HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Outemu Phoenix mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences. The Cloud - 63.5g is a linear switch known for its clacky sound profile and smooth feel, making it a favorite among enthusiasts who enjoy a bright typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix is a clicky switch with an under-skirt click mechanism, offering a unique and crystalline sound profile that stands out from other clicky switches. While the Cloud - 63.5g is bouncy, clacky, creamy, and high-pitched, the Phoenix is described as crunchy and polished. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that appeal to different users, but diving deeper into their specifics will help you decide on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
56g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
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 and Outemu Phoenix differ in their housing materials, with the Cloud - 63.5g featuring nylon top and bottom housings, while the Phoenix uses polycarbonate for both. The nylon housing of the Cloud - 63.5g creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic, which absorbs more sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate used in the Phoenix. On the other hand, the polycarbonate housing of the Phoenix results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for users who prefer a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the choice of housing material also varies, with polycarbonate being preferred for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency.
However, despite their differences in housing materials, both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and Outemu Phoenix offer similar results in terms of switch performance. The nylon bottom housing of the Cloud - 63.5g and the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phoenix both contribute to the overall sound profile when a key is pressed, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Similarly, the top housing material, whether nylon or polycarbonate, plays a significant role in the sound produced when a key is released. Therefore, while the housing materials may differ between the two switches, the end result in terms of sound and feel may not be drastically different.
In conclusion, the choice between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and Outemu Phoenix ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. The nylon housing of the Cloud - 63.5g offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate housing of the Phoenix provides a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches showcase the impact of housing material on switch performance, with the qualities of each material being felt in both the bottom and top housings. Whether one prefers the softer, more absorbent qualities of nylon or the clear and resonant properties of polycarbonate, both switches provide a unique typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, we can see that the Cloud - 63.5g is on the lighter side with an actuation force of 56 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. On the other hand, the Phoenix is slightly heavier with an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. Both switches provide a medium typing experience, but the Cloud - 63.5g requires slightly less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Phoenix. Some users may prefer the Cloud - 63.5g for longer typing sessions due to its lighter actuation force, while others may enjoy the Phoenix for its slightly heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, which is longer than the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch. The Cloud offers slightly more keystroke depth compared to the Phoenix. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Phoenix, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Cloud. Both switches provide an optimal typing experience, but the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference for key travel depth.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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
In terms of sound, the Cloud - 63.5g offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing users with a sharp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch provides a unique crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, catering to different preferences in keyboard sound profiles. When paired with different keyboards and keycaps, the sound of the switches may vary, providing users with the ability to customize their typing experience further.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cloud - 63.5g switch offers a bouncy and creamy typing sensation, providing users with a lively and smooth keystroke feel. In contrast, the Phoenix switch provides a polished feel, offering a refined and sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer distinct tactile sensations, catering to users who prefer either a bouncy and creamy feel or a polished and smooth typing experience. Choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for typing feel.
Overall, the Cloud - 63.5g and the Phoenix switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Cloud switch provides a clacky sound profile and a bouncy, creamy feel, while the Phoenix switch offers a crunchy sound and a polished typing sensation. When selecting between these switches, users should consider their preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience to choose the switch that best suits their needs. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and can provide satisfying typing experiences for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a bright and clacky typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, then the Cloud - 63.5g is the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique click mechanism with a high-pitched and crunchy sound profile, along with a polished and smooth typing feel, then the Outemu Phoenix switch would be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, it's important to choose a switch that aligns with your personal preferences in order to enhance your overall typing experience.
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