings or shared spaces, where maintaining a peaceful atmosphere is important. While the Vintage Citrus's lively sound appeals to those who appreciate auditory cues, the WS Silent Tactile caters to users needing a quieter typing experience without sacrificing response quality.
In terms of feel, the Vintage Citrus switch is snappy and invigorating, providing a highly responsive typing experience that makes it ideal for fast-paced gaming scenarios. The longer or dual-staged springs contribute to this lively sensation, ensuring that users can register every keystroke with precision. Conversely, the WS Silent Tactile offers a more nuanced tactile experience. It combines a medium tactility with snappy feedback, striking a balance that creates an engaging typing experience without overwhelming the user. This switch is accented, which allows for tactile feedback that is noticeable but not excessive, and the mild aspects of its design make it approachable for all types of users, whether they're beginners or seasoned typists.
In summary, the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch is tailored for gamers who prioritize fast actuation and an engaging sound profile, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch provides a quieter, more versatile option suitable for mixed environments. Both switches offer invigorating feedback that enhances the typing experience, but they cater to different preferences in sound and feel. If you’re looking for an energetic, auditory experience, the Vintage Citrus is the way to go, whereas if you need a more subdued and professional setting, the WS Silent Tactile will serve you well. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your environment and intended use, but both switches guarantee a level of satisfaction that can elevate your typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch, your specific needs and preferences will heavily dictate your choice. If you are a gamer or someone who enjoys fast-paced interactions, the Vintage Citrus switch is your best option; its low actuation force and clacky, responsive feel will cater to your desire for rapid inputs and an engaging auditory experience. Conversely, if you find yourself typing a lot in a quiet office setting or sharing your workspace with others, the WS Silent Tactile switch would be more suitable. Its medium-heavy actuation force provides a pleasant tactile feedback without the disruptive noise often associated with traditional switches, allowing you to enjoy a crisp typing experience while maintaining a tranquil environment. Ultimately, your decision boils down to the environments you frequent and the types of tasks you perform—whether you crave speed and sound or silence and subtlety will guide you toward the ideal switch.
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