HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Akko Rosewood
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Akko Rosewood switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Akko Rosewood stand out as two compelling options for linear switch enthusiasts, each bringing its own unique characteristics to the table. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g sets itself apart with a clacky sound profile and a heavier actuation force that weighs in at 63.5g, making it ideal for those who relish a bright and vibrant typing experience paired with a silky smooth keystroke. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood impresses with its deep, thocky sound, complemented by a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant that enhances its responsiveness straight out of the box. While both switches offer a linear feel that appeals to gamers and typists alike, the choice ultimately hinges on whether you prefer the lively auditory feedback of the Cloud or the more muted, satisfying thock of the Rosewood. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
56g
Actuation force
40g
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
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Nylon
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
Both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Akko Rosewood feature nylon as their primary housing material for the top and bottom components. This choice of a softer plastic provides several acoustic advantages, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile that typists find appealing. The nature of nylon, being a relatively softer material, allows it to absorb sound rather than reflect it, resulting in a sound outcome that is distinctively duller and rounder. This intrinsic quality of nylon is a shared characteristic of both switch models, suggesting that users will experience similar acoustic feedback when typing on either switch.
Despite the similarities in housing material, the construction of the switches themselves can still lead to variations in typing experience. If the two switches were to incorporate different designs for the top and bottom housings, one could expect the characteristics of each material to manifest in different ways during use. Specifically, the bottom housing primarily influences the feel and sound of the switch during the bottom-out phase, while the top housing affects the sound upon release. In this context, while the nylon material might produce a similar sound profile across both switches, the actual user experience can diverge depending on how each switch integrates its nylon housings with other design features.
In essence, although the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Akko Rosewood utilize the same nylon material for both top and bottom housings, the overall performance and sound experience could still differ based on construction nuances. Nevertheless, since they both employ nylon, typists can anticipate a comparable acoustic quality rooted in a soothing, fuller sound. This parity in materials can lead to similar typing experiences overall, particularly regarding sound absorption and response, making either switch a solid choice for those who favor this nuanced acoustic characteristic.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cloud - 63.5g switch features an actuation force of 56 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which indicates a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Rosewood switch is significantly lighter, with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This difference in weight suggests that the Rosewood might be more suitable for those who favor a lighter touch, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. Conversely, the heavier feel of the Cloud switch may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial and tactile response. Overall, the Cloud switch is the heavier option, while the Rosewood switch is the lighter choice, providing distinctly different experiences based on personal typing preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, the Cloud switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Rosewood switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Rosewood switch offers a deeper press, which may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. In contrast, the Cloud switch's shorter distance is more in line with contemporary preferences for quick response times, particularly among gamers. Therefore, if you value a more responsive keystroke, you might lean towards the HMX Cloud switch. However, if you prefer a more traditional, deeper experience, the Akko Rosewood switch would be the better choice. Ultimately, these differences provide distinct tactile experiences based on the user's preference for depth versus responsiveness.
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 Akko Rosewood has an MSRP of $3.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Rosewood for $3.11.
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 switches produce a clacky, high-pitched profile that delivers a sharp and percussive auditory experience. This sound is bright and crisp, appealing to those who enjoy a lively keyboard that announces each keystroke distinctly. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood switches favor a thockier sound that is deeper and more satisfying. This thocky delivery gives a more muted yet rich effect, creating a unique acoustic experience that dampens the sharper edges of typing noise. Both sound profiles can be influenced by the choice of board and keycaps; however, you can expect a more pronounced brightness and a punchy response from the Cloud while the Rosewood offers a warmer, deeper timbre.
In terms of feel, the Cloud - 63.5g switch is noted for its bouncy and creamy characteristics. The bouncy feedback provides an elastic sensation that adds liveliness to each keystroke, while the creamy texture ensures a smooth and buttery typing experience. Users can glide their fingers effortlessly across the keys, with each press delivering a reliable return. Unfortunately, specific descriptions of the feel of the Rosewood switches are not provided, making a direct comparison harder to formulate. However, given the general attributes of linear switches, it's likely to have smooth traits akin to the Cloud - 63.5g, although the exact sensation remains unknown.
In conclusion, both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and Akko Rosewood linear switches cater to distinct preferences in sound and feel. The Cloud offers a bright, clacky sound with a bouncy, creamy feel, perfect for enthusiasts who appreciate a more vibrant typing experience. The Rosewood, on the other hand, creates a deeper thock while maintaining a smooth operation. Each switch presents unique characteristics, making the choice largely dependent on personal preference regarding auditory and tactile feedback. If you are seeking a specific typing experience, consider trying both to find which aligns better with your needs.
Conclusion
To wrap up, choosing between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences for weight, sound, and feel in your typing experience. If you enjoy a more forceful keypress with a medium-heavy actuation weight, the HMX Cloud is an excellent choice, especially if you appreciate a clacky and high-pitched sound profile that adds an energetic vibe to your typing. This switch, characterized by its bouncy and creamy feel, is ideal for those who favor a lively response and a satisfying auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a soft actuation at 50 grams, the Akko Rosewood switch might be more suitable for you. Its deep thocky sound, combined with the silky smoothness afforded by its lubrication, makes it a great option for a quieter and more subdued typing experience that still delivers satisfaction. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize that satisfying auditory pop and heavier feel of the Cloud switch or the soft and smooth control of the Rosewood.
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