HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Outemu Lime (V3)
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Lime (V3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 63.5g, a linear switch, to the Outemu Lime, a tactile switch, it's important to consider the unique qualities of each. 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 smooth and satisfying feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime stands out for its lightweight nature, approachable tactility, and silent operation, making it an ideal choice for tactile fans looking for a feather-light typing experience with a subtle touch of tactility. Both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Lime switches both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housing, resulting in a similar typing experience. Nylon is known for its softer composition, which helps absorb sound and create a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing. This means that whether you are using the Cloud - 63.5g or the Lime switches, you can expect a more muted and rounder sound compared to switches made with harder plastics.
However, despite both switches using the same material for their housing, there may be slight differences in the overall typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing, which include impacting the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, may vary slightly between the Cloud - 63.5g and the Lime switches. This could result in a subtle difference in the tactile feedback and overall typing feel between the two switches, even though they share the same housing material for both the top and bottom.
In conclusion, while the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Lime switches are the same, there may be minor nuances in the typing experience due to differences in the bottom housing. Both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the nylon housing, but the tactile feedback and overall typing feel may vary slightly. Ultimately, whether you choose the Cloud - 63.5g or the Lime switches, you can expect a similar typing experience with a focus on creating a duller and rounder sound profile.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch differ significantly. The Cloud - 63.5g has a higher actuation force of 56 grams compared to the Lime's 35 grams, making it a heavier switch in terms of initial force required to trigger a keystroke. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Cloud - 63.5g is also higher at 63.5 grams, while the Lime's bottom out force is 45 grams, indicating that the Cloud - 63.5g provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier feel when fully pressed. The Lime, on the other hand, offers a lighter typing experience with less force needed for both actuation and bottoming out. Overall, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g is the heavier of the two switches, providing users with a stronger push feel, while the Outemu Lime is lighter and more suitable for prolonged typing sessions or gaming.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Outemu Lime tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the HMX Cloud - 63.5g has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Outemu Lime. If you prefer a switch with a deeper key press and more tactile feedback, you may lean towards the HMX Cloud - 63.5g. On the other hand, if you prefer a shorter travel distance for quicker response times, the Outemu Lime may be the better option for you. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, so the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference.
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 Lime (V3) 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 offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, which produces sharp and snappy sounds when pressed. This type of sound is crisp, bright, and percussive, appealing to enthusiasts who enjoy a vibrant typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime switch is known for its neutral and muted sound, providing a softer and quieter typing experience due to its design. Both switches offer distinct sound qualities, catering to different preferences based on the level of noise desired during typing sessions.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch is described as bouncy and creamy, offering a spring-like feedback sensation with a smooth and buttery typing experience. This switch provides a lively and silky feel, making each keystroke effortless and enjoyable for users. In contrast, the Outemu Lime switch is known for its mild, feathery, subtle, and polished feel, delivering a gentle and light typing experience with reduced finger fatigue. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback, suiting varying typing preferences and comfort levels for users.
Overall, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch provide users with distinct sound and feel experiences, catering to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Cloud - 63.5g switch offers a clacky sound profile and bouncy, creamy feel for a vibrant typing experience, the Outemu Lime switch presents a muted sound and mild, feathery feel for a quieter and gentle typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing comfort, users can choose between these two switches to enhance their overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, you should consider your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a heavier typing experience with a clacky sound profile and a silky smooth feel, then the Cloud - 63.5g would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force, a muted sound profile, and a feathery light typing experience with a touch of tactility, then the Lime switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to whether you prioritize a brighter typing experience or a lighter, more understated feel. So, consider your typing habits and preferences to choose the switch that best suits your needs.
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