HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. HMX Poro
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the HMX Poro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly impact your typing experience, and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the HMX Poro are two compelling linear options worth considering. The Cloud - 63.5g offers a heavier actuation force of 63.5g, appealing to enthusiasts who relish a more tactile and clacky feel, combined with a crisp sound profile that enhances the auditory feedback of each keystroke. Its unique characteristics—described as bouncy, clacky, creamy, and high-pitched—make it ideal for users who prefer a more dynamic typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Poro features a lighter actuation force, paired with meticulously lubricated components that promote effortless gliding, making each keystroke feel smooth and satisfying. While both switches offer a linear feel, their differing weights and sound profiles cater to varying preferences: the Cloud for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback and tactile sensation, and the Poro for those who prefer a quick, smooth typing experience without the added weight. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the HMX Poro switches share an identical composition in their housings, with both featuring nylon materials for the top and bottom housings. Nylon is often praised in the mechanical keyboard community for its ability to produce a fuller and deeper acoustics, traits each of these switches embodies. The use of nylon in both models contributes to a characteristic sound profile that is rounder and softer compared to switches made from harder plastics. This alignment in housing materials allows for consistent and predictable typing experiences across both switches, ensuring that users can expect a similar auditory response regardless of which model they choose.
As the switches leverage nylon in both top and bottom housings, they exhibit the same acoustic properties. The soft nature of nylon means that both the Cloud and Poro will absorb sound better than harder materials, leading to a quieter typing experience. When pressed, each switch will yield an auditory output that is muted yet deep, enhancing the typing experience by reducing harshness and providing a more dampened sound. This acoustic synergy, attributable to the identical materials used, means that no matter which switch is utilized, typists will experience a pleasing sound quality that enhances their overall interaction with the keyboard.
Moreover, the uniformity of nylon in both housings affects how users perceive the typing feel and sound during operation. While the bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out feel and sound, the top housing’s softer properties contribute to the sound produced when the key is released. Therefore, even though there are distinct contributions from each housing to the overall performance of the switch, the consistent use of nylon in both models means that typers will find themselves enjoying a cohesive and fluid typing experience whether they opt for the Cloud - 63.5g or the Poro. In summary, users can rely on the similarity in housing materials to deliver comparable results in terms of acoustic performance and feedback.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, significant differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cloud - 63.5g features a heavier actuation force of 56 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which contributes to a more substantial typing experience that some users prefer for its tactile feedback. In contrast, the Poro switch offers a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who favor a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions with less finger fatigue. Overall, the Poro switch is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Cloud - 63.5g, making it the better option for users seeking a more delicate typing style. In essence, if you prioritize a firm and pronounced keystroke, the Cloud - 63.5g would be the suitable choice, while the Poro caters to those who enjoy a softer, more effortless feel.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch differ slightly in their travel distances, with the Cloud switch measuring 3.9 mm and the Poro switch measuring 3.7 mm. This makes the Poro the shorter option, providing a more responsive experience that many gamers favor for quicker key presses. Conversely, the longer travel distance of the Cloud switch at 3.9 mm offers a more substantial tactile feedback, appealing to users who prefer a deeper feel when typing or gaming. Choosing between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference: if you value responsiveness and speed, the Poro may be the better choice; if you appreciate a more pronounced feel with depth, the Cloud would be more suitable.
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 HMX Poro has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Poro for $2.99.
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 switch excels with its distinctively clacky profile that delivers a sharp and snappy auditory response with each keystroke. This sound can be characterized as crisp, bright, and percussive—perfect for those who appreciate a high-pitched click while typing. Its sound profile caters to enthusiasts who enjoy a lively auditory feedback, invigorating the typing experience. In contrast, specific sound characteristics for the HMX Poro linear switch remain unspecified, though it is noted that both switches share some level of clackiness. Ultimately, external factors such as keyboard construction and keycap choice will play a role in how one perceives the sound from either switch.
Regarding the feel, the Cloud - 63.5g switch stands out for its bouncy nature, offering a spring-like feedback that enhances the typing experience. This lively sensation, coupled with its creamy texture, provides a buttery, smooth glide that makes typing an enjoyable endeavor. Each keystroke feels as though your fingers are gliding effortlessly, making it an appealing option for those who prioritize tactile satisfaction. Conversely, details about the feel of the HMX Poro linear switch are not provided; however, it is emphasized that both switches are known for their smoothness. The creamy and bouncy feeling of the Cloud suggests a similarly satisfying experience with the Poro, assuming it too is favorably lubed.
In conclusion, while the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch is characterized by its striking sound and tactile feel, the qualities of the HMX Poro linear switch remain less defined, particularly in terms of auditory characteristics and tactile sensation. However, both switches promise a smooth typing experience, and the shared clacky nature suggests that users can expect satisfying results from either choice. Ultimately, if you are drawn to a vibrant auditory feedback and a delightful feeling when typing, the Cloud may be an ideal option, while the Poro may provide a similarly smooth but less pronounced experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, selecting between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a more substantial tactile feedback with a medium-heavy weight that provides a bouncy and lively typing experience, then the Cloud - 63.5g would be a great choice for you. Its clacky sound profile adds an enjoyable sharpness to each keystroke, making it perfect for enthusiasts who appreciate an engaging auditory experience while typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you’re seeking a light and effortless keystroke with a smooth, creamy feel, the HMX Poro switch is your ideal option. Its ultra-light actuation force allows for quick and comfortable typing, which is especially beneficial if you spend long hours at the keyboard. Additionally, the Poro's satisfyingly poppy sound profile provides a delightful auditory feedback without being overpowering, making it suitable for quieter environments. Ultimately, consider your weight preference, typing feedback, and sound profile when making your decision between these two switches.
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