HMX Blue Topaz vs. HMX Cloud - 63.5g
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Blue Topaz and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes apparent that both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Blue Topaz stands out for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing users with a seamless typing experience. On the other hand, the Cloud - 63.5g offers a heavier variant with a clacky sound profile, suiting enthusiasts who seek a bright typing sensation. The Blue Topaz is ideal for those looking for an easy-to-press switch with a clacky sound, while the Cloud - 63.5g is perfect for individuals who prefer a bouncy and creamy feel with a high-pitched sound. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine the best switch for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
56g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g, both switches feature a nylon bottom housing. This means that typing on these switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon and its ability to absorb more sound. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, providing a more rounded and dull sound compared to switches with harder plastic housings. This similarity in housing material suggests that users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either switch.
However, where the Blue Topaz and the Cloud - 63.5g differ is in their top housing materials. The Blue Topaz utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound when typing on the switch. In contrast, the Cloud - 63.5g features a nylon top housing, which brings a deeper and fuller sound profile to the switch. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate. This difference in top housing materials will have a noticeable impact on the sound when pressing and releasing a key on the switch.
Overall, the choice between the HMX Blue Topaz and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g will ultimately come down to personal preference in sound profile. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing for a similar typing experience, the difference in top housing material will provide distinct sound characteristics. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Blue Topaz or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon in the Cloud - 63.5g, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to individual preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a more delicate option. In comparison, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 56 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Blue Topaz would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a stronger push feel for a more satisfying typing experience, the Cloud - 63.5g would be the better option. Considering the weight of the switches is essential as it greatly impacts the typing experience and comfort level for the user. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.9 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom will be identical. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of how the keys feel and respond when using either of these switches. It is worth noting that both switches offer a consistent travel distance, providing a smooth typing experience for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Blue Topaz has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Topaz for $3.49.
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.
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
In terms of sound, both the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch are described as clacky, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. However, the Cloud - 63.5g also offers a high-pitched sound profile, adding an extra layer of brightness to the typing experience. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Blue Topaz is known for its easy-to-press nature, offering a gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This results in a smooth and effortless typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during prolonged use. On the other hand, the Cloud - 63.5g is noted for its bouncy and creamy feel, providing a spring-like feedback sensation and a smooth, buttery typing experience. Both switches offer a unique tactile feedback that enhances the overall typing feel for users.
In conclusion, while the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch may differ slightly in sound and feel, both switches provide an excellent typing experience with their own distinctive qualities. Whether you prefer a lighter and smoother actuation with a clacky sound like the Blue Topaz or a heavier and bouncier feel with a clacky and high-pitched sound like the Cloud - 63.5g, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch. When choosing between the two, consider your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience to determine which switch is the best fit for you.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences for typing experience. If you are looking for a smooth and lightweight feel with a clacky sound, the Blue Topaz is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier key press with a brighter typing experience and a bouncy, creamy feel, the Cloud - 63.5g may be more suited to your liking. Consider factors such as actuation force, sound profile, and key feel when making your decision to ensure that you choose the switch that best fits your personal typing style and preferences.
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