HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu 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 Red mechanical keyboard switches, there are some 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, making it ideal for enthusiasts who appreciate a bright typing experience and a silky smooth feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Red is also a linear switch but lacks any specific standout features, making it a more neutral option. Both switches have their own strengths and weaknesses, so it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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 main difference between the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Red switches lies in the top housing. The Cloud - 63.5g features a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Red switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate also allows for RGB lighting, making it a more visually appealing option for those who prioritize aesthetics.
On the other hand, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which enhances the overall sound profile by absorbing more sound and providing a duller and rounder sound. This commonality in the bottom housing material ensures that users will experience a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when pressing down on the switches. However, the differences in the top housing material will impact the sound produced when releasing a key, with the Cloud - 63.5g offering a deeper sound and the Outemu Red providing a crisper and clearer sound.
In conclusion, the choice between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Red switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The nylon top housing of the Cloud - 63.5g offers a more muffled and deeper sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Red provides a sharper and more resonant sound. Both switches have a nylon bottom housing, ensuring a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel. Overall, the housing materials significantly impact the auditory experience of typing on these switches, making it important for users to consider their sound preferences when selecting a switch for their keyboard.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, we can see that the Cloud - 63.5g switch 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, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Outemu Red switch is lighter with an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, making it a medium switch. The Cloud - 63.5g switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, while the Outemu Red switch offers a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch is 3.9 mm, while the Outemu Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Outemu Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the HMX Cloud. The difference of 0.1 mm may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and performance of the switch. The HMX Cloud may provide a slightly faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for quick key presses. On the other hand, the Outemu Red may offer a bit more depth and tactile feedback for those who prefer a more pronounced key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific use case.
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 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 excels in providing a clacky sound profile and a bouncy, creamy feel, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts seeking a bright typing experience with a silky smooth touch. On the other hand, the Outemu Red linear switch does not have specific subjective qualities mentioned, so it may provide a more neutral sound and feel compared to the distinctive characteristics of the Cloud - 63.5g. However, both switches are linear, which means they offer a consistent keystroke without tactile feedback or audible clicks. Therefore, if you are looking for a similar experience in terms of sound and feel, you can expect comparable results between the two switches. Ultimately, the choice between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Red will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound profile with a silky smooth feel, the Cloud - 63.5g may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the Outemu Red linear switch could be a suitable option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and what feels most comfortable to you.
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