HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the SP-Star Polaris Gray mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are linear switches, there are distinct differences in their characteristics. The Cloud - 63.5g offers a clacky sound profile and a heavier actuation force of 63.5g, providing enthusiasts with a bright and bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switches are known for their clean and clacky sound profile, offering a more neutral and mild typing experience with a lower actuation force. While the Cloud switch caters to those who enjoy a silky smooth feel, the Polaris Gray switch appeals to individuals who prefer a polished and thocky typing experience. 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
67g
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
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g features nylon top and bottom housings, which create a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing due to the softness of the material absorbing more sound. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Gray utilizes polycarbonate for both top and bottom housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switch. Overall, while both materials offer unique sound profiles, the nylon in the Cloud - 63.5g provides a duller and rounder sound, whereas the polycarbonate in the Polaris Gray delivers a more clear and resonant sound.
One key difference between the two switches lies in the materials used for their top housings. The Cloud - 63.5g's nylon top housing offers a softer touch and a deeper sound profile, while the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound. The choice between a duller, rounder sound from nylon and a clearer, resonant sound from polycarbonate will depend on individual preferences for typing experience and sound feedback. Both materials excel in absorbing sound to some extent, enhancing the overall typing experience and making each switch unique in its sound profile.
In terms of feel and sound distribution, the choice of housing material in a switch impacts not only the typing experience but also the sound feedback when a key is released. The qualities brought by the bottom housing material will influence the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material will have a more significant impact on the sound when a key is released. Whether nylon in the Cloud - 63.5g or polycarbonate in the Polaris Gray, the housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound profile and tactile feedback of the switch, making each option distinct in its typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch are both in the medium-heavy range. The actuation force of the Cloud - 63.5g is 56 grams, while the Polaris Gray does not specify an actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Cloud - 63.5g is 63.5 grams, slightly lighter than the 67 grams required for the Polaris Gray. The lighter actuation force of the Cloud - 63.5g may appeal to those who prefer a slightly lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the Polaris Gray may provide a more substantial and satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Polaris Gray has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cloud - 63.5g. The difference of 0.1 mm may not seem significant, but it can impact the feel and responsiveness of the switch. Those who prefer a shorter travel distance may find the Cloud - 63.5g more suitable for faster response times, especially for gaming. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a bit more depth and feedback when typing may lean towards the Polaris Gray. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired 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 SP-Star Polaris Gray has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Gray for $5.00.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch is best suited for those who enjoy a sharp and snappy typing experience with its clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offers a clean and clacky sound, providing a more mellow and bass-heavy tone compared to the Cloud switch. Overall, the sound preference between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a brighter and more percussive sound (Cloud) or a deeper and more satisfying sound (Polaris Gray).
In terms of feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch is known for its silky smooth typing experience, offering a bouncy and elastic feedback sensation for a lively typing feel. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, with a more gentle and approachable feel compared to the vibrant bounce of the Cloud switch. Both switches aim to provide a smooth and effortless keystroke, but the choice between the two will depend on whether you prefer a more lively and spring-like feel (Cloud) or a smoother and more refined typing experience (Polaris Gray).
In conclusion, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles catering to different typing preferences. While the Cloud switch provides a bright and clacky sound with a bouncy typing feel, the Polaris Gray switch offers a more mellow and clean sound with a polished typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize sound sharpness and liveliness (Cloud) or a more subdued and refined typing sensation (Polaris Gray). If you enjoy one quality over the other, sticking with a similar switch type will ensure you get the results you desire.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound profile with a silky smooth and bouncy typing experience, the Cloud - 63.5g may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clean and clacky, low-pitched sound with a mild and polished typing experience, the Polaris Gray switch could be more suited to your taste. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences for sound and feel when typing.
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