HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Zuoce Lavender
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Zuoce Lavender switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Zuoce Lavender mechanical keyboard switches, you are presented with two distinct options to consider. The Cloud - 63.5g offers a bouncy and creamy typing experience with a clacky sound profile, appealing to enthusiasts who enjoy a bright and tactile typing feel. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender switch boasts exceptional smoothness right out of the box, accompanied by a crisp and clacky sound signature for a satisfying keystroke experience. While the Cloud - 63.5g is known for its silky smooth feel and high-pitched sound, the Lavender stands out for its ease of pressing and distinctive typing feedback. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Zuoce Lavender lies in the material used for the top housing. The Cloud - 63.5g utilizes nylon for the top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Lavender employs POM for the top housing, creating a unique and pleasing sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. This contrast in sound profiles could potentially influence the typing experience for individuals who prefer a specific sound when typing.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Cloud - 63.5g and the Zuoce Lavender utilize nylon for this component. This choice of material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches. Nylon's ability to absorb sound effectively creates a duller and rounder sound, providing a distinct typing experience for users. While the bottom housing may not be as noticeable as the top housing in terms of sound, it still plays a significant role in enhancing the overall sound profile of the switch.
Overall, the choice of housing material for both the top and bottom components of a switch plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience. While the Cloud - 63.5g and the Zuoce Lavender share nylon bottom housings, their differentiation in top housing materials - nylon for the Cloud and POM for the Lavender - results in distinct sound profiles. Whether one prefers a deeper and fuller sound profile or a more unique and muted sound, the housing materials of these switches cater to varying preferences in typing experiences. Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housing materials contributes to the overall sound and feel of the switch when typing.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, it is evident that the Cloud - 63.5g switch is heavier in comparison. The Cloud - 63.5g switch has an actuation force of 56 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender switch has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as a medium-light option. The difference in force between the two switches offers users the choice between a lighter typing experience with the Lavender switch, ideal for long typing sessions, and a heavier typing feel with the Cloud - 63.5g switch, providing a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the preference for a lighter or heavier actuation force is subjective and depends on individual typing preferences.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Lavender switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Cloud - 63.5g switch. The Cloud - 63.5g switch provides a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a deeper key press. On the other hand, the Lavender switch offers a shorter travel distance, making it ideal for individuals looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. Both switches provide different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, catering to a variety of preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a shorter and quicker key press or a longer and more deliberate one.
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 Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch offers a distinct clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and percussive typing experience that is sure to satisfy enthusiasts who enjoy a bright and crisp sound. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch also features a clacky sound signature, but with a crispness that is attributed to its exceptional smoothness right out of the box. While both switches share the clacky characteristic, the Lavender switch may provide a more refined and satisfying sound due to its smoothness.
In terms of feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch is known for its bouncy and creamy typing experience, offering a spring-like feedback sensation along with a smooth and buttery feel. This combination creates a tactile and satisfying typing experience that many users enjoy. Conversely, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch is described as easy-to-press, providing gentle resistance during key presses and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. While the Cloud - 63.5g switch offers a bouncy and creamy feel, the Lavender switch focuses on effortless and comfortable typing with its low-impact and responsive feel.
Overall, both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Cloud - 63.5g switch provides a bright and clacky sound with a bouncy and creamy typing feel, appealing to enthusiasts who enjoy a lively and tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Lavender switch offers a smooth and easy-to-press typing feel with a crisp and clacky sound, catering to users who prioritize smoothness and responsiveness in their switches. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can achieve similar levels of satisfaction with either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, consider your typing preferences and priorities. If you prioritize a heavier bottom out force, a clacky sound profile, and a smooth typing experience, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, exceptional smoothness out of the box, and a satisfyingly clacky sound signature, the Zuoce Lavender switch might be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and what characteristics you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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