HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Cherry MX Black mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct characteristics that set them apart. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g is favored for its clacky sound profile and heavier actuation force, appealing to enthusiasts who prefer a bright typing experience with a silky smooth feel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black switches are known for their classic textured smoothness and deep sound profile, thanks to Cherry's Hyperglide tooling. While the HMX Cloud - 63.5g offers a bouncy and creamy typing experience, the Cherry MX Black provides a stiff and textured feel. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences and 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
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g and Cherry MX Black both feature nylon top and bottom housing materials, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. As a result, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either of these switches. The consistency in housing materials ensures that the overall typing experience remains consistent across both switches.
Despite the similarities in housing materials, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and Cherry MX Black switches may still exhibit subtle differences in sound and feel due to variations in design and construction. The qualities of the top and bottom housing materials may be more pronounced in one switch compared to the other, leading to slight differences in the overall typing experience. These nuances contribute to the unique feel and sound signature of each switch, allowing users to choose based on their preference for a particular typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and Cherry MX Black switches may come down to personal preference regarding the specific sound and feel desired during typing. Both switches offer a deep and full sound profile, thanks to their nylon housing materials, but subtle differences in design and construction may lead to variations in the typing experience. While users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel when using either switch, the individual characteristics of each switch may appeal to different preferences among typists. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on the user's specific typing preferences and priorities.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, it is evident that there are notable differences between the two. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g has a lighter actuation force of 56 grams compared to the MX Black's 60 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes on the Cloud switch. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cloud switch requires 63.5 grams compared to the MX Black's 80 grams, making the MX Black a heavier option overall. The lighter actuation force of the Cloud switch may appeal to users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, while the heavier bottom out force of the MX Black may suit those looking for a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, we find that the Cloud has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.9 mm compared to the 4 mm travel distance of the MX Black. While the difference in travel distance may seem minimal, it can have an impact on the typing experience and personal preference. The Cloud - 63.5g offers a quicker actuation due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and deliberate keystroke for those who prefer a bit more depth in their typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference and typing style.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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 typing experience, producing sharp and bright sounds with each key press. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black switch provides a low-pitched sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. The sound produced by each switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch is described as bouncy and creamy, providing a spring-like feedback and a smooth, buttery typing sensation. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black switch is characterized as textured and stiff, offering noticeable friction when pressed and requiring a higher amount of force to actuate. Users who enjoy a lively and elastic feel may prefer the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch, while those seeking a more tactile and structured typing experience may lean towards the Cherry MX Black switch.
Overall, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch is best suited for enthusiasts who crave a bright and clacky typing experience with a silky smooth feel, while the Cherry MX Black switch caters to users looking for a classic textured smoothness with a deep sound profile. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual preferences and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a keyboard switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a bright and clacky sound profile with a silky smooth feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a classic textured smoothness with a deep sound profile, the Cherry MX Black linear switch would be more suited to your preference. The decision between these two switches ultimately comes down to your personal typing style and the typing experience you are looking for.
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