Wuque Studio WS Jade vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Wuque Studio WS Jade and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Wuque Studio WS Jade and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) stand out as two compelling options, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The WS Jade is celebrated for its distinctive metallic insert in the stem base, which not only amplifies its bright and resonant sound profile but also delivers a smooth and creamy typing experience with a satisfying bottom-out. It's particularly appealing for those who enjoy a "clacky" and "marbly" auditory feedback, complemented by a striking light diffuser for vibrant RGB displays. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) boasts a heavier actuation force, crafted from a PA12 top housing which softens acoustics, combined with a POM stem that provides a crisp, high-pitched resonance. This makes it an excellent choice for users who appreciate subtle sophistication with precise performance in their keystrokes. 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
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Wuque Studio WS Jade and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), both switches feature a design that prioritizes sound quality. The WS Jade utilizes POM (Polyoxymethylene) for both its top and bottom housings, renowned for producing a sound profile that is deep and relatively muted. This choice of material imbues the switch with a pleasing acoustic character, specifically contributing to a unique auditory experience. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) opts for nylon for its top and bottom housings. Nylon is celebrated as a classic in switch construction due to its softer nature, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. This characteristic allows it to produce a deeper and fuller sound, while also ensuring that the resulting experience is rounder and more cushioned.
While both switches aim for a similar auditory experience, the materials they employ create nuances that differentiate their performances. The POM housings of the WS Jade provide a more muted sound, enhancing the pleasure of key presses with a unique texture. In contrast, the nylon of the Xinhai (Heavy) leads to a fuller resonance, which may appeal to users seeking a more robust acoustic signature. This difference in material composition suggests that while they can achieve similar overall sound qualities, the experience through typing dynamics can vary based on individual preferences for sound depth and feedback.
Both switches exhibit interesting results stemming from their material choices. For instance, the muted profile of the WS Jade due to its POM construction can be perceived as a softer sound experience, while the nylon of the Xinhai (Heavy) produces a deeper resonance. Despite the differences in housing materials, both achieve a satisfying typing feel; the POM's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel aligns nicely with nylon's capacity to absorb sound and provide a rounder release. Ultimately, users of either switch will enjoy pleasant auditory feedback, but the character of that sound will differ slightly based on the specific housing materials employed.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, distinct differences emerge. The WS Jade features an actuation force of 50 grams, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams. This indicates that the WS Jade is the lighter option, which may appeal to users who prefer a more effortless typing experience for extended periods, such as during long work sessions or gaming marathons. In terms of bottom out force, the WS Jade has a value of 60 grams, while the Xinhai (Heavy) bottoms out at 62.5 grams. This again positions the WS Jade as the overall lighter switch. While both switches have medium actuation and bottom out forces that are relatively close in range, the subtle differences favor those looking for a lighter touch and a softer landing when typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, the WS Jade features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Xinhai (Heavy) measures at 3.4 mm. This makes the WS Jade the longer option, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial key press for a satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy), with its shorter travel distance, offers a quicker response time, appealing to gamers or those who favor rapid keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences: a longer travel distance may provide a more deliberate and hearty depth, while the shorter travel distance can enhance responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Xinhai (Heavy) 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 (Heavy) for $3.19.
The Wuque Studio WS Jade comes in at $4.30 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 WS Jade switch is highly regarded for its distinct acoustic properties. The inclusion of a metallic insert in the stem base gives it a clacky profile, resulting in a sharp, snappy sound that is both bright and resonant. Additionally, the WS Jade produces a marbly quality, akin to the musicality of two billiard balls colliding, creating a clean and immersive auditory experience. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch does not have a defined sound profile available, which leaves an unknown variable for those looking to make auditory comparisons. However, it’s important to note that the sound of both switches can significantly vary based on the keyboard housing and keycap materials used alongside them.
In terms of feel, the WS Jade switch excels with descriptors like silky and creamy that characterize its smooth typing experience. The creamy texture makes the act of typing feel effortlessly fluid, as if your fingers glide over the keys with minimal resistance. This luxurious sensation is further enhanced by the unique materials used in its construction, likely contributing to a pleasant tactile feedback as each key is pressed. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) lacks a detailed description of its feel, which means potential users will have to rely on personal testing to gauge how it compares to the creamy experience offered by the WS Jade.
In conclusion, while the WS Jade switch clearly stands out with its bright, resonant sound and smooth, creamy feel, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch remains somewhat of an enigma without specified qualities in sound and feel. If you're looking for a switch with an engaging auditory feedback and a buttery typing experience, the WS Jade would be your go-to choice. However, if you're intrigued by the heavier variant of Xinhai switches, experimentation will be essential to uncover its potential, as the sound and tactile experience may present different attributes that appeal to varying typing preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch largely hinges on your preferences for sound and feel in your typing experience. If you appreciate a brighter auditory profile with a uniquely clacky and resonant sound, the WS Jade is an excellent option, offering a creamy and silky typing feel enriched by its metallic insert that enhances the overall acoustics. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy an engaging auditory experience and want to showcase vibrant RGB lighting through its light diffuser. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch that emphasizes subtlety and sophistication, the Xinhai (Heavy) would suit you well. Its softer acoustics with a crisp resonance and medium-force bottoming out can elevate your typing performance while maintaining a refined and less intrusive sound. Ultimately, both choices provide a satisfying linear switch experience, but they cater to different tastes—opt for the WS Jade if you want a more dynamic and lively engagement, and choose the Xinhai (Heavy) for a balanced, precise typing experience.
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