Wuque Studio WS Dash vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Wuque Studio WS Dash and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. The Wuque Studio WS Dash, a Hall Effect switch, is renowned for its bright and clacky sound signature, offering a silky smooth keystroke that provides both tactile satisfaction and auditory delight. Ideal for gamers and typists who appreciate a lively and dynamic typing experience, the WS Dash stands out for its refined characteristics, reminiscent of the beloved Magnetic Jade switches. Conversely, the HMX Xinhai switch offers a contrasting experience with its linear design, characterized by a unique PA12 top housing for softer acoustics and a POM stem that delivers a crisp, higher-pitched sound. This switch is perfect for those seeking a seamless typing experience with a subtle sophistication that enhances focus without the distraction of noisy feedback. Both switches cater to different preferences—whether you desire a vibrant, clacky sound or a smooth and refined one—but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Wuque Studio WS Dash and the HMX Xinhai, significant differences arise, particularly in the composition of their top housings. The WS Dash features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile characterized by clarity and resonance. This is largely due to polycarbonate's sturdiness, which amplifies sound more effectively than softer materials. In contrast, the Xinhai utilizes a nylon top housing, known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softness allows the nylon to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a sound that is both rounder and more subdued. Thus, while both switches provide unique auditory experiences, they diverge in tonal characteristics due to their top housing materials.
The bottom housings of both switches, however, utilize nylon, resulting in a consistency in sound profile attributes between them. Nylon is revered for its capability to absorb sound, contributing to a deeper, fuller experience when typing; this characteristic is consistent across both the WS Dash and the HMX Xinhai. Given that the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a switch is pressed, the common use of nylon ensures that users will experience similar deep tonal qualities from both switches in terms of the feel of each key press. Therefore, in regards to the bottom housing, enthusiasts can expect equivalent auditory feedback from both models.
Despite the differences in their top housings, the overall performance of the WS Dash and the HMX Xinhai can still appeal to various preferences in typing experiences. While the WS Dash's polycarbonate top contributes to that crisper, more resonant sound when releasing keys, the HMX Xinhai’s nylon top offers a more muted and richer sound, catering to those who prefer a more subdued auditory experience. Ultimately, the dichotomy in their design showcases the versatility of switch manufacturers to cater to diverse user preferences, ensuring that while the experience may not be identical, both switches can deliver satisfying results depending on one's sound preference.
Weight
When comparing the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The WS Dash features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams, complemented by a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a good choice for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Xinhai switch has a heavier actuation force of 37 grams, although it boasts a lower bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that while the Xinhai requires more force to initially trigger a keystroke, it offers a softer landing compared to the WS Dash. In terms of weight perception, the WS Dash is the lighter switch overall, catering to users who may favor longer typing sessions without fatigue, while the Xinhai, with its heavier actuation force, may appeal to those seeking a more substantial feel. Ultimately, while their actuation and bottom out forces differ, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on personal preference in the weight and feedback of the keys.
Travel distance
The Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the WS Dash offers a greater depth, which may provide a more satisfying tactile experience for those who appreciate a pronounced key press. On the other hand, the Xinhai, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal to gamers or users seeking quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation with less travel. While the difference in travel distances is minimal—just 0.1 mm—the preferences for each can vary significantly based on individual tastes. Ultimately, if you lean towards a more responsive and abrupt feel, the Xinhai is the better choice, whereas the WS Dash may cater to those who appreciate a deeper and more substantial key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Wuque Studio WS Dash has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Dash for $7.49.
The HMX Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai for $3.19.
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 WS Dash switch is characterized by its bright and clacky signature, creating an engaging auditory experience that enhances typing enjoyment. This sharp, percussive quality can easily draw your attention, providing quick auditory feedback with each keystroke that resonates well in a variety of environments. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai switch offers a sound that is more nuanced with a distinctively crisp and higher-pitched resonance thanks to its PA12 top housing and POM stem. The Xinhai is designed to deliver a softer acoustics profile, which although less clacky, still provides a satisfying auditory response, striking a balance between subtle refinement and sharp clarity. While both switches produce lively sounds, users looking for a more pronounced auditory experience may gravitate toward the WS Dash.
When it comes to feel, the WS Dash switch offers a silky smooth keystroke, allowing for effortless typing that can be very appealing to those who favor a seamless experience. In comparison, the HMX Xinhai switch displays a bouncy characteristic that brings a lively, spring-like feedback sensation that enhances the overall typing experience. Coupled with a creamy texture, the Xinhai provides a buttery smooth sensation, which can be exceptionally enjoyable, almost like gliding your fingers across the keyboard. In essence, while both switches guarantee high-quality feel, the WS Dash emphasizes smoothness, whereas the Xinhai combines both bounce and creaminess for lively feedback.
In conclusion, both the WS Dash and the HMX Xinhai switches offer unique strengths that cater to different preferences among typists. The WS Dash stands out for its engaging sound, making it ideal for those who treasure auditory feedback, while the Xinhai excels in providing a nuanced sound profile alongside a lively yet smooth keystroke experience. Whether you prioritize an auditory impact or a tactile sensation, each switch promises to deliver a solid performance, allowing users to find joy in their mechanical typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Wuque Studio WS Dash Hall Effect switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, your preferences and typing style play a crucial role. If you favor a medium-light actuation force with a crisp, clacky sound signature that delivers a lively and refined typing experience, the WS Dash is an excellent choice. Its unique design enhances the auditory feedback, making it particularly appealing for those who enjoy a more tactile and engaging typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer an even lighter touch with a bottom-out force of 45 grams, the Xinhai switch provides a bouncy and creamy sensation that’s ideal for long typing sessions, where comfort and smoothness are paramount. Its quieter acoustics appeal to users who seek a more subdued sound while still wanting the responsiveness of a high-quality switch. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by whether you value auditory feedback and a slightly stronger keystroke or prioritize a super smooth and plush typing feel with a light touch.
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