Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile and the HMX Xinhai are two options that offer unique characteristics. The WS Light Tactile is known for its smoothness, snappy tactile bump, and neutral sound signature, making it a great choice for those who prefer a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Xinhai stands out with its PA12 top housing for softer acoustics and POM stem for a crisp, higher-pitched sound, catering to those who enjoy a linear switch with a distinct sound profile. 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
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
15.4mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the WS Light Tactile and the HMX Xinhai use polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, which enhances clarity and resonance in the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the overall design. The similarities in the top housing material suggest that users can expect comparable sound profiles from both switches.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the WS Light Tactile and the HMX Xinhai utilize nylon, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a more rounded and less sharp sound. This material choice impacts the overall typing experience, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches. The shared use of nylon in the bottom housing suggests that users can anticipate a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel between the two switches.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the WS Light Tactile and the HMX Xinhai differ, each material brings unique qualities to the overall sound and feel of the switches. The split between the bottom and top housing means that the bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. This distinction highlights how the choice of housing materials can impact various aspects of the typing experience, demonstrating the importance of considering both the top and bottom housing materials in switch design.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch reveals some interesting differences. The WS Light Tactile has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Xinhai, which has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. Both switches are relatively light compared to others on the market, making them ideal for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. The WS Light Tactile offers a slightly firmer bottom out force, providing a bit more resistance when typing, while the Xinhai allows for a smoother keystroke with its lighter bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, we see that the WS Light Tactile has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Xinhai has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the WS Light Tactile has a longer travel distance compared to the Xinhai. The 0.6 mm difference may not seem like much, but it can actually make a noticeable difference in how the switch feels when typing or gaming. The WS Light Tactile may provide a more pronounced key press with its longer travel distance, while the Xinhai may offer a quicker response with its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and what feels more comfortable and responsive to the individual user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Wuque Studio WS Light 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 WS Light Tactile switch offers a neutral profile that is versatile and suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch provides a clacky sound that is sharp, crisp, and percussive, adding a unique auditory experience to typing. Ultimately, both switches have distinct sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard.
Moving on to the feel, the WS Light Tactile switch is characterized by its stepped design, offering a two-stage tactile sensation that provides a balance between feedback and smooth keystrokes. Additionally, it is easy-to-press, requiring minimal force and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Xinhai switch has a bouncy feel that provides a spring-like feedback sensation, along with a creamy typing experience that is smooth and buttery, enhancing the overall typing comfort and ease. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback and actuation force, catering to different preferences in typing feel.
In conclusion, the WS Light Tactile switch and the Xinhai switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel, providing users with a variety of options to suit their personal preferences and typing style. Whether you prefer a neutral sound profile with a stepped and easy-to-press feel, or a clacky sound with a bouncy and creamy sensation, both switches offer a premium typing experience that can elevate your overall typing efficiency and enjoyment. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile and the HMX Xinhai switches, consider your preference for bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, the WS Light Tactile with 50 grams might be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with 45 grams of bottom out force and enjoy a clacky sound profile, the Xinhai switch might be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and whether you prefer a neutral sound with a smooth tactile bump or a crisper, more percussive sound. Consider also the feel you enjoy, whether it's a stepped and easy-to-press switch like the WS Light Tactile or a bouncy and creamy switch like the Xinhai. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and enhances your overall typing experience.
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