HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering which mechanical keyboard switch to choose, two popular options to compare and contrast are the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Cherry Nixie, both linear switches with their own unique characteristics. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g is favored for its clacky sound profile and smooth typing experience, making it ideal for enthusiasts who appreciate a bright and bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie is known for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, blending tradition with modern innovation. While the Cloud - 63.5g offers a creamy and high-pitched typing experience, the Nixie provides a thocky and low-pitched feel. Ultimately, the decision on which switch to choose will depend on personal preferences and typing style. 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
63.5g
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
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Cherry Nixie, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon as their housing material. Nylon is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, making both switches ideal for users who appreciate a more muted and rounded sound. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a unique typing experience for both switches.
One key difference between the two switches lies in their housing design. While both the Cloud - 63.5g and the Nixie use nylon for their top and bottom housings, the distribution of qualities between the top and bottom may vary. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, will be more pronounced in the bottom housing of each switch. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key, showcasing how subtle differences in housing design can affect the overall typing experience.
Overall, despite any potential differences in the distribution of qualities between the top and bottom housings, users can expect a similar typing experience from both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Cherry Nixie. The utilization of nylon as a switch housing material ensures that both switches will provide a deep and full sound profile, creating a satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a quieter and more rounded sound. Whether typing on the Cloud - 63.5g or the Nixie, users can appreciate the softness of nylon and its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a more pleasant typing experience overall.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it is evident that the Cloud - 63.5g is lighter in terms of actuation force at 56 grams compared to the Nixie's 63.5 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cloud - 63.5g requires 63.5 grams while the Nixie needs 80 grams, making the Nixie the heavier option overall. The lighter actuation force of the Cloud - 63.5g may appeal to those looking for a more effortless typing experience or prolonged gaming sessions, whereas the heavier actuation force and bottom out force of the Nixie may be favored by users seeking a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and feedback.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Cherry Nixie linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both fall within the range of common travel distances for switches, with the Nixie being just slightly longer than the Cloud. Gamers may appreciate the slightly shorter travel distance of the Cloud for quicker response times during intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keystroke may opt for the slightly longer travel distance of the Nixie. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and responsiveness.
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 Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.15.
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, creating a sharp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie switch provides a thocky and low-pitched sound, giving a deep and rich tone to each keypress. Depending on personal preference, the Cloud - 63.5g switch may be more suited for those who enjoy a bright and crisp sound, while the Nixie switch offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch is known for its bouncy and creamy sensation, providing a spring-like feedback and smooth typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie switch is described as textured, meaning it may have noticeable friction when pressed. This difference in feel can impact the overall typing experience, with the Cloud - 63.5g switch offering a lively and silky feel, while the Nixie switch may provide a more tactile and textured typing experience.
Considering the subjective qualities of sound and feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch and the Cherry Nixie switch offer distinct typing experiences. The Cloud - 63.5g switch excels in providing a bright and clacky sound with a bouncy and creamy feel, appealing to enthusiasts looking for a lively and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Nixie switch boasts a thocky and low-pitched sound with a textured feel, catering to those who prefer a deeper and more tactile typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, as both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In summarizing the comparison between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a clacky, high-pitched sound profile with a bouncy or creamy feel, then the Cloud - 63.5g may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a thocky, low-pitched sound profile with a textured feel, then the Cherry Nixie switch would be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision on which switch to choose will depend on your typing style and what kind of typing experience you find most enjoyable.
Mentioned in this article
