Kailh Box White V2 vs. HMX Cloud - 63.5g
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, selecting the right one can greatly enhance your typing experience. The Kailh Box White V2 switches stand out for their clicky nature, delivering satisfying tactile feedback and a distinctive audible click that many typists and gamers appreciate for its responsiveness and engagement. In contrast, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch offers a different experience with its linear design, characterized by a clacky sound profile and a heavier actuation force that provides a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke. While the Box White V2 is ideal for those who thrive on the auditory and tactile sensations of typing, the HMX Cloud caters to enthusiasts seeking a serene yet dynamic typing experience. Each switch presents unique advantages, appealing to different preferences and usage styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
56g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White V2 and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g utilize different materials for their top housing, which significantly influences their auditory characteristics and overall performance. The Box White V2 features a polycarbonate top housing known for its stiffness, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g utilizes nylon for its top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This disparity stems from the inherent properties of the materials: polycarbonate reflects sound waves in a way that accentuates higher frequencies, while nylon's softer composition absorbs sound, leading to a rounder auditory experience. Therefore, users seeking a bright and clear sound would gravitate towards the Kailh Box White V2, whereas those preferring a warmer and more muted sound might find the HMX Cloud - 63.5g to be more suitable.
Interestingly, both switches share similarities in their bottom housing, as both are constructed from nylon. This uniformity in material choice allows for a consistent subdued sound profile on the bottom side of each switch. The bottom housing plays a crucial role in the typing experience, particularly in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down. Both switches deliver a deeper and fuller sound when bottoming out, given the nylon's sound-absorbing qualities. Therefore, regardless of the differences in their top housings, users will find that both switches offer a pleasing tactile feedback experience due to their identical bottom housing material.
Ultimately, the differences and similarities in housing materials between the Kailh Box White V2 and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g elicit varied sound experiences while maintaining a level of consistency in feel. The Box White V2's polycarbonate top enables bright auditory feedback during the act of releasing a key, making it perfect for users who favor pronounced sounds. Conversely, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g's nylon top produces a softer initial sound as the key is released. However, both switches equally benefit from the nylon bottom, which harmonizes their overall acoustic signatures, offering a deeper sound profile when keys are fully depressed. As a result, if users value a brighter sound but still seek a deeper bottom-out experience, they might consider the Box White V2, while those leaning towards a more muted sound across the board would likely prefer the HMX Cloud - 63.5g.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Box White V2 features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming due to its lower resistance. In contrast, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g has a heavier actuation force of 56 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Consequently, if you're looking for a lighter switch to minimize fatigue during long use, the Kailh Box White V2 is the better choice. On the other hand, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g provides a firmer feedback that some users may favor for a more tactile feel. Overall, while both switches have their strengths, the Box White V2 stands out for its lighter actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.9 mm. This makes the Box White V2 the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers or users looking for quick response times due to its reduced travel distance. Conversely, the HMX Cloud, with its longer travel distance, provides a richer and more substantial feel with each keystroke, catering to those who prefer a deeper typing experience. While both switches have their own advantages based on user preferences, selecting the Box White V2 could result in a more immediate response, while the Cloud switch may offer a more satisfying tactile feedback during use.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh Box White V2 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Box White V2 for $3.00.
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, the Kailh Box White V2 switch is celebrated for its crisp, tactile feedback accompanied by an audible click sound. This clickiness can provide a satisfying auditory response for typists who enjoy a definitive feedback loop with each key press. On the other hand, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch is characterized by a clacky sound profile, described as sharp and snappy, delivering a bright and percussive tone. This high-pitched nature contrasts with the more pronounced click of the Box White V2, creating a different aural experience while typing. Both switches, however, can have their sound qualities influenced by the keyboard construction and the type of keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box White V2 switch offers a tactile sensation that allows users to feel when the switch is actuated, enhancing the typing experience for those who prefer feedback. In comparison, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch has a bouncy feel that provides elastic feedback, making it lively and responsive. Additionally, this switch is noted for its creamy sensation, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience, which can make repetitive typing tasks more enjoyable. While these two switches differ in tactile responsiveness, both aim to provide a pleasurable typing experience tailored to different preferences.
Considering both sound and feel, the Kailh Box White V2 and HMX Cloud - 63.5g switches present distinct profiles that cater to individual tastes. The former emphasizes tactile feedback with a pronounced click, making it ideal for those who appreciate auditory cues in their typing. In contrast, the latter is designed for enthusiasts who prefer a bouncy and silky smooth experience, complemented by a cheerful sound. Ultimately, while the two switches offer varying experiences, both can lead to satisfying results, depending on your personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter switch that delivers tactile feedback and an audible click, making every keystroke feel satisfying and prominent, the Box White V2 is an excellent option. It's particularly suited for typists who enjoy that reassuring click and tactile response, which can enhance your typing experience, especially in a quiet or focused environment. On the other hand, if you find yourself drawn to a heavier switch with a lively and bouncy feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g would be a better fit. Its clacky sound profile appeals to those who enjoy a bright auditory experience while typing, combined with a creamy smoothness that makes each keystroke feel plush and effortless. Ultimately, consider your typing routine and whether you crave the feedback of a click or the glide of a linear switch to help guide your decision.
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