Wuque Studio WS Red vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Wuque Studio WS Red and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to the balance between feel and sound profile. The Wuque Studio WS Red switch stands out with its 22mm double-stage spring, providing a bouncy and responsive typing experience that delivers a heavier actuation force. This characteristic imparts a satisfying weight to each keystroke, making it particularly appealing to typists who value a more substantial feel in their hands. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch presents a different proposition; its unique PA12 top housing is designed for softer acoustics, while the POM stem contributes to an elevated, crisp sound that distinguishes it from other linear options. This switch combines subtle sophistication with precise performance, appealing to users who appreciate a refined auditory experience with their typing. Each switch has its strengths and target audience, ultimately leading to different tactile preferences. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Wuque Studio WS Red and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This commonality in material choice indicates that both switches are designed to produce a similar acoustic experience. Nylon, being a softer plastic, helps absorb sound waves, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Consequently, users of both the WS Red and the Xinhai (Heavy) can expect a round and muted keystroke sound that enhances the typing experience, particularly appealing for those who favor quieter environments.
Despite both switches sharing the same housing material, slight variations in design or construction details may influence how these characteristics manifest during use. The overall sound and feel when typing on these switches can still reflect individual preferences and typing styles. For instance, while both switches will likely generate that comfortable, dampened sound, the differences in their internal mechanisms or spring configurations can result in varied feedback and key feel, which might sway a typist's experience. Therefore, while the sonic outcome may be similar due to the nylon housing, the tactile feedback might diverge slightly depending on the overall switch design.
Ultimately, by employing the same nylon material in both the WS Red and the Xinhai (Heavy), we can predict similar acoustic properties and sound profiles, while the user experience will vary due to the impact of other design elements. If users prioritize sound dampening and a full typing experience, both switches should meet those needs effectively. However, to truly understand the nuances between the two, one would have to consider factors beyond just housing material, such as switch actuation and overall ergonomics, which can significantly affect how each feels and sounds under the fingers.
Weight
The Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The WS Red switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy, while its actuation force is unspecified. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch boasts a defined actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, placing it in the medium range. This makes the Xinhai switch the lighter option in terms of actuation force, ideally suited for longer typing sessions, whereas the WS Red’s heavier bottom out force suggests a more substantial tactile experience. Ultimately, those preferring a lighter actuation may find the Xinhai more comfortable, while users who enjoy a firmer press will likely favor the WS Red’s feel, despite its lack of an explicit actuation force specification.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences that cater to various preferences. The WS Red features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it the longer option, while the Xinhai (Heavy) offers a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This distinction is significant for users who prioritize responsiveness, as the shorter travel distance of the Xinhai switch may provide quicker actuation, favored by gamers seeking rapid response times. Conversely, the longer travel distance of the WS Red might appeal to users who appreciate a more pronounced tactile feedback, allowing for a more deliberate typing experience. Therefore, those who prefer a snappier feel should lean towards the Xinhai (Heavy), while those who enjoy a deeper key press may find the WS Red more to their liking.
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 Red comes in at $3.50 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 Red switch is characterized by its classic material blend, producing a familiar yet pleasing auditory signature that isn't intrusive. It strikes a balanced tone that many typists and gamers appreciate for its moderate decibel level, making it suitable for both casual and professional environments. On the other hand, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch employs a unique PA12 top housing, designed to create a softer acoustic profile, while its POM stem contributes to a distinctively crisp and higher-pitched resonance. This combination results in a refined sound experience, appreciated by those looking to elevate their typing ambiance with a touch of sophistication. Regardless of the switch, remember that factors such as your board and keycaps will greatly influence the final sound.
In terms of feel, the WS Red switch utilizes a 22mm double-stage spring, which provides a bouncy and responsive typing experience. This heavier actuation force gives each keystroke a satisfying weight, ensuring a substantial and engaging feeling while typing. By contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) offers a different tactile feedback, emphasizing precise performance and softness thanks to its specially crafted components. This switch captures a smooth yet firm sensation, appealing to users who prioritize control in their keystrokes. While both switches are linear, they cater to different preferences in terms of how each keystroke engages with the user.
Overall, both the WS Red and Xinhai (Heavy) switches showcase their unique strengths in sound and feel, making them both excellent choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The WS Red leans towards a classic, familiar experience with a bouncy feel and moderate sound profile, while the Xinhai (Heavy) provides a more sophisticated auditory experience paired with a smooth and precise typing sensation. Depending on your individual preferences regarding response and auditory environment, either switch can provide satisfying results, ensuring that you'll enjoy your typing experience regardless of the choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, consider your personal typing style and preferences. If you enjoy a more substantial keystroke with a heavier actuation force, the WS Red is a solid choice. It provides a bouncy and responsive typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a tactile feedback and a more pronounced feel with each press. This switch is well-suited for users who type vigorously and appreciate a bit of resistance, enhancing satisfaction during long typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, slightly lighter touch for a quieter, more refined typing experience, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) may be your best bet. Its unique material composition lends it softer acoustics and a crisp, higher-pitched sound, making it perfect for those in quieter environments or those who type with less force. Ultimately, your choice between the WS Red and Xinhai (Heavy) will depend on whether you prioritize the satisfying weight of each keystroke or a softer, yet precise typing experience.
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