HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 63.5g, a linear switch, to the Outemu Ocean, a tactile switch, it is clear that both offer unique qualities. The Cloud - 63.5g is favored by enthusiasts for its clacky sound profile and bright typing experience, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a silky smooth feel while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean lacks specific standout features but is still a reliable tactile switch. If you prefer a bouncy, clacky, creamy, and high-pitched typing experience, the Cloud - 63.5g may be the switch for you. 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
55g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Outemu Ocean utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This distinction in material leads to a noticeable difference in sound output between the two switches. Additionally, the use of clear polycarbonate in the Ocean's top housing allows for RGB lighting effects, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switch.
On the other hand, both the Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Ocean utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound better than harder plastics. Despite having different top housing materials, the switches share this similarity in their bottom housing, which impacts the overall typing experience in a consistent manner. This consistency ensures that users can expect a similar sound and feel when typing on either switch.
In situations where the top and bottom housings of a switch differ, the qualities of each housing material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing's impact will be felt more during the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. This design aspect highlights the importance of considering both the top and bottom housing materials when evaluating a switch's overall performance and sound characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate housing materials can significantly impact the typing experience and sound profile of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
The actuation force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch is slightly heavier than the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, with 56 grams compared to 55 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Cloud - 63.5g requires 63.5 grams, while the Ocean's force is unknown. This makes the Cloud - 63.5g a bit heavier overall in terms of force required for keystrokes. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Ocean switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Cloud - 63.5g. Ultimately, the weight of the switch is a key factor to consider based on personal preferences for typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, the Cloud - 63.5g has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Ocean has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Ocean being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the Cloud - 63.5g for its shorter travel distance, as it can lead to faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Outemu Ocean tactile switch. 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 Ocean 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, providing a sharp and snappy typing experience that is bright and percussive in nature. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch's sound profile is currently unknown. When it comes to feel, the Cloud - 63.5g switch offers a bouncy and creamy typing experience, giving users a spring-like feedback and a smooth, buttery sensation while typing. The feel of the Outemu Ocean switch is currently unknown.
Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a clacky sound profile and a bouncy, creamy feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch would be a great choice. However, if you are unsure about the sound and feel of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, you may get similar results to the Cloud - 63.5g switch if you prefer a bright and percussive sound profile and a smooth, buttery typing experience. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a bright and clacky typing experience 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 prefer a switch with a tactile feedback and are not picky about the bottom out force, the Outemu Ocean switch could be a great option. Consider what sound profile and typing feel you prefer before making your decision. Ultimately, the best switch for you will be the one that enhances your overall typing experience and suits your preferences. Happy typing!
Mentioned in this article
