HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Cold Plum mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that they offer distinct characteristics catering to different preferences. The Cloud - 63.5g is praised for its clacky sound profile and heavier actuation force, providing a bright and bouncy typing experience loved by enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Cold Plum stands out for its thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, thanks to its fully nylon construction. While both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, the Cloud - 63.5g is known for its creamy and high-pitched feel, whereas the Cold Plum is appreciated for its unique and enjoyable sound. 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
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Nylon
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
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Cold Plum, both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This commonality means that typing on either switch will elicit a similar sound profile - deeper and fuller due to the softer nature of nylon which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. The duller and rounder sound created by nylon is a key feature of both switches, making them ideal for those who enjoy a quieter typing experience.
While both switches share the same nylon material for their housing, the slight differences in design may impact the overall typing experience. The Cloud - 63.5g's housing may have a slightly different shape or thickness compared to the Cold Plum, which could affect the way the sound is produced when typing on the switch. Additionally, the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel, as well as the top housing on the sound when releasing a key, may vary slightly between the two switches due to potential design variations.
Overall, the utilization of nylon as the housing material for both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Cold Plum ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile and tactile feel. The classic nature of nylon as a switch housing material means that regardless of the specific switch being used, typists can expect a deeper, fuller sound that is quieter and more subdued compared to switches using harder plastics. Whether one chooses the Cloud - 63.5g or the Cold Plum, the use of nylon ensures a reliable and enjoyable typing experience for those who appreciate a softer and more muffled sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it is evident that the Cloud - 63.5g is lighter in both categories. The actuation force of the Cloud - 63.5g is 56 grams, while the Cold Plum requires 60 grams. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Cloud - 63.5g is 63.5 grams, whereas the Cold Plum demands 70 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, but the Cloud - 63.5g is slightly lighter in terms of force required for both actuation and bottoming out. This means that users typing on the Cloud - 63.5g may experience a slightly lighter touch compared to the Cold Plum switch. Depending on individual preferences, some may find the Cloud - 63.5g more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the heavier feel of the Cold Plum for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Cold Plum has a shorter travel distance compared to the Cloud - 63.5g. The 3.9 mm travel distance of the Cloud - 63.5g falls in between the traditional 4.0 mm and shallower 3.0 mm, offering a balanced response. On the other hand, the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Cold Plum provides a quicker response time preferred by gamers. If you prioritize faster response times, the Cold Plum would be the better option. However, if you prefer a deeper keypress, the Cloud - 63.5g would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing or gaming 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 Outemu Cold Plum comes in at $3.10 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch offers a clacky and high-pitched profile that provides a sharp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum switch is known for its thocky sound, which is unique and satisfying. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Cloud switch being more crisp and bright, while the Cold Plum switch delivers a deeper and more resonant sound.
In terms of feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch is described as bouncy and creamy, providing a spring-like feedback and a smooth typing experience. This switch offers a lively and buttery sensation when typing, allowing for effortless keystrokes. The Outemu Cold Plum switch, although lacking detailed descriptions in this category, is likely to provide a similarly smooth and satisfying typing feel due to its nylon construction and overall design.
Overall, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and Outemu Cold Plum switches both offer unique and enjoyable typing experiences with their distinct sound profiles and smooth keystrokes. While the Cloud switch caters to enthusiasts who prefer a clacky and bright typing experience, the Cold Plum switch is a great choice for those seeking a thocky and satisfying sound. Depending on personal preferences and typing habits, both switches can provide a pleasant and responsive typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound profile with a bouncy and creamy typing feel, the Cloud - 63.5g may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a thocky sound profile and a smooth keystroke experience, the Cold Plum switch might be more suited to your liking. Ultimately, the decision should be based on personal preference and the typing experience you desire.
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