HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Outemu Purple
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g, a linear switch, and the Outemu Purple, a tactile switch, offer distinct typing experiences. The Cloud - 63.5g is favored by enthusiasts for its clacky sound profile and heavier feel, providing a bright typing experience with a silky smooth touch. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple is known for its tactile feedback, offering a more pronounced bump during actuation. While the Cloud - 63.5g is perfect for those who prefer a bouncy and clacky typing feel, the Purple switch caters to users who enjoy a more subtle tactile response. 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
2.00 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 Purple, one key difference lies in the material used for the top housing. The Cloud - 63.5g utilizes a nylon top housing, known for its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Purple employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is a stiffer plastic leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials play a significant role in the overall sound produced by the switches, they offer contrasting experiences in terms of sound characteristics.
When it comes to the bottom housing material, both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Purple feature nylon. This classic switch housing material is praised for its softer plastic composition that absorbs sound effectively, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile. By utilizing the same material for the bottom housing, both switches deliver a consistent typing experience in terms of sound characteristics. With the bottom housing having more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, users can expect a similar level of tactile feedback and sound profile from both the Cloud - 63.5g and the Purple switches.
Overall, the choice between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Purple housing materials comes down to personal preference in sound profile. While the nylon top housing of the Cloud - 63.5g creates a duller and rounder sound, the polycarbonate top housing of the Purple offers a clearer and more resonant sound. Depending on whether a deeper or sharper sound profile is desired, users can tailor their typing experience by selecting a switch with the appropriate top housing material. With both switches utilizing nylon for the bottom housing, they provide consistency in terms of tactile feedback and overall sound profile, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of the chosen switch.
Weight
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch is slightly lighter than the Outemu Purple tactile switch in terms of actuation force, with 56 grams compared to 50 grams. However, the Cloud - 63.5g requires a higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the bottom out force of the Purple switch is unknown. The Cloud - 63.5g offers a medium-heavy typing experience, while the Purple switch's force remains undisclosed. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Cloud - 63.5g for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the Outemu Purple switch. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches play a crucial role in determining the typing experience and user preference.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Outemu Purple tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Purple switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cloud switch. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Purple switch being closer to the average of 4.0mm. Gamers may lean towards the Cloud switch for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Outemu Purple switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Purple 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 crisp and bright typing experience that appeals to enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple tactile switch does not have a specified sound profile, so it may not provide the same level of auditory satisfaction as the Cloud - 63.5g.
When it comes to feel, the Cloud - 63.5g switch offers a bouncy sensation with a silky smooth touch, giving users a lively and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the specific feel of the Outemu Purple switch is not provided. Without this information, it is difficult to determine whether it can offer a similar level of satisfaction in terms of typing feel.
Overall, if you are looking for a switch that produces a clacky sound and offers a bouncy, creamy typing experience, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch would be a great choice. However, if you are considering the Outemu Purple tactile switch, be aware that the specific sound and feel characteristics are unknown, so the results may vary. Ultimately, trying out both switches firsthand would be the best way to determine which one aligns more with your preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a heavier keystroke with a clacky sound profile and smooth feel, the Cloud - 63.5g may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a tactile feedback, the Purple switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels best for your typing style and preferences.
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