HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. HMX FJ400
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the HMX FJ400 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the HMX FJ400 stand out as notable linear options, each catering to different user preferences. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g is beloved for its heavier actuation force and clacky sound profile, providing enthusiasts with a bright and engaging typing experience that is both bouncy and silky smooth. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy a tactile feedback combined with auditory stimulation, making it ideal for gamers and typists alike who appreciate a more pronounced sound. On the other hand, the HMX FJ400 serves as a versatile middle ground within the HMX Film switch lineup, offering a balanced sound profile that appeals to users seeking a quieter yet still satisfying typing experience. While both switches share a linear design and provide a seamless feel during use, they ultimately cater to different tastes in sound and feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
56g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
T2
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
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-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the HMX FJ400, notable differences can be observed in their top housings. The Cloud - 63.5g utilizes a nylon top housing, which is celebrated for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributable to nylon's relatively soft nature, allowing for sound absorption that results in a duller and rounder auditory experience. On the other hand, the FJ400 features a POM top housing, which, though it also delivers a deeper sound, presents a distinct audio signature that is uniquely muted. While both materials contribute to rich sound profiles, the shift from nylon to POM in the FJ400 introduces a subtle change in the auditory experience of key presses.
Despite the differences in their top housings, both models share the same bottom housing material—nylon. This consistency in material means that both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the FJ400 will deliver similar auditory characteristics when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel during typing. Since nylon is used in both models for the bottom housing, users can expect a deeper sound profile that is rounded and softer upon key press impacts. This similarity between the bottom housings ensures that when the keys are depressed, the sound produced will maintain the traits of nylon's sound absorption capabilities, delivering a satisfying tactile experience.
In essence, while the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and HMX FJ400 differ in their top housing materials—with the Cloud utilizing nylon for a fuller sound and the FJ400 offering POM for a unique muting effect—their shared use of nylon in the bottom housing allows for a cohesive sound profile when typing. The interplay of the different top haptics and the similarity in the bottom material illustrates how each switch's housing contributes to the overall auditory and tactile feedback. This design synergy suggests that, despite their differing top housings, users can still attain a satisfactory sound experience when using either model.
Weight
Comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch reveals some notable differences between these two options. The Cloud - 63.5g requires a heavier actuation force of 56 grams, compared to the FJ400’s lighter 50 grams, making it better suited for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. When it comes to bottom out forces, the Cloud - 63.5g also comes in heavier at 63.5 grams, while the FJ400 has a bottom out force of 58 grams, affirming the Cloud's medium-heavy feel versus the FJ400's medium feel. For users who type for extended periods, the lighter FJ400 may offer more comfort and less fatigue, while the Cloud - 63.5g might be favored by those seeking a firmer push for an enhanced tactile experience. In summary, the Cloud - 63.5g is the heavier option overall, while the FJ400 is lighter and potentially more suitable for prolonged use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch, the Cloud switch features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the FJ400 has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Although both switches fall within the typical range of travel distances, the Cloud switch offers a greater depth, providing a more pronounced tactile experience for users who appreciate traditional switch feel. In contrast, the FJ400's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times and a more rapid actuation. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal preference: if you prefer a deeper, more substantial response during key presses, go for the Cloud - 63.5g, while those who favor an expedited keystroke may opt for the FJ400.
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 FJ400 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the FJ400 for $3.29.
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 HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch is renowned for its clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and bright auditory experience that is both crisp and percussive. This high-pitched characteristic resonates well with enthusiasts who prefer a lively environment while typing, as it allows for audible feedback that can enhance the tactile experience. In contrast, the HMX FJ400 linear switch lacks a detailed description of its sound profile, making it difficult to compare directly. However, it is noted to provide a more balanced sound, indicating that it may produce a milder acoustic experience that could appeal to users seeking a more subdued typing environment. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will heavily rely on individual preferences for either a lively or more neutral auditory feedback.
When it comes to the feel of each switch, the Cloud - 63.5g is celebrated for its bouncy and creamy qualities. This means that users can expect a spring-like response with a smooth and buttery glide across the keys. The combination of these attributes makes typing a pleasure, delivering an engaging and responsive sensation that keeps the fingers eager to strike the next key. Unfortunately, the feel of the HMX FJ400 switch remains unspecified and cannot be compared directly at this time. For a newcomer, it's crucial to understand that the overall experience of typing will be shaped not just by sound but also by the tactile feedback from each switch, which varies greatly across different models.
In conclusion, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the HMX FJ400 linear switches cater to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. The Cloud - 63.5g distinguishes itself with its clacky sound and bouncy, creamy feel, creating an engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the FJ400 offers a more balanced sound, although the tactile feedback remains unspecified. For newcomers, this means they should prioritize what aspects they value most—whether it's lively auditory feedback that enhances their typing rhythm or a more moderate sound with potentially unknown tactile characteristics. Accordingly, trying both types may yield a better understanding of what aligns with personal typing preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the HMX FJ400 linear switches, consider your typing preferences and the overall experience you seek from your mechanical keyboard. If you enjoy a medium-heavy feel and are drawn to a clacky sound profile that delivers crisp, bright auditory feedback, the Cloud - 63.5g will likely suit you well. Its bouncy and creamy texture adds an element of excitement and smoothness, making it perfect for enthusiasts who appreciate a lively typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a more balanced sound profile and desire a versatile switch that still offers a satisfying typing feel, the FJ400 may be the better choice. Its 58-gram bottom-out force provides a comfortable and satisfying option for general use, whether you’re typing or gaming. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your specific needs for actuation force, sound preference, and feel, ensuring that your keyboard enhances your daily interactions.
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