Kailh Box Royal vs. HMX Cloud - 50g

Overview

When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the difference between tactile and linear switches can greatly influence your typing experience. The Kailh Box Royal is celebrated for its pronounced tactile feedback, offering one of the sharpest and most aggressive tactile experiences available. This switch produces a high-pitched sound profile that signals each keystroke with clarity, making it a compelling choice for typists who appreciate a distinct tactile response during their interactions. In contrast, the HMX Cloud - 50g presents a smoother, linear experience that caters to those who seek a more subdued ambiance while typing. With its clacky sound profile and silky feel, this switch allows for a rapid, fluid keystroke without the tactile bump, appealing to gamers and typists who favor speed and seamlessness over tactile feedback. Both switches have their merits depending on user preference—whether you're drawn to the sharp tactility of the Box Royal or the smooth operation of the Cloud - 50g. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.

By the numbers

Kailh Box Royal Tactile

HMX Cloud - 50g Linear

$6.25 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

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Housing materials

Both the Kailh Box Royal and HMX Cloud - 50g use nylon for their top and bottom housings, which echoes their status as high-quality switch materials. Nylon, as a classic switch housing material, is known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition. This softer plastic can absorb sound more effectively than harder materials, resulting in a sound that is notably duller and rounder—a contrast to the sharper sound typically produced by switches made with harder plastics. This similarity in housing material means users can expect a similar auditory experience from both switches, characterized by a satisfying sound signature that enhances typing comfort.

Despite the identical choice of nylon for both the Kailh Box Royal and the HMX Cloud - 50g, their performances might still cater to different preferences depending on other attributes such as switch design, actuation force, and tactile feedback. The sound and feel of each switch can vary even with the same material; for example, the Kailh Box Royal may have a distinct actuation point or spring strength that influences the user's typing experience. Therefore, even with the shared material, the uniqueness of each switch's design could lead to different user experiences during typing or gaming, affecting how the switches are perceived favorably or unfavorably under various conditions.

In terms of sound response when typing, the similarities in material certainly suggest that users will appreciate a comparable acoustic feedback across both switches. Because both the Kailh Box Royal and HMX Cloud - 50g utilize nylon for their tops and bottoms, the transition from pressing down on a key to releasing it will yield a similar auditory outcome. In pressing down, users will experience the plushness and absorption properties of the nylon bottom housing—contributing to a pleasant bottom-out sound. Meanwhile, the nylon top housing will soften the sound of key release, further reinforcing the notion that despite potential variances in other characteristics, both switches can undoubtedly deliver a sound profile that many typists and gamers find appealing.

Weight

When comparing the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Box Royal requires a higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the lighter 42 grams of the Cloud - 50g, making the latter easier to press down and more suitable for long typing sessions. Additionally, the bottom out force for the Box Royal is 70 grams, which signifies a firmer end point when keys are fully pressed down, while the Cloud - 50g’s bottom out force is considerably lighter at 50 grams. This means that for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with pronounced feedback, the Box Royal may be the better option. Conversely, if a lighter touch is preferred for extended use or gaming, the HMX Cloud - 50g would be the recommended choice. In summary, while the Kailh Box Royal offers a medium-heavy feel with its actuation and bottom out forces, the HMX Cloud - 50g is distinctly lighter overall, appealing to those looking for comfort and ease of use.

Travel distance

When comparing the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.6 mm to the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch at 3.9 mm, we observe that the Box Royal provides a shorter travel distance. This means that the Kailh Box Royal may offer a more responsive feel, which is often preferred by gamers seeking quicker response times. On the other hand, the HMX Cloud - 50g, with its longer travel distance, might appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke experience, as it provides a deeper and possibly more satisfying tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on individual preferences—whether one prioritizes speed and responsiveness or a traditional keystroke depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch produces a high-pitched tone that elicits a sharp and crisp sound when engaged. For users who prefer a sound profile that is on the brighter side, this switch is an excellent choice, particularly if they're not fond of the deeper, more bass-heavy sounds that some other switches offer. In contrast, although the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch is noted for its clacky sound profile, specific details about its sound characteristics aren’t provided. However, one can anticipate a different auditory experience since the linear switch doesn't have the tactile bump that typically accompanies tactile switches like the Box Royal.

In terms of feel, the Box Royal switch is characterized by its sharp tactile feedback, delivering a distinctive and intense tactile bump that users will readily detect with every keypress. This strong tactile sensation makes it an optimal choice for users who enjoy an assertive response from their switches. The HMX Cloud - 50g, on the other hand, tends to provide a silky smooth experience with no tactile feedback, which is typical for linear switches. This offers a fluid typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer uninterrupted keystrokes without the tactile sensation.

In conclusion, while both the Kailh Box Royal and HMX Cloud - 50g offer unique experiences, they cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. The Box Royal is perfect for users seeking aggressive tactility with a sharp sound profile, while the Cloud - 50g serves those who enjoy a smoother action with a potentially clacky sound. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and sound or a smoother and quieter typing experience. Either way, both types will provide satisfying results, although in quite different ways.

Conclusion

To conclude, the decision between the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and the experience you're seeking. If you favor a pronounced and aggressive tactile feedback that enhances your typing accuracy and provides strong keystroke confirmation, the Box Royal is your best choice, particularly if you enjoy a high-pitched sound profile and a medium-heavy actuation force. This switch is ideal for those who thrive on the feel of each keypress, making it an excellent option for typists and gamers who value tactile precision. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and a smoother, more fluid typing experience with a clacky sound, the HMX Cloud - 50g is likely to suit you better. With its 50-gram actuation force, this switch provides an effortless typing experience that many find perfect for extended use, whether it's for work or casual gaming. Ultimately, choose the Box Royal for that sharp tactile sensation and responsiveness, while the Cloud - 50g is there for those who appreciate a lightweight key feel and a lively auditory feedback without the aggression.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box Royal Tactile

$6.25 per 10

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HMX Cloud - 50g Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more