HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. HMX Lotus (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, switch choice can significantly affect your typing experience, and two noteworthy options on the market are the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the HMX Lotus (Heavy), both of which are linear switches yet offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g is celebrated for its clacky sound profile and bouncy feel, making it an enticing option for enthusiasts who crave a bright and engaging typing experience. With a smooth actuation and a heavier weight, it delivers a tactile pleasure that many users find appealing. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus (Heavy), with its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g, provides a super bouncy sensation with a bright and resonant sound, enhancing the delight of each keystroke. While both switches promise a satisfying linear experience, their unique auditory and tactile qualities serve different types of users, whether you lean towards an energetic clacky fill or a more subdued yet springy 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
55g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) exhibit remarkable similarities, particularly in their use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings. Both switches leverage the classic properties of nylon, known for producing a deep and full sound profile during use. The inherent characteristics of nylon, being a softer plastic, allow it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, which results in a more subdued and rounded auditory experience. This shared material composition means that users of either switch can expect similar acoustic performance, making both options appealing for those seeking a certain audio aesthetic while typing.
While the attributes of both the Cloud - 63.5g and the Lotus (Heavy) switches are influenced by their nylon housings, their performance nuances may be noticed upon interaction. The bottom housing primarily dictates the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback upon pressing the keys, while the top housing is responsible for the release sound when the key is lifted. Since both models utilize nylon for their housings, the overall typing experience, including the sound and feel associated with both pressing down and releasing the keys, would be markedly similar. This can lead users to have a consistent experience regardless of which model they choose, as the nylon material harmonizes across both layers.
In conclusion, despite any differences that may exist between the models themselves in terms of other features like switch design or actuation force, the shared nylon housings of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) ensure they deliver comparable acoustic profiles and tactile sensations. Users can anticipate a cohesive experience, characterized by the rich, deep tones that nylon brings to the table. This shared foundation solidifies the idea that both switches are designed with similar auditory and tactile objectives in mind, making them suitable options for enthusiasts who value a sound profile that sits on the deeper end of the spectrum.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch to the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, we see slight differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Cloud switch has an actuation force of 56 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Lotus (Heavy) requires a slightly lighter actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, placing it in the medium range. Consequently, the Cloud switch is marginally heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces. This means that while both switches provide a reasonably similar typing experience, those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Lotus, which could favor longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. Conversely, the Cloud's heavier feel may be appealing to users who appreciate a more substantial push when typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, we see a notable difference. The Cloud - 63.5g features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Lotus (Heavy) has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that if you're looking for a more responsive feel, the Lotus (Heavy) might be more appealing due to its shorter travel distance, which can facilitate quicker keystrokes, particularly favored by gamers. On the other hand, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a fuller keypress experience. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches may come down to whether you value speed and responsiveness or a more traditional, deeper feel in your 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 HMX Lotus (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus (Heavy) for $2.99.
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 switch stands out with its clacky and high-pitched profile. This characteristic delivers a sharp and snappy audio when each key is pressed, resulting in a bright and percussive typing experience that many enthusiasts appreciate. It is especially appealing for users who prefer a more defined auditory feedback instead of a softer, richer sound. In contrast, while the sound characteristics of the Lotus (Heavy) switch are not specified, the expectation of a bright, resonant sound suggests it may offer a similarly stimulating auditory experience. Therefore, if you have a preference for higher-pitched sounds, you can expect to derive enjoyment from either option, although the HMX Cloud - 63.5g is explicitly known to deliver that clacky profile.
In terms of feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch offers a notably bouncy, spring-like feedback that gives each keystroke a lively responsiveness. Coupled with its creamy texture, users can glide their fingers across the keys seamlessly, enjoying a silky-smooth typing experience that makes every press feel effortless. This switch design is perfect for individuals who prioritize a tactile lift and plush feedback in their typing. On the other hand, the feel characteristics of the Lotus (Heavy) switch remain unknown, leaving a gap in comparing their tactile qualities. However, if the Lotus also emphasizes a luxury feel, it’s possible that users may find enjoyment in both switches.
In conclusion, while the HMX Cloud - 63.5g is well-defined in both sound and feel, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch presents an air of uncertainty. The Cloud switch offers a vibrant and engaging experience, thanks to its clacky sound and bouncy, creamy feel, which assumes identity in a typing environment focused on auditory and tactile satisfaction. Without clear descriptors for the Lotus (Heavy), potential users may need to explore it further to discern its qualities. Nevertheless, both switches cater to enthusiasts looking for a compelling linear switch experience, with the Cloud switch providing more explicit characteristics to guide your choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the experience you seek from your keyboard. If you enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback along with a medium-heavy feel, the Cloud - 63.5g is an excellent option. Its clacky sound profile gives a lively and engaging typing experience, making it ideal for those who appreciate an exciting tactile interaction. The smooth and bouncy feedback adds to this enjoyment, creating an almost playful response with each keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter touch while still enjoying a delightful bounce, the Lotus (Heavy) would be the better choice. Although it has a lower bottom-out force at 62.5 grams, it retains a bright, resonant sound that provides a satisfying auditory experience. Its super bouncy characteristic ensures that every keypress feels reactive and responsive, making it an enticing option for both casual typists and gamers looking for a springy feel. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you prioritize a clackier, richer sound and a firmer actuation or a lighter, more buoyant experience that feels equally rewarding.
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