HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves debating between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch. The Cloud - 63.5g is popular for its clacky sound profile and heavier actuation force, providing a bright typing experience for those who enjoy a bouncy and creamy feel with a high-pitched sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue switch doesn't have a specific standout feature but is known for its clicky feedback. This switch offers a different typing experience, characterized by a satisfying click sound with each keypress. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to specific preferences, but the ultimate choice will depend on your personal typing style and preferences. 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
N/A
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
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g and Outemu Milk Blue both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. While the Cloud - 63.5g features a nylon top housing known for creating a deeper and fuller sound, the Milk Blue utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper and crisper sound. This contrast in sound characteristics can greatly impact the typing experience for users, with nylon offering a duller and rounder sound compared to the more resonant and clear sound produced by polycarbonate. Additionally, the use of clear polycarbonate in the Milk Blue allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switch.
In terms of their bottom housing materials, both the Cloud - 63.5g and Milk Blue utilize nylon, which is known for absorbing more sound and creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This consistency in bottom housing material suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound when using either switch. However, the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch cannot be overlooked, as the material used in this component plays a significant role in the overall typing experience.
It is important to note that the qualities of the housing material are split between the top and bottom of a switch, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has an impact on the sound when releasing a key. This distinction highlights the significance of both top and bottom housing materials in determining the overall sound profile and typing experience of a switch. Whether using the Cloud - 63.5g with its nylon top and bottom housing or the Milk Blue with its polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing, users can expect a unique and customized typing experience based on the materials used in each component.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Cloud - 63.5g is heavier in both aspects. The Cloud - 63.5g has an actuation force of 56 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, whereas the Milk Blue has an actuation force of 50 grams and an unknown bottom out force. This makes the Cloud - 63.5g a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Milk Blue may be preferred by those who like a lighter typing experience and do not mind the unknown bottom out force. Overall, the weight of a switch is an important factor to consider based on individual preferences for typing comfort and performance.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, slightly shorter than the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Milk Blue being on the longer side and the Cloud - 63.5g being slightly shorter. Gamers looking for fast response times may prefer the Cloud - 63.5g due to its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke may opt for the Milk Blue with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing 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 Milk 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched typing experience that is crisp, bright, and percussive. This is ideal for those who enjoy a sharp and snappy sound profile when typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch does not have any specific sound descriptors available. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cloud - 63.5g linear switch is praised for its bouncy and creamy typing experience. The keys provide a spring-like feedback, giving a lively feel and rebound when pressed. The creamy sensation offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, making each keystroke feel silky and effortless. As for the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, there is no specific information available on its feel characteristics.
Overall, if you prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound profile along with a bouncy and creamy typing feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch would be a suitable choice for you. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch are unknown, you may expect similar results by exploring other switches known for a more clicky sound and tactile feedback. It's important to consider your personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these switches to ensure the best typing experience for you.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are someone who enjoys a bright and clacky typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, then the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch would be a great option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky sound profile with a lighter key feel, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize sound, bottom out force, or typing feel in your mechanical keyboard setup. Consider your typing preferences and prioritize what matters most to you when making a decision between these two switches.
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