HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Dareu Dream
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Dareu Dream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Dareu Dream mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note their distinct characteristics and appeal. The Cloud - 63.5g is favored for its clacky sound profile and heavier actuation force, providing a bright typing experience that appeals to enthusiasts seeking a silky smooth feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream switches offer a light linear option at an attractive price point, making them a top choice for enthusiasts looking for a balance of quality and affordability. While the Cloud - 63.5g excels in its bouncy and creamy typing experience, the Dream stands out for being easy to press and having a mild 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
40g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Dareu Dream, we can see that the Cloud - 63.5g features a nylon top housing, while the Dream has a polycarbonate top housing. The nylon top housing of the Cloud - 63.5g creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound than harder plastics. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Dream produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile with its stiffer plastic material. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate top housing of the Dream allows for the use of RGB lighting due to its translucency, offering a different visual appeal compared to the Cloud - 63.5g.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Cloud - 63.5g and the Dareu Dream feature nylon bottom housings. This classic switch housing material provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. With both switches utilizing nylon for the bottom housing, users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel. The nylon bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, contributing to a duller and rounder overall sound quality.
When considering the impact of different housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are divided between the top and bottom housings. While the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice between a nylon top housing and a polycarbonate top housing, as seen in the Cloud - 63.5g and the Dareu Dream, can have a significant influence on the sound profile and overall typing sensation for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, it is apparent that the Cloud - 63.5g is heavier in both aspects. The actuation force of the Cloud - 63.5g is 56 grams, while the Dream has an actuation force of 40 grams, making it lighter. In terms of bottom out force, the Cloud - 63.5g has a force of 63.5 grams, while the Dream's bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Cloud - 63.5g due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a lighter touch may find the Dareu Dream to be more suitable for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch is 3.9 mm, slightly shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Dareu Dream linear switch. While both switches fall within the shorter range compared to more traditional distances, the Cloud - 63.5g offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers who prioritize speed and responsiveness may prefer the Cloud - 63.5g, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Dareu Dream. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
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 Dareu Dream has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dream for $3.76.
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
When it comes to sound, both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Dareu Dream switches are described as having a clacky sound profile. The Cloud - 63.5g offers a high-pitched and percussive sound, perfect for those who enjoy a sharp and crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the Dream switch provides a similar clacky sound, making it a suitable choice for users who prefer this type of auditory feedback. Ultimately, regardless of the specific descriptor, both switches offer a satisfying sound profile that can enhance the typing experience.
In terms of feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch is known for its bouncy and creamy sensation, providing users with a lively and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream switch offers an easy-to-press and mild feel, allowing for effortless and comfortable typing with minimal resistance. While the specific tactile feedback may differ between the two switches, both provide qualities that cater to the preferences of users looking for a pleasant typing feel. Whether you prefer a bouncy and creamy sensation or an easy-to-press and mild feel, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience.
Overall, while the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and Dareu Dream switches may differ in certain subjective qualities such as sound and feel, they both excel in providing a satisfying typing experience. Whether you prioritize a bright and clacky sound profile or a smooth and easy-to-press feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style, but rest assured that you can achieve similar levels of typing satisfaction with either option.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch or the Dareu Dream linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a heavier switch with a clacky sound profile and silky smooth feel, the Cloud - 63.5g would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch that is easy to press and offers a low-impact typing experience, the Dareu Dream switch may be more suitable. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so make sure to consider what characteristics are most important to you before making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on what type of typing experience you are looking for.
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