HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch offer unique typing experiences. The Cloud - 63.5g is perfect for those who enjoy a bright and clacky sound profile, with a silky smooth feel, making it ideal for enthusiasts seeking a bouncy and creamy typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple is designed for individuals who prefer a big tactile bump and a snappy sound profile, providing an exhilarating 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
Both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the SP-Star Polaris Purple utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, with the Cloud - 63.5g featuring a nylon top and bottom housing while the Polaris Purple uses polycarbonate for both components. The nylon top housing of the Cloud - 63.5g contributes to a softer and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder tone when typing. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Polaris Purple produces a sharper and crisper sound, thanks to its stiffer nature which enhances clarity and resonance. While both housings offer unique sound profiles, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate ultimately depends on personal preference for sound and feel.
In terms of aesthetics, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the SP-Star Polaris Purple allows for a translucent design that is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects. This clear housing material not only enhances the visual appeal of the switch but also provides a more vibrant lighting experience, making it a popular choice for those looking to customize their keyboard setup. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g offers a more classic and understated look, with a focus on sound performance rather than visual effects. While both switches serve their purpose well, the choice between polycarbonate and nylon top housing may come down to individual style preferences and the desired level of customization.
When comparing the bottom housings of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, both switches feature the same materials as their respective top housings. This consistency in housing materials ensures that the sound and feel of both switches remain balanced and coherent throughout typing sessions. The nylon bottom housing of the Cloud - 63.5g contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Purple enhances sharpness and clarity in typing sound. Whether it's the impact of bottom-out sound or the release sound of a key press, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate bottom housing materials will play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience for users.
Weight
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch is lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, with an actuation force of 56 grams versus None grams, respectively. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Cloud - 63.5g requiring 63.5 grams and the Polaris Purple needing 67 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g may be more suitable, as it allows for longer typing periods without fatigue. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple provides a more substantial push feel, ideal for users who prefer a heavier typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9mm, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the Polaris Purple has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cloud - 63.5g. The traditional travel distance is around 4.0mm, so both switches fall within this range. Gamers tend to prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Cloud - 63.5g a popular choice for gaming. On the other hand, some users may prefer the extra depth provided by the longer travel distance of the Polaris Purple. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel.
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 Purple 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 Purple 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
The Cloud - 63.5g switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed, providing a sharp and bright typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switch features a neutral sound profile, suitable for various scenarios due to its moderate actuation force requirement. When it comes to feel, the Cloud - 63.5g switch is described as bouncy and creamy, offering a spring-like feedback and smooth typing experience. In contrast, the Polaris Purple switch provides a mild and polished feel, delivering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, both switches cater to different preferences with the Cloud - 63.5g focusing on a bright and lively typing experience, while the Polaris Purple offers a more approachable and polished feel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can achieve similar results with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch or the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, you should take into account your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a bright and clacky sound profile with a silky smooth feel, the Cloud - 63.5g may be the preferred choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more exhilarating tactile typing experience with a big tactile bump and snappy sound profile, the Polaris Purple could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize sound and feel characteristics such as bouncy and creamy vs. mild and polished. Consider your personal typing preferences to determine which switch would best suit your needs.
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