HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. HMX Lucky
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the HMX Lucky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the HMX Lucky stand out, each catering to different preferences among typing enthusiasts. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g, with its clacky sound profile and heavier actuation force, delivers a bright and engaging typing experience, making it ideal for those who revel in the auditory feedback of their keystrokes. Its silky smooth feel is complemented by a unique combination of bouncy, clacky, creamy, and high-pitched characteristics. In contrast, the HMX Lucky switches feature a softer, glittery nylon housing, offering a lightweight and deeply satisfying typing experience that leans more towards a neutral feel. This makes them an excellent choice for users who prefer a quieter, more subdued typing environment without sacrificing tactile satisfaction. Ultimately, while both switches cater to linear enthusiasts, they provide distinctly different experiences to suit varied typing styles. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
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 double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the HMX Lucky exhibit a remarkable similarity, as both switches utilize nylon for both their top and bottom housings. This shared use of nylon, a classic housing material in switch designs, contributes significantly to their acoustic and tactile characteristics. When typing on switches made with nylon, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile, as this material has the ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. The result is a duller, rounder auditory experience, which many users find appealing for both gaming and typing.
Given that both the Cloud - 63.5g and the Lucky share identical nylon materials in their top and bottom housings, the performance and sound qualities from one switch to the other will likely produce similar results. Each switch will retain the hallmark softness of nylon, leading to a comparably muted sound when a key is pressed or released. Since the sound absorption qualities of the nylon are consistent across both switches, users can expect a satisfying auditory experience, regardless of which switch they choose, as both will evoke that pleasant tone synonymous with nylon construction.
However, while the housing materials themselves may be the same, any differences in design or manufacturing processes could still lead to subtle variations in feel and sound. For example, the internal components or the actuation point could differ slightly between the two models, influencing the bottom-out feel and sound experience. Nevertheless, given their compatible materials, both the Cloud - 63.5g and the Lucky are poised to deliver a fulfilling typing experience, anchored by the soft and sound-absorbing properties of nylon that are consistent across both models.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces highlight their distinct typing experiences. The Cloud switch has a heavier actuation force of 56 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which contributes to a more substantial typing feel, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push. In contrast, the Lucky switch features a noticeably lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it more suitable for users looking for a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Consequently, while the Cloud switch is the heavier option, providing greater resistance, the Lucky switch is the lighter alternative, offering a softer keystroke. These variations cater to different preferences, with the Cloud providing a firmer response and the Lucky emphasizing ease of use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch, we find that the Cloud switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, whereas the Lucky switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This variance indicates that the Lucky switch may offer a more responsive feel suitable for gamers who prefer quicker actuation. Conversely, the Cloud switch, with its longer travel distance, may deliver a more substantial keypress experience for users who favor deeper key travel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference; if you prefer a swifter response, the HMX Lucky is the better option, while the HMX Cloud will appeal to those who enjoy a little more depth in their keystrokes.
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 Lucky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lucky 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
The sound profile of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch is characterized by its clacky nature, producing a sharp and bright auditory experience when pressed. This high-pitched quality contributes to a typing sound that is crisp and percussive, making it an excellent choice for individuals who appreciate a more vibrant acoustic feedback from their keyboard. In contrast, the HMX Lucky switch does not have a defined sound profile provided, so it’s difficult to make a direct comparison. However, given that the Lucky is described as being softer, its sound might lean towards a more muted or neutral tonality compared to the sharper notes of the Cloud - 63.5g.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch offers a bouncy and creamy tactile sensation. This provides a spring-like feedback that is very responsive, allowing for an energetic typing experience that is both lively and smooth. The creamy texture further enhances the feel, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys, creating a consistent and satisfying experience with every keystroke. On the other hand, the feel of the HMX Lucky switch remains unspecified, but its lightweight nature implies a more gentle keystroke, which could translate to a softer and more accommodating touch, although without the specific descriptors, it’s challenging to assert how it measures against the Cloud.
In summary, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch excels in providing a clacky sound profile and a bouncy, creamy feel, making it ideal for typing enthusiasts who enjoy an energetic and bright auditory and tactile experience. The HMX Lucky switch, while lacking a defined sound profile and tactile descriptors, offers a lightweight experience that may appeal to those seeking a softer typing sensation. It's fair to say that while both switches can yield satisfying results in their own right, the Cloud - 63.5g will likely satisfy those who prioritize auditory feedback and tactile response, while the Lucky might serve those looking for a quieter and perhaps gentler experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended usage. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a clacky sound profile that delivers a bright and lively experience, the Cloud - 63.5g is an excellent choice. It’s ideal for those who enjoy the tactile feedback of a bouncy and creamy switch, providing a satisfying rebound and smooth glide with each keystroke. This switch is particularly suited for enthusiasts or individuals who type extensively and appreciate the auditory and tactile responsiveness it offers. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch that promotes a more neutral and subtle experience, the Lucky switch might be the better option. Its 43-gram bottom-out force allows for quicker actuation, making it ideal for gaming or extended typing sessions where fatigue may be a concern. Additionally, its softer nylon housing contributes to a deeply satisfying feel, perfect for those who enjoy a more forgiving typing experience. Ultimately, consider your personal typing style and sound preference when making your decision, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different needs.
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