HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Kailh Plum offer distinct typing experiences for enthusiasts. The Cloud - 63.5g is a linear switch known for its clacky sound profile and bright typing experience, appealing to those who enjoy a bouncy and high-pitched feel while typing. In contrast, the Plum is a tactile switch that feels hefty without a pronounced tactile bump, providing a unique typing experience with a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. If you prefer a smooth and clacky typing experience, the Cloud - 63.5g might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a weighty but less tactile feel, the Plum could be the perfect fit. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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 Kailh Plum switches lies in their top housing material. The Cloud - 63.5g features a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Plum switches utilize a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in materials showcases how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the sound produced by the switch.
On the other hand, both switches share a commonality in their nylon bottom housing. This classic switch housing material is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Therefore, despite the different top housing materials, users can expect similar results in terms of sound when typing on either the Cloud - 63.5g or the Plum switches. This shared characteristic in the bottom housing showcases how certain materials can provide consistent qualities across different switches.
Overall, the choice of housing material in a switch can play a significant role in the overall typing experience. The softer nylon material used in both the top and bottom housing of these switches creates a duller and rounder sound profile, while the stiffer polycarbonate material of the Plum's top housing produces a more clear and resonant sound. Whether you prefer a deeper, fuller sound or a sharper, crisper sound, understanding the impact of different housing materials can help you choose the switch that best suits your typing preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch differ in a few key ways. The Cloud - 63.5g has a lighter actuation force of 56 grams compared to the Plum switch which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Plum switch requires a heavier 70 grams compared to the 63.5 grams of the Cloud - 63.5g. This means that the Plum switch offers a more substantial typing experience due to the heavier bottom out force, while the Cloud - 63.5g allows for a lighter typing experience with its lower actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on whether you prefer a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the HMX Cloud - 63.5g with its slightly longer travel distance, while those who enjoy a more tactile feel may opt for the Kailh Plum switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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 HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, creating a sharp and bright typing experience for enthusiasts who prefer a more percussive sound. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum switch provides a neutral and enjoyable sound, making it a versatile option suitable for a wide range of users and environments. It's important to note that the actual sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch is characterized by its bouncy and creamy feel, offering a spring-like feedback and a smooth, buttery typing experience. In contrast, the Kailh Plum switch provides a mild and stepped feel, offering a gentle typing experience with a two-stage tactile sensation that is more approachable to most users. Both switches provide unique tactile feedback that can cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users.
In conclusion, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch and the Kailh Plum switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The HMX Cloud switch provides a clacky sound and a bouncy, creamy feel, catering to enthusiasts who enjoy a bright and lively typing experience. In comparison, the Kailh Plum switch offers a neutral sound and a mild, stepped feel, making it a versatile option suitable for a wider range of users. Ultimately, both switches provide unique characteristics that can enhance the typing experience, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences and typing needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you enjoy a bright typing experience with a silky smooth feel and prefer a clacky sound profile, the Cloud - 63.5g may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a unique tactile experience with a neutral sound profile and a weightier feel without a huge tactile bump, the Kailh Plum switch might be more suited to your preferences. Consider how you like your keys to feel and sound, and choose the switch that best aligns with your typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable to you.
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