Wuque Studio WS Morandi vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Wuque Studio WS Morandi and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, two prominent options often come to mind: the Wuque Studio WS Morandi and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), both linear switches that cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The WS Morandi is celebrated for its innovative design and aesthetic appeal, featuring a light column that enhances RGB visuals. With its unique UPE stem, it delivers an airy smoothness and a subdued sound profile thanks to its all-POM housings, making it perfect for users who favor a buttery, silky feel with a touch of thockiness. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) is known for its robust construction, using a PA12 top housing that contributes to a softer sound profile. Its POM stem provides a crisp, higher-pitched resonance, appealing to those who appreciate more pronounced acoustics and a heavier typing experience. Each switch presents distinct advantages, with the WS Morandi leaning towards a refined, quieter touch, while the Xinhai (Heavy) offers a more dynamic response with its unique acoustic properties. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect 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
3.50 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
The Wuque Studio WS Morandi and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) both utilize materials in their housing that distinctly influence the auditory and tactile characteristics of their switches. The WS Morandi features a POM (Polyoxymethylene) housing for both its top and bottom sections. This material is known for generating a sound profile that leans towards the deeper and more muted spectrum, creating a unique auditory experience for users. Similarly, the Xinhai (Heavy) is equipped with nylon housing, which, like POM, is a softer plastic that absorbs sound effectively. As a result, switches with nylon housings also produce a deeper and fuller sound, albeit with a different texture compared to the POM material.
While both housing materials aim to deliver a rich and muted sound profile, their properties create nuances in the overall performance. The POM construction of the WS Morandi is recognized for its ability to provide a unique sound that users find pleasing and satisfying, akin to the classic qualities of nylon used in the HMX Xinhai. However, the fundamental difference lies in the tactile feedback and sound absorption characteristics between these two materials. The WS Morandi's POM may yield a slightly more controlled sound profile, while the nylon of the Xinhai could potentially convey a broader resonance due to its softer nature. Each creates a satisfying typing experience, yet with subtle auditory differences that enthusiasts might discern.
In terms of performance, both switch types deliver an overall experience that produces muted sound profiles, albeit through differing materials. The impact of the bottom housing, where the switch's characteristics largely dwell, means that despite the variation in housing materials, both designs can achieve similar sound dampening effects and deep auditory responses. Users can expect a satisfying feel and sound when bottoming out the switches on the WS Morandi and Xinhai, with the POM offering a distinctive sound and the nylon providing a fuller resonance upon release. Consequently, both switches appeal to typists and gamers seeking a deeper sound experience, offering unique yet comparable auditory properties that enhance their overall typing journey.
Weight
When comparing the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, we observe that both have medium force characteristics, but they differ slightly in their actuation and bottom out forces. The WS Morandi features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Xinhai (Heavy) has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams. This means that the WS Morandi is the lighter of the two switches, making it potentially more comfortable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons, as users may experience less fatigue. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), with its greater actuation and bottom out forces, may provide a more substantial tactile feel, appealing to those who prefer a firmer push and a more pronounced typing experience. Overall, while both switches yield medium force results, the WS Morandi encourages lighter usage, while the Xinhai (Heavy) caters to users seeking a heavier resistance.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch measures 3.5 mm, whereas the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This indicates that the WS Morandi offers a greater depth in key presses compared to the Xinhai, making it ideal for users who appreciate a more substantial tactile feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, the Xinhai, with its shorter travel distance, may provide a snappier response, appealing to gamers who prefer quicker actuation for faster gameplay. Overall, if you opt for the longer WS Morandi, you may enjoy a more pronounced key feel, while the Xinhai's shorter travel could cater to those who favor rapid responses in their typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Wuque Studio WS Morandi has an MSRP of $4.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Morandi for $3.90.
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.
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 Morandi linear switches present a unique auditory profile characterized by low-pitched, subdued tones that produce a thocky sound when pressed. This results in a satisfying acoustic experience that is deep and rich, without being overly noisy. The use of all-POM housings contributes to this muted sound profile, making the switch ideal for users who prefer a less intrusive auditory environment while typing. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch does not have specific sound characteristics documented, leaving its acoustic qualities somewhat of an unknown. However, the sound output of any switch can significantly vary depending on the keyboard construction and keycap choice.
In terms of feel, the WS Morandi linear switch excels with its buttery, creamy, and silky keystroke experience. The UPE stem enhances this smoothness, providing a seamless typing sensation that allows fingers to glide effortlessly over the keys. This luxurious feel adds to the overall typing pleasure, making it ideal for lengthy typing sessions. On the other hand, details about the feel of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches are not specified, which means any physical characteristics or tactile feedback remain uncharted territory.
In conclusion, while the WS Morandi linear switch offers a well-defined sound profile and a smooth, luxurious typing feel, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches provide a level of mystery with their intended characteristics still unknown. For newcomers looking to choose between these options, the WS Morandi clearly stands out with its balanced sound and tactile smoothness, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) invites curiosity that may lead to discovery once more information becomes available. Regardless, the overall experience of both switches will be influenced by the keyboard setup and personal preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, consider your personal preferences for sound and feel as well as the typing experience you desire. If you prioritize a smoother, more airy typing experience with a subtler sound profile, the WS Morandi is an excellent choice. Its low-pitched, thocky sound combined with its buttery, silky feel makes it ideal for those who enjoy a gentle yet satisfying keystroke, especially when enhanced with RGB lighting. On the other hand, if you appreciate a bit more resistance and a slightly heavier keystroke, the Xinhai (Heavy) may suit you better. This switch provides a unique resonance with its softer acoustics that beautifully balance subtlety and sophistication. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you lean towards a lighter touch with rich, thocky sounds or a firm, crisp feedback that resonates with a more pronounced acoustic character. Each switch caters to varied typing styles and preferences, so consider trying both if you can to find the perfect fit for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Mentioned in this article
