Kailh Box Royal vs. HMX Cloud - 63.5g

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh Box Royal and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g offer distinctly different experiences tailored to varied typing preferences. The Box Royal is renowned for its sharp and pronounced tactile feedback, making it an ideal choice for users who crave that aggressive tactile sensation often favored by gamers and typists who appreciate a definite actuation point. Its higher-pitched sound profile provides an audible cue, enhancing the overall typing experience with each key press. In contrast, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g presents a silkier, smooth feel, appealing to enthusiasts who prefer a more fluid typing motion. This linear switch, with its clacky and bouncy characteristics, delivers a brighter auditory experience that adds a lively element to typing. While both switches cater to unique preferences—whether you prioritize tactile feedback or a smooth keystroke—let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Kailh Box Royal Tactile

HMX Cloud - 63.5g Linear

$6.25 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

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Housing materials

Both the Kailh Box Royal and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g utilize nylon as their housing material for both the top and bottom components. This shared choice of material plays a significant role in defining their auditory and tactile performance, lending to an overall deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for its softer texture compared to other plastics, which means it can absorb sound more effectively, thus resulting in a sound that is duller and rounder. As a consequence, users of either switch can anticipate a similar auditory experience as they type, especially at the point of bottoming out, where the impact is largely influenced by the bottom housing material.

In terms of build quality, both switches maintain the benefits associated with nylon materials, including durability and a pleasing tactile feel. Since both the Box Royal and HMX Cloud integrate nylon throughout their construct, they deliver a consistent performance in sound isolation and modulation. The nylon components essentially work together to create a harmonious interaction, minimizing any harsh sounds. Therefore, whether a user is interacting with the Kailh Box Royal or the HMX Cloud - 63.5g, they should find that the softer nature of the nylon contributes to a muted acoustic environment, ideal for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience.

Even with identical materials used in the top and bottom housings, subtle differences in design, such as switch stem configuration or leaf design, can lead to distinct feel or responsiveness between the Kailh Box Royal and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g. While the nylon in both instances assures a consistent sound profile, the user experience in terms of key travel and tactile feedback might vary slightly, depending on additional engineering variables. However, for users primarily considering sound quality, it can be argued that both switches will yield quite comparable results in their overall performance, reinforcing the excellence of nylon as a premier housing material.

Weight

When comparing the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Box Royal has an actuation force of 45 grams, which makes it lighter than the HMX Cloud's actuation force of 56 grams. This means that users who prefer a lighter touch and plan on typing for extended periods may find the Box Royal more comfortable. However, the bottom out force of the Box Royal is 70 grams, which is heavier compared to the Cloud's bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This indicates that while the Box Royal requires less force to activate a keystroke, it demands more force when fully pressed down. Ultimately, the Box Royal can offer a more responsive feel at the initial keystroke, while the Cloud provides a substantial experience with a heavier consistent feel throughout both actuation and bottoming out.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch, it is evident that the Box Royal has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cloud - 63.5g features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.9 mm. This 0.3 mm difference can influence the overall typing experience significantly. For those who appreciate a more responsive feel, the Kailh Box Royal might be the preferred choice due to its shorter travel, which can facilitate quicker actuation, making it ideal for gaming or fast-paced typing situations. Conversely, the HMX Cloud's longer travel distance may appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke, offering a deeper and more satisfying feedback with each press. This can make the typing experience feel more substantial and less abrupt, catering to those who appreciate a heavier depth in their switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference regarding keystroke responsiveness versus keystroke depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Royal switch produces a higher-pitched tone, known for its sharp and crisp acoustic profile. This makes it ideal for users who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback from their keystrokes, without the low, rich, bassy qualities that some other switches might offer. On the other hand, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g presents a clacky sound profile that is both sharp and bright, delivering a snappy and percussive auditory experience. While both switches have a high-pitched character, the Box Royal's sound is distinctly sharper, making it slightly different from the Cloud's more dynamic clackiness, which could be influenced by factors like the keyboard's build and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Box Royal is known for its sharp tactility, offering a striking tactile bump that provides intense feedback with every keystroke. This prominent sensation makes it particularly suited for users who prefer an aggressive tactile experience that ensures they know exactly when a key has been actuated. Conversely, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g offers a more playful experience with its bouncy response, creating a lively feel that rebounds gently upon pressing. Additionally, the creamy smoothness associated with the Cloud makes for a silky typing experience, making it easier for fingers to glide across the keys. While both switches cater to different tactile preferences, they provide distinct yet gratifying sensations that fulfill various typing styles.

In conclusion, while the Kailh Box Royal and HMX Cloud - 63.5g switches differ significantly in both sound and feel, they each offer unique experiences tailored to specific user preferences. The Box Royal excels with its sharp tactility and high-pitched, crisp sound, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a robust tactile feedback. In contrast, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g combines a lively bounce and creamy texture with a bright clacky sound that enhances the typing experience for enthusiasts who enjoy a smoother, more fluid keystroke. Ultimately, your choice between them will depend on whether you prioritize sharp tactile feedback or a more buttery, responsive typing feel.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you thrive on strong tactile feedback and enjoy an aggressive typing experience, the Box Royal's sharp and distinct tactile bump is likely to be your best bet. Its high-pitched sound profile and solid bottom-out force provide a satisfying engagement that can enhance your typing precision. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more fluid typing experience, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch is the way to go, especially if you enjoy a clacky sound that elevates your auditory feedback while typing. The slightly lighter bottom-out force paired with its bouncy, creamy feel delivers a more effortless keystroke, making it perfect for those long typing sessions or gaming marathons. So, consider whether you prioritize tactile engagement or a smooth, soothing typing experience as you decide which switch aligns best with your needs.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box Royal Tactile

$6.25 per 10

Learn more

HMX Cloud - 63.5g Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more