HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the SP-Star RedBlue offer unique characteristics catering to different preferences. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g is a linear switch known for its clacky sound profile and heavier actuation, providing enthusiasts with a bright typing experience and a silky smooth feel. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switches are favored for their medium-light typing experience and lower-pitched sound profile. They are suitable for those who prefer a more neutral and polished feel. Each switch has its own distinctive qualities that may appeal to different users based on their preferences. 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
57g
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 housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the SP-Star RedBlue switches offer distinct characteristics that affect the sound profile and typing experience. The Cloud - 63.5g features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the RedBlue switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer composition. While both materials have their unique properties, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate ultimately depends on the desired sound and typing feel.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the Cloud - 63.5g and RedBlue switches follow the same trend as their respective top housings. The nylon bottom housing of the Cloud - 63.5g contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the RedBlue switch produces a sharper and crisper sound. These differences in material composition between the bottom housings impact the overall typing experience, particularly in terms of bottom-out sound and feel. Whether one prefers a duller and rounder sound or a clear and resonant sound will determine which switch is more suitable for their preferences.
In switches where the top and bottom housings differ, such as the Cloud - 63.5g and RedBlue switches, the qualities of each material are separated within the switch. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. This distribution of housing materials provides a unique typing experience that can cater to various preferences, whether for a softer, fuller sound or a crisper, higher-pitched sound. Ultimately, the choice between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the SP-Star RedBlue switches comes down to individual preference in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch differ in weight. The Cloud - 63.5g has an actuation force of 56 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy. In comparison, the RedBlue switch has an actuation force that is unknown and a bottom out force of 57 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. The Cloud - 63.5g switch requires a slightly heavier force to trigger a keystroke, while the RedBlue switch offers a lighter touch for typing. Some may prefer the Cloud - 63.5g for a more substantial typing experience, while others may opt for the RedBlue for longer typing sessions with its lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switches have slightly different travel distances, with the Cloud - 63.5g having a travel distance of 3.9 mm and the RedBlue having a travel distance of 4 mm. While the difference between the two may seem small, it can affect the typing experience for users. The Cloud - 63.5g has a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch is renowned for its clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and percussive typing experience that appeals to enthusiasts seeking a bright and lively sound. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offers a low-pitched sound with a neutral and thocky quality, making it suitable for a wider range of users who prefer a more mellow and satisfying typing sound. When it comes to feel, the Cloud - 63.5g switch offers a bouncy and creamy sensation, giving users a spring-like feedback and smooth keystrokes. In contrast, the RedBlue switch provides a mild and polished feel, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, while the sound and feel of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and SP-Star RedBlue switches differ in their characteristics, both switches are designed to cater to specific preferences and offer a pleasant typing experience. Whether you prefer a clacky and lively sound with a bouncy and creamy feel, or a low-pitched and thocky sound with a mild and polished sensation, both switches provide quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, but rest assured that each switch will deliver a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a bright and clacky sound profile with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Cloud - 63.5g may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched and thocky sound profile, the RedBlue switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and feel when typing.
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