HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Durock Mamba
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Durock Mamba switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Durock Mamba mechanical keyboard switches, you have some interesting options to consider. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g offers a clacky sound profile and a heavier feel, catering to enthusiasts who enjoy a bright typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba pays tribute to Kobe Bryant with smooth linear switches that provide a gliding typing sensation and a rich auditory experience. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and appeal 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Durock Mamba, one significant difference lies in their top housing materials. The Cloud - 63.5g utilizes nylon for its top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the plastic. On the other hand, the Mamba features a unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE for its top housing, creating a brighter sound profile that is not particularly sharp. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly impact the typing experience for users of these switches.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, both switches also offer distinct qualities. The Cloud - 63.5g sticks to nylon for its bottom housing, which continues to enhance the deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Conversely, the Mamba incorporates a POM bottom housing, leading to a more muted and deeper sound profile compared to the top housing. This difference in bottom housing materials can affect the overall sound and feel of the switch when typing, providing users with a variety of options based on their preference for sound profile.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Durock Mamba, users can still achieve similar results in terms of sound profile. While the Cloud - 63.5g's nylon top and bottom housing create a more rounded and dull sound, the Mamba's unique Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing paired with the POM bottom housing offer a brighter yet deeper sound profile. Ultimately, both switches provide users with a range of sound options to choose from, allowing for a customized typing experience based on individual preferences.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch reveals some key differences. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch has a lighter actuation force of 56 grams compared to the Mamba, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g is slightly heavier at 63.5 grams, while the Mamba has a bottom out force of 60 grams. This makes the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch slightly heavier overall. The lighter actuation force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g may appeal to those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, while the heavier bottom out force of the Mamba may be favored by those seeking a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Durock Mamba linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Cloud - 63.5g has a slightly longer travel distance than the Mamba, making it a better choice for those who prefer a bit more depth in their key presses. On the other hand, the Mamba offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular in the market. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience you are looking for.
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 Durock Mamba has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mamba for $5.17.
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 is characterized by a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, offering a sharp and bright typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba switch provides a neutral and thocky sound, giving a more moderate and deep auditory sensation. Depending on personal preference, the HMX Cloud switch may appeal to those who enjoy a crisp and percussive sound, while the Durock Mamba switch caters to those seeking a rich and satisfying typing sound. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch offers a bouncy and creamy typing experience, providing a lively and smooth sensation while typing. In contrast, the Durock Mamba switch delivers a mild and polished feel, offering a gentle and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Those who appreciate a spring-like feedback and buttery keystrokes may prefer the HMX Cloud switch, while individuals looking for a more approachable and sleek typing experience may lean towards the Durock Mamba switch.
Overall, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and Durock Mamba switches have their own unique sound and feel characteristics, catering to different preferences and typing styles. While the HMX Cloud switch offers a clacky sound and bouncy feel, the Durock Mamba switch provides a thocky sound and polished feel. Depending on whether you prioritize sharp sound and lively feel or deep sound and refined feel, either switch can enhance your typing experience. Additionally, considering other factors such as keycap and keyboard choices can further customize and fine-tune the overall typing sensation to suit your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a bright and clacky sound profile with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g would be a good choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and creamy typing sensation with a medium bottom out force, the Durock Mamba would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize sound or feel in your mechanical keyboard switches. Happy typing!
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