HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Dustproof 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 Dustproof Blue clicky switch offer unique experiences for different types of users. The Cloud - 63.5g is favored by enthusiasts for its clacky sound profile and heavier actuation force, providing a bright typing experience with a smooth feel. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue switch offers a clicky typing experience with no specific standout feature. While the Cloud - 63.5g is ideal for those who enjoy a bouncy, clacky, creamy, and high-pitched typing experience, the Dustproof Blue switch may appeal to users looking for a more standard mechanical keyboard switch option. 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
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 Dustproof Blue, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that both switches will offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic properties. The absorption of sound by nylon also contributes to a duller and rounder sound upon typing. As such, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either of these switches.
However, the top housing materials of the two switches differ, with the Cloud - 63.5g featuring a nylon top housing while the Dustproof Blue utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. The nylon top housing of the Cloud - 63.5g will provide a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its bottom housing. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Blue will create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it suitable for switches with RGB lighting, adding a visual element to the typing experience.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches like the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Dustproof Blue can significantly impact the typing experience. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing for a similar typing feel, the difference in top housing materials results in distinct sound profiles. Users looking for a deeper and fuller sound may prefer the Cloud - 63.5g with its nylon top and bottom housing, while those seeking a sharper and crisper sound may opt for the Dustproof Blue with its polycarbonate top housing. Ultimately, the housing materials play a crucial role in defining the overall typing experience of each switch.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch offer some interesting comparisons. The Cloud - 63.5g has a lighter actuation force of 56 grams compared to the Dustproof Blue's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cloud - 63.5g requires 63.5 grams, while the Dustproof Blue needs 65 grams. Overall, both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of force required. Those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions may lean towards the Dustproof Blue, while individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Cloud - 63.5g. Regardless, users can expect similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces with these two switches.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch is 3.9 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Cloud - 63.5g offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Dustproof Blue switch. The difference of 0.1 mm may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Cloud - 63.5g with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a deeper key press might lean towards the Dustproof Blue switch. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
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 Dustproof 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 HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This satisfies enthusiasts who prefer a bright typing experience with its high-pitched sound characteristics. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch's sound qualities are unknown, making it difficult to directly compare in this aspect.
Moving on to feel, the Cloud - 63.5g switch offers a bouncy and creamy typing experience. The keys provide a spring-like and elastic feedback, giving a lively bounce when pressed. Additionally, the creamy sensation of these switches allows for a smooth and buttery typing experience, resembling the effortless glide of fingers across the keys. Unfortunately, information about the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch is unavailable, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison in this regard.
Considering all available information, it is clear that the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch excels in both sound and feel aspects, offering a unique typing experience favored by enthusiasts. While the qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch remain unknown, it is likely that users seeking a similar bright and tactile experience may find satisfaction in this switch as well. Ultimately, personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, so testing out different options is recommended to find the perfect fit for individual typing preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a heavier linear switch with a clacky sound profile and a silky smooth feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g would be a great choice for enthusiasts who enjoy a bright typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch could be the one for you. Consider your typing preferences and the type of sound and feel you are looking for when deciding between these two switches. Ultimately, choosing the right switch depends on your personal typing style and preferences.
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