Wuque Studio WS Onion vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Wuque Studio WS Onion and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Wuque Studio WS Onion and the HMX Xinhai mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The WS Onion is praised for its buttery smooth keystroke feel and neutral sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Xinhai stands out with its bouncy and clacky feel, combined with a creamy sound profile that appeals to users looking for a more pronounced and satisfying typing experience. 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
N/A
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Partial box
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
WS CL635 Gold Plated Stainless Spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Wuque Studio WS Onion and the HMX Xinhai utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a similar sound profile characterized by sharpness, higher pitch, and crispness. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant light to shine through the housing. Therefore, whether you choose the WS Onion or the Xinhai, you can expect a comparable auditory experience with the polycarbonate top housing.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the WS Onion features nylon while the Xinhai also opts for nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other housing materials. This is due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound and produces a rounder and duller sound. As a result, typing on switches with nylon bottom housing will offer a more tactile and satisfying typing experience. Therefore, both the WS Onion and the Xinhai benefit from the qualities of nylon in their bottom housing, contributing to a consistent typing experience across both switches.
Overall, the choice between the Wuque Studio WS Onion and the HMX Xinhai may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. While both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, the distribution of these materials may impact the overall feel and sound of the switches. Whether you prioritize a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile or a deeper, fuller sound, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, trying out both switches and considering how the housing materials influence the typing experience can help in making an informed decision between the WS Onion and the Xinhai.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences based on force requirements. The WS Onion has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is medium-heavy, while the Xinhai is lighter with a bottom out force of 45 grams. The actuation force of the WS Onion is not specified, while the Xinhai requires 37 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may gravitate towards the Xinhai for its lower bottom out force, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the WS Onion provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing force and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Xinhai has a shorter travel distance compared to the WS Onion. The 4.0mm travel distance of the WS Onion is more traditional, providing a deeper key press feel, while the 3.4mm travel distance of the Xinhai offers a shallower key press experience. Gamers may prefer the Xinhai for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while others may opt for the WS Onion for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Wuque Studio WS Onion has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Onion for $5.53.
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
When it comes to sound, the WS Onion linear switch offers a neutral profile that is suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. On the other hand, the Xinhai linear switch has a distinctive clacky sound with sharp and snappy characteristics. Depending on personal preference and setup, users may find the WS Onion to be more versatile in different environments, while the Xinhai may cater to those who enjoy a more pronounced and percussive typing experience.
In terms of feel, the WS Onion linear switch is praised for its buttery and polished keystroke sensation, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. On the contrary, the Xinhai linear switch is characterized by its bouncy and creamy feel, offering users a spring-like elastic feedback and a silky keystroke sensation. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences that cater to different preferences, with the WS Onion leaning towards a fluid and uniform typing feel, and the Xinhai providing a lively and smooth keystroke feedback.
Overall, when comparing the subjective qualities of the WS Onion and Xinhai linear switches, users can expect a notable difference in sound and feel. The WS Onion offers a neutral sound profile with a buttery and polished keystroke feel, suitable for a wide range of users. In contrast, the Xinhai delivers a clacky sound with a bouncy and creamy typing experience, catering to those who prefer a more pronounced and elastic feedback. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these two switches to find the best match for their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, a neutral sound profile, and a smooth, polished feel, the WS Onion may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a lighter bottom out force, a clacky sound profile, and a bouncy, creamy feel, the Xinhai may better suit your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style, sound preferences, and the overall typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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