HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. HMX Cloud - 50g
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the HMX Cloud - 50g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves at a crossroads between options that cater to both preference and typing experience. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the HMX Cloud - 50g, both linear switches, present intriguing choices with slight yet significant differences. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g is known for its clacky sound profile and heavier actuation force, making it ideal for users who appreciate a bouncy, creamy typing experience that delivers a more pronounced auditory feedback. This switch is well-suited for those who enjoy tactile engagement, especially during long typing sessions. On the other hand, the HMX Cloud - 50g, with a lighter actuation force, offers the same clacky sound but allows for quicker key presses, appealing to gamers or typists who prefer a more responsive feel. Both switches provide a silky smooth experience, but the choice between the heavier and lighter variants ultimately boils down to personal preferences regarding sound and feel. 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
56g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Nylon
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-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the HMX Cloud - 50g switches are consistent in their construction, as both models feature a nylon top and bottom housing. This uniformity means that users can expect a similar auditory and tactile experience when typing on either switch. The use of nylon in both cases contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, which is a hallmark of switches made from this classic material. Since nylon is a relatively softer plastic compared to alternatives, it absorbs more sound waves, resulting in a duller and rounder acoustic output. Thus, regardless of the weight differences between the two switches, the shared housing material will help achieve similar acoustical results.
While the nylon composition is the same for both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the HMX Cloud - 50g, the differences in weight might influence the overall typing experience. The 63.5g switch is designed with a heavier actuation force, which could lead to a more deliberate and controlled keystroke. In contrast, the 50g switch, being lighter, may allow for quicker and more effortless presses. However, since both utilize nylon in both the top and bottom housings, users can still anticipate resonant sound qualities that are characteristic of nylon switches, irrespective of the weight factor. This provides an interesting contrast in feel while maintaining a similar acoustic and subjective experience.
Furthermore, the balanced integration of the nylon housing contributes not only to the sound but also to the feel of the switches. As the bottom housing significantly impacts bottom-out sound and feel, typists can expect a consistent experience with both models when it comes to how they perceive each switch's response and audio profile. Additionally, since the top housing affects the sound when releasing keys, the similarity in housing material ensures that both models will echo the same sound characteristics when transitioning from pressed to released states. Overall, while the weight of the switches may differ, the identical housing materials predictably contribute to a shared auditory foundation.
Weight
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch differ significantly in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Cloud - 63.5g requires an actuation force of 56 grams and has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Cloud - 50g features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a more suitable choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. This variance suggests that users who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions might find the Cloud - 50g to be more comfortable. Conversely, those looking for more substantial feedback in their keystrokes may lean towards the Cloud - 63.5g, which provides a firmer feel. Overall, the Cloud - 50g is the lighter option, while the Cloud - 63.5g is the heavier switch, offering distinct experiences based on individual preferences concerning actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch both feature an identical travel distance of 3.9 mm. This means that regardless of the actuation force, users will experience the same distance when pressing down on the keys of either switch. As a result, whether you opt for the 63.5g or the 50g switch, the key feel and travel distance will remain consistent, providing users with a uniform typing experience. Therefore, while the actuation force differs between the two switches, the travel distance ultimately leads to similar results in key responsiveness.
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 HMX Cloud - 50g 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 - 50g 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
The sound profile of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch is characterized as clacky, which produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This creates a typing experience that is bright and engaging, delivering a crisp and high-pitched auditory feedback that many enthusiasts find appealing. While the Cloud - 50g also shares a clacky sound profile, specific descriptors about its sonic characteristics are not provided. However, one can expect a similar bright typing experience all around, given that both switches are categorized similarly, just at different weights.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g stands out with descriptors like bouncy and creamy. The bouncy nature provides a delightful spring-like feedback that makes typing feel lively and responsive, while the creamy sensation offers an incredibly smooth and buttery experience on each keystroke. The combination of these sensations allows for an effortlessly enjoyable typing experience. In contrast, there are no specific descriptions available for the feel of the Cloud - 50g, but as a lighter variant, it is likely to deliver a different kind of tactile feedback that can still cater to enthusiasts looking for a lighter touch, even if it's not explicitly defined.
In conclusion, both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and HMX Cloud - 50g linear switches offer similar clacky sound profiles that cater to a bright typing experience, though one may appeal more depending on individual preference for weight. While the 63.5g variant provides a detailed sensory experience with its bounciness and creaminess, the lack of specific descriptors for the 50g leaves some uncertainty about its feel. Ultimately, enthusiasts may find that both switches serve their purpose effectively, encouraging a delightful typing experience, albeit with nuanced differences that cater to personal preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and style. If you enjoy a heavier feel and appreciate the tactile sensations that come with a medium-heavy switch, the Cloud - 63.5g would be an excellent choice for you. Its clacky sound profile and bouncy, creamy feel are perfect for those who want a more responsive typing experience that energizes each keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with less resistance, the Cloud - 50g may be more suited to your needs. This lighter variant allows you to type with less effort while still enjoying the same bright sound profile. Therefore, if you plan on extensive typing sessions or fast-paced gaming, the lighter switch can help reduce finger fatigue. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your individual comfort level with weight, sound, and the typing experience you desire; consider your personal habits to find what feels right for you.
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