HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Dustproof 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 Dustproof Brown offer unique typing experiences for enthusiasts. The Cloud - 63.5g, a linear switch, is favored for its clacky sound profile and heavier actuation force of 63.5g, providing a bright typing experience that is smooth and satisfying. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown, a tactile switch, boasts a quieter typing experience with no specific standout feature. While the Cloud - 63.5g is ideal for those who enjoy a bouncy and high-pitched typing experience, the Dustproof Brown may be more suitable for users seeking a subtle and creamy feel. 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
65g
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
PCB (5-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 Brown, the main difference lies in their top housing material. The Cloud - 63.5g utilizes a nylon top housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the Dustproof Brown's polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate material of the Dustproof Brown creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, both the Cloud - 63.5g and the Dustproof Brown feature nylon housings. This classic switch housing material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches share a similar sound profile when it comes to the bottom housing material, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of sound.
Overall, the choice between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Dustproof Brown housing materials boils down to personal preference regarding sound profiles. The Cloud - 63.5g offers a deeper and fuller sound due to its nylon top and bottom housings, providing a more rounded typing experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown with its polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those who prefer a more distinct typing experience. Both switches excel in their own ways, giving users the option to choose based on their sound preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch differ in various aspects. The Cloud - 63.5g switch has an actuation force of 56 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, also falling under the medium-heavy category. In comparison, the Cloud - 63.5g would be considered lighter in terms of actuation force while the Dustproof Brown switch is heavier in terms of bottom out force. Both switches offer a tactile typing experience, but the choice between them would ultimately depend on individual preferences for typing force. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Cloud - 63.5g, while individuals seeking a heavier bottom out force may opt for the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, slightly shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances for mechanical switches, with the Cloud - 63.5g being on the shorter end and the Dustproof Brown being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the Cloud - 63.5g for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Dustproof Brown with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and key feel.
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 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, offering a sharp and snappy typing experience that is bright and percussive. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch's sound profile is unknown. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch is described as bouncy and creamy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation with a smooth and buttery typing experience. The keys have a lively feel with a silky sensation, making typing a delightful experience. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch is unknown.
Overall, if you prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound profile with a bouncy and creamy feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch would be a great choice for you. However, if you're looking for a tactile switch with different sound and feel qualities, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch may offer something unique. Keep in mind that individual preferences play a significant role in choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, so trying out different switches in person is always recommended for the best results.
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 of 63.5 grams, then the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a slightly higher bottom out force of 65 grams and are not concerned about the sound profile, then the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch may be more suitable for your typing needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference for sound and feel while typing. Consider what type of typing experience you enjoy the most, and choose the switch that aligns with your preferences.
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