HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Crystal Brown offer distinct typing experiences. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g, a linear switch, is favored for its bouncy, clacky, creamy, and high-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for enthusiasts who appreciate a bright typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown, a tactile switch, provides a different feel with its undefined best-known feature. While the HMX Cloud - 63.5g offers a silky smooth typing experience, the Crystal Brown switch may appeal to those looking for a different tactile feedback. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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 Crystal Brown, we can see significant differences in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Cloud - 63.5g utilizes a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown features a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffer plastic composition. While both materials offer unique sound qualities, the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, we find that both the Cloud - 63.5g and the Crystal Brown utilize nylon for this component. This results in a similar deep and full sound profile for both switches, as nylon's softer plastic composition absorbs sound effectively, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing. Despite their similarities in bottom housing material, the switches may still offer distinct typing experiences due to differences in other components or design elements. Overall, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a consistent sound profile and typing feel across both switches.
In considering the impact of having different top and bottom housing materials for a switch, it becomes clear that each material brings unique qualities to the typing experience. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate for the top housing can have a noticeable effect on the overall sound profile and typing feel of a switch. Ultimately, the decision between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Crystal Brown will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics in mechanical keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it is clear that the Cloud - 63.5g is the heavier option. The Cloud - 63.5g has an actuation force of 56 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, positioning it as a medium-light switch. The actuation force of the Cloud - 63.5g is higher than that of the Crystal Brown, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. However, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Cloud - 63.5g being more suitable for individuals who prefer a heavier actuation force, while the Crystal Brown is better suited for those who prefer a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. While the Cloud - 63.5g offers a more compact and responsive feel, the Crystal Brown provides a slightly deeper key press experience. For those who prioritize speed and quick response times, the Cloud - 63.5g may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more deliberate and tactile typing experience may lean towards the Outemu Crystal Brown. Ultimately, both switches offer unique travel distances that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them would depend on the user's specific typing style and preferences.
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 Crystal Brown 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
Overall, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile and bouncy, creamy feel. This switch provides a sharp and snappy typing experience with a bright sound and a smooth sensation when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch does not have any specific information available on its sound or feel qualities. Therefore, it is difficult to directly compare the two switches in terms of subjective qualities. However, if you are looking for a switch with a crisp sound and lively feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch would be a great option to consider. If you are interested in exploring different tactile switches, the Outemu Crystal Brown may offer a unique typing experience. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel when typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that provides a bright and clacky typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, then the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and are seeking a tactile switch that offers a creamy and smooth typing feel, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in sound, feel, and typing experience. Consider your typing style and preferences carefully to make the best choice for your needs.
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