HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Outemu Crystal
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Crystal switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Crystal mechanical keyboard switches, it's evident that both options offer unique characteristics and benefits. The Cloud - 63.5g is favored for its clacky sound profile and heavier weight, appealing to typing enthusiasts looking for a bright and tactile experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal provides a more elastic and medium-light feel, resulting in a linear typing experience with a neutral sound profile. Each switch is categorized by different attributes such as 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky' for the Cloud - 63.5g, and 'Chirpy' and 'Polished' for the Crystal. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences and typing style. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Crystal, it is evident that they both offer distinct sound profiles due to their different properties. The Cloud - 63.5g's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Crystal's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, as polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that produces a clear and resonant sound. While both materials have unique characteristics, they cater to different preferences in sound aesthetics.
Moving on to the bottom housing of the switches, the same trend is observed with the HMX Cloud - 63.5g's nylon bottom housing offering a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. In contrast, the Outemu Crystal's polycarbonate bottom housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, reflecting the stiffer properties of polycarbonate. Both materials serve to enhance the overall sound output of the switches, complementing the sound profiles produced by the top housings. Aesthetically, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate can also impact the visual appeal of the switches, especially if RGB lighting is a factor to consider.
When considering switches with different top and bottom housing materials, it is important to note how each material contributes to the overall typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing will influence the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing will affect the sound produced when releasing the key. By understanding the unique properties of nylon and polycarbonate, users can choose a switch that aligns with their desired sound profile and typing experience. Ultimately, both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Crystal offer distinct characteristics that cater to varying preferences in sound aesthetics and typing feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Outemu Crystal linear switch differ in weight, with the Cloud being heavier and the Crystal being lighter. The Cloud - 63.5g has an actuation force of 56 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Crystal features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, resulting in a medium-light feel. Those who prefer a lighter typing feel may opt for the Outemu Crystal, ideal for extended typing sessions, while those seeking a more robust typing experience may choose the HMX Cloud - 63.5g for a more substantial push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Outemu Crystal linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. While the difference in distance may seem minimal, it can have an impact on your typing or gaming experience. The Cloud - 63.5g offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Crystal switch provides a slightly longer travel distance, which may feel more substantial and satisfying to those who prefer a deeper keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for travel distance and how it affects your typing or gaming style.
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 Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40 per 10 switches.
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 HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and bright typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal switch offers a chirpy and high-pitched sound, giving a unique acoustic signature to your typing. Both switches may appeal to different preferences in sound, with the Cloud switch being more percussive and the Crystal switch offering a bit of a squeak in its sound.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch is described as bouncy and creamy, providing a spring-like feedback and a smooth, buttery typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Crystal switch is said to have a polished feel, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer a distinct sensation when typing, with the Cloud switch focusing on a lively rebound feel and the Crystal switch providing a sleek and polished keystroke experience.
Overall, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and Outemu Crystal linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a clacky, high-pitched sound and a bouncy, creamy feel, the Cloud switch may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a chirpy, high-pitched sound and a polished, smooth typing experience, the Crystal switch could be the ideal choice. It's important to consider your personal preferences in sound and feel when choosing between these two switches to ensure that you get the typing experience that best suits your needs.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Crystal linear switches, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a brighter, clacky sound profile and a heavier bottom out force, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch would be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique, linear typing experience with a medium-light touch and a chirpy sound profile, the Outemu Crystal linear switch may be more suited to your liking. Both switches offer different tactile and auditory sensations, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when selecting the switch that best fits your typing style and preferences.
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