Kailh Berry vs. HMX Cloud - 63.5g
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Berry and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g, both of which are linear switches. The Kailh Berry switch is known for its hefty typing experience, with a springy feel and chalk-like texture that provides a unique sensation when typing. The sound profile is deep and categorized as textured, low-pitched, and bassy. On the other hand, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g offers a clacky sound profile, appealing to enthusiasts who enjoy a bright typing experience. With a silky smooth feel, this heavier variant of the Cloud switch is categorized as bouncy, clacky, creamy, and high-pitched. Each switch has its own distinct qualities that may suit different preferences, making them both viable options depending on individual needs. 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
56g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Berry and HMX Cloud - 63.5g switches both feature a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. However, the Berry's top housing is made of polycarbonate, which gives it a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The differences in housing materials between the two switches contribute to unique typing experiences for users.
In terms of aesthetics, the Berry's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Cloud - 63.5g's nylon top housing is more traditional and classic in appearance. While both housing materials have their own distinct advantages, the choice between the two ultimately depends on the user's preference for sound profile and visual style. Despite these differences, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their respective housing materials.
When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it's important to note that the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing plays a larger role in the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. While the Berry and Cloud - 63.5g switches may have differences in their housing materials, users can expect similar results in terms of switch responsiveness and overall typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Kailh Berry linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch, it is clear that they have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Kailh Berry has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is heavier than the HMX Cloud - 63.5g's bottom out force of 63.5 grams. Both switches do not have a specified actuation force, but we can assume that they will provide similar results in terms of typing experience. The Kailh Berry may be more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the HMX Cloud - 63.5g may be preferred by those who prefer a slightly lighter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. In this comparison, the Berry switch has a shorter travel distance than the Cloud switch. The 0.3 mm may seem like a small difference, but it can affect the typing experience for some users. Those who prefer a quicker response time may opt for the Berry switch with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Cloud switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style, but both switches offer a different feel due to their varying travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cloud - 63.5g for $2.99.
The Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25 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 Kailh Berry linear switch is known for its low-pitched and bassy tones, providing a deep and mellow sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound, giving a sharp, crisp, and bright typing experience. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the deeper tones of the Berry switch or the brighter clacks of the Cloud switch to suit their auditory preferences, keeping in mind that sound can also be influenced by the keyboard build and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Kailh Berry linear switch is noted for its textured typing experience, offering a noticeable friction when keys are pressed. This texture can add a layer of feedback and tactile sensation to typing, which some users may find appealing. In contrast, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch provides a bouncy and creamy feel, giving a spring-like sensation with a smooth and buttery touch. The bouncy nature of the Cloud switch allows for a lively and elastic feedback, while the creamy feel offers a silky and gliding experience, enhancing the overall typing comfort and satisfaction for users.
Considering both the sound and feel aspects of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch, users can expect contrasting experiences based on their preferences. The Berry switch offers a deeper, bassy sound with a textured typing feel, while the Cloud switch presents a brighter, clacky sound with a bouncy and creamy typing sensation. Ultimately, users can choose between the two switches depending on their desired sound profile, typing experience, and overall keyboard preference to achieve a satisfying and personalized mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a hefty and springy typing experience with a chalk-like texture and deep sound profile, the Berry switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bright and clacky typing experience with a silky smooth feel and bouncy feedback, the Cloud - 63.5g switch would be the more suitable choice. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and feel while typing.
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