HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Outemu Dustproof Red
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Dustproof Red mechanical keyboard switches, there are key differences to consider. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g is a linear switch that offers a unique clacky sound profile and a heavier actuation force of 63.5g, ideal for enthusiasts seeking a bright typing experience with a smooth feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Red is also a linear switch but lacks specific standout features, providing a more straightforward typing experience. While the HMX Cloud - 63.5g may appeal to those who prefer a bouncy, clacky, creamy, and high-pitched switch, the Outemu Dustproof Red offers a quieter and simpler typing experience. 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
60g
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 Dustproof Red, one key difference is the top housing material used. The Cloud - 63.5g utilizes nylon for its top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly impact the typing experience for users, with nylon providing a more rounded sound while polycarbonate offers a more resonant sound with RGB lighting capabilities.
Moving on to the bottom housing material, both the Cloud - 63.5g and the Dustproof Red utilize nylon for this component, resulting in a similar typing experience. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound effectively, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures that users will experience a consistent sound and feel when typing on either switch, with the nylon contributing to a duller and rounder sound profile overall.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for a switch can significantly impact the sound profile and typing experience. While the Cloud - 63.5g and Dustproof Red share a common bottom housing material in nylon, their top housing materials differ, leading to distinct sound profiles. The use of polycarbonate in the Dustproof Red's top housing creates a sharper and clearer sound compared to the Cloud's nylon top housing. Understanding the qualities that each housing material brings can help users determine which switch best suits their preferences for sound and typing feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, it is evident that the Cloud - 63.5g is the heavier option. The actuation force of the Cloud - 63.5g is 56 grams, while the Dustproof Red requires only 45 grams for actuation. Both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Cloud - 63.5g requiring 63.5 grams and the Dustproof Red needing 60 grams. This means that while typing on the Dustproof Red may feel lighter and require less force to start a keystroke, both switches will provide a similar typing experience once the keys are fully pressed down. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch is 3.9 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the HMX Cloud offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Dustproof Red. Generally, a difference of 0.1 mm may not be significant in terms of feel, but it could affect preferences based on individual typing or gaming styles. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Dustproof Red being closer to the standard 4.0 mm distance. Gamers looking for faster response times may lean towards the Cloud, while those who prefer a deeper keypress may find the Dustproof Red more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing experience.
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 Red 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 offers a clacky sound profile with a high-pitched and sharp sound when pressed. This switch provides a bright typing experience that appeals to enthusiasts looking for a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. Additionally, it offers a bouncy and creamy feel, providing a spring-like feedback with a smooth and buttery typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch does not have specific descriptions available for its sound or feel qualities. It is important to note that while the Cloud - 63.5g switch excels in both sound and feel aspects, individual preferences may vary. Overall, if you prefer a clacky sound profile and a bouncy, creamy feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch would be a suitable choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a bright, clacky sound profile and a silky smooth feel with a medium-heavy bottom out force, then the Cloud - 63.5g may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium bottom out force switch without any specific sound or feel profile, then the Dustproof Red could be a suitable option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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