HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Bsun Ragdoll
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Bsun Ragdoll switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves drawn to specific characteristics that enhance their typing experience. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch is celebrated for its clacky sound profile and a heavier actuation force, making it a prime choice for those who enjoy a more auditory feedback while typing. With a silky smooth feel and a bright, high-pitched sound, this switch appeals to users who relish each keystroke's auditory and tactile engagement. In contrast, the BSUN Ragdoll linear switch offers an entirely different appeal; it features a Y3 stem designed for smooth travel, coupled with a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing that contributes to its distinctive clackiness. While both switches provide a linear experience, the Ragdoll leans more toward a smoother, whisper-like operation that can be ideal for quieter environments. Ultimately, the choice between the two may come down to personal preference for sound and tactile feedback. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
56g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Y3
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
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Bsun Ragdoll both feature nylon as their primary housing material, which significantly influences their acoustic properties and tactile responses. The nylon top and bottom housings of both switches are described in identical terms, highlighting the characteristics of nylon as a classic switch housing material. This similarity means that both switches are designed to deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature. This quality allows the switches to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a more muted and rounded auditory experience when typing.
Despite the identical descriptions of their top and bottom housings, it's essential to consider how sound and feel can be influenced by other design factors such as switch mechanics and spring tension. Since both the Cloud - 63.5g and Ragdoll utilize nylon for housing, users can expect similar acoustic properties. The nylon top housing primarily affects the sound during key release, contributing to a more pleasant and subdued auditory feedback. Conversely, the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and tactile feel when pressing the keys down. Both switches offer a smooth typing experience characterized by a satisfying sound profile that complements their respective designs.
Ultimately, the use of the same housing material in both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Bsun Ragdoll presents an interesting case of unity in design philosophy. Users can anticipate that both switches will provide a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and feel, largely due to the nylon material. Any variations in key response would likely arise from the individual switch’s internal mechanics rather than the housing material itself. As such, keyboard enthusiasts seeking a rich and aesthetically pleasing typing experience may find both options appealing, as they promise similar acoustic results stemming from their common use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Cloud switch features an actuation force of 56 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. In contrast, the Ragdoll switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, categorized as medium-light. This variance means that the Cloud switch provides a firmer typing experience, which some users might prefer for a more substantial feel during prolonged typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the lighter Ragdoll switch may be more suitable for those who value comfort over extended periods, making it a better option for work-related tasks or lengthy gameplay. Therefore, users looking for a switch that requires less effort for actuation while still offering good responsiveness might lean towards the Ragdoll, while those who appreciate a heavier tactile feedback would likely opt for the Cloud.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, it is evident that the Cloud switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Ragdoll features a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference, although minimal, can influence user experience significantly. For those who prioritize responsiveness, the Ragdoll's shorter travel may offer a quicker reaction time, appealing particularly to gamers seeking speed. Conversely, the Cloud switch, with its more extended travel distance, may provide a deeper feel that some users prefer for a more tactile typing experience. In summary, while both switches are relatively close in travel distance, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g is the longer option, whereas the Bsun Ragdoll offers a shorter travel distance.
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 Bsun Ragdoll has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ragdoll for $3.29.
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 delivers a distinctly clacky audio profile that stands out with its crisp, bright notes that resonate with a sharp and snappy quality. This high-pitched character makes it ideal for those who prefer a more percussive typing experience, effectively cutting through the ambient noise of a workspace. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch features a unique nylon-fiberglass bottom housing, which contributes to a clacky sound as well. While the specifics of its sound profile aren't explicitly detailed, the material composition suggests that it will produce a sound that could vary depending on the keyboard assembly and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Cloud - 63.5g switch shines through with its creamy and silky texture, providing a luxurious typing experience. The smooth travel is significantly enhanced by the factory lubricant used within the switch, allowing for fluid motion as fingers glide effortlessly across the keys. This buttery sensation makes it an attractive choice for users seeking both precision and comfort. On the other hand, details about the feel of the Bsun Ragdoll switch are not provided, leaving a gap in understanding how it compares in terms of tactile feedback and smoothness.
In summary, while the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch offers a well-defined clacky sound and a buttery, silky feel, the Bsun Ragdoll switch also claims to deliver a clacky sound but lacks detailed information about its tactile qualities. Enthusiasts might gravitate towards the Cloud for its vibrant aural and tactile characteristics, while the Ragdoll could offer similar acoustic experiences depending on its construction and material. Understanding these differences will help newcomers assess which switch may best suit their personal typing preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a heavier switch that provides a noticeable tactile feedback combined with a clacky sound profile, the Cloud - 63.5g may be the right fit for you. Its medium-heavy actuation force of 63.5 grams offers a robust feel, making it ideal for those who prefer a firmer keypress, especially during intense typing sessions or gaming. Additionally, its creamy and silky smooth typing experience ensures that your fingers glide effortlessly across the keys, enhancing your overall comfort. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch that prioritizes smooth key travel without the pronounced clack, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch could be your go-to choice. With a bottom-out force of just 52 grams, this medium-light switch provides a less strenuous experience, making it suitable for long typing durations where reduced finger fatigue is a priority. Moreover, its design helps maintain a smooth feel while typing, providing a different kind of satisfaction compared to the HMX Cloud. In summary, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize a heavier, snappier feel with clacky acoustics or a lighter, smoother experience geared for endurance.
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