HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch offer distinctly different typing experiences. The Cloud - 63.5g is favored for its bouncy and clacky sound profile, providing a bright typing experience that enthusiasts enjoy. With a smooth feel and a 63.5g actuation force, this switch is ideal for those who prefer a slightly heavier keypress. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue switch is known for its clicky feedback, but lacks specific standout features. While the Cloud - 63.5g offers a unique typing experience with its creamy and high-pitched feel, the Cream Blue switch may appeal to users looking for a traditional clicky switch. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing material for both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Cream Blue switches is nylon, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The similarities in housing material suggest that both switches would likely offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
However, where the switches may differ is in the casing of the top and bottom housing. While both switches have nylon top and bottom housings, if the top and bottom housings are different for a given switch, the qualities each housing material brings to the switch will be split between the two parts. The bottom housing typically has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, whereas the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This difference in housing arrangement could potentially lead to variations in typing experience between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Cream Blue switches.
Overall, the similarities in the nylon housing material used for both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Cream Blue switches suggest that users can expect a comparable sound profile and typing experience from both switches. The differences may lie in how the housing materials are arranged within each switch, potentially impacting the bottom-out sound and feel versus the sound upon key release. Whether these subtle differences have a significant impact on user experience would likely depend on personal preference and typing habits.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, we find that the Cloud - 63.5g has a slightly lighter actuation force of 56 grams compared to the Cream Blue's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cloud - 63.5g requires 63.5 grams while the Cream Blue requires 65 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of force required. The slight difference in actuation force may result in a slightly lighter feel when typing on the Cream Blue, while the Cloud - 63.5g may offer a slightly heavier typing experience when bottoming out. Overall, those who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Cream Blue, while those who prefer a heavier bottom out force may opt for the Cloud - 63.5g. Ultimately, both switches provide similar results and cater to different preferences in typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches are relatively close in terms of travel distance, with the Cream Blue being slightly longer. A difference of 0.1 mm may not be noticeable to some users, but for those who are more sensitive to keypress feel, it could make a difference in their typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. If you prioritize faster response times and prefer a shorter travel distance, the Cloud - 63.5g switch may be the better option for you. However, if you enjoy a more pronounced keypress with a bit more depth, the Cream Blue switch with its slightly longer travel distance may be more to your liking.
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 Cream Blue 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
The Cloud - 63.5g linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy typing experience that enthusiasts enjoy. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch's sound profile is unknown, so it's hard to compare in terms of sound.
Moving on to feel, the Cloud - 63.5g switch offers a bouncy sensation with a smooth and silky typing experience, thanks to its heavier actuation force. Users can expect a spring-like feedback and a buttery feel, making typing a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Cream Blue switch is unknown, so it's challenging to compare the two in terms of tactile feedback.
Overall, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch stands out for its clacky sound profile and bouncy, smooth feel, providing enthusiasts with a vibrant and comfortable typing experience. While the sound and feel of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch remain unknown, it's likely that users will get similar results in terms of sound and feel as the Cloud - 63.5g switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the overall typing experience that each user desires.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a heavier switch with a clacky sound profile and smooth feel, the Cloud - 63.5g would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky switch with a higher bottom out force, the Cream Blue might be more to your liking. Consider factors such as sound, feel, and the overall typing experience to determine which switch aligns best with your preferences. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch. Happy typing!
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