HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 53g
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g reveals distinct preferences among users. The HMX Cloud, with its clackier sound profile, is favored by enthusiasts who appreciate an auditory feedback that complements a smooth and responsive typing experience. The heavier 63.5g force of the Cloud switch lends itself to a bouncier feel, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura offers a tranquil typing experience with its whisper-quiet design. Weighing in at a balanced 53g, this switch caters to users who prefer a lighter, yet satisfying feedback without the distractions of noisy keystrokes. Ultimately, whether you gravitate towards the lively soundscape of the Cloud or the serene silence of the Sakura, each switch presents unique advantages tailored to different typing styles and environments. 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
53g
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
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g, the similarity in their top housing material—both switches feature nylon—offers a foundational commonality in typing experience. As described, nylon's properties elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, resulting in a typing experience characterized by a duller and rounder sound. This is a significant advantage for users seeking a mellow auditory feedback while typing. Therefore, in this respect, both switches are likely to produce a comparable acoustic environment, making them suitable for users who prioritize sound quality and comfort over the potential sharpness offered by harder plastics.
However, the bottom housing presents a marked difference in material choice between the two switches. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g employs a nylon bottom housing, which continues the trend of a deeper, more muted sound profile, reinforcing the overall acoustic characteristics defined by its top housing. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g features a polycarbonate bottom housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material plays a crucial role in defining the bottom-out sound and feel of each switch, as the polycarbonate facilitates a more resonant and lively typing experience. Thus, the Silent Sakura’s sound profile becomes more pronounced, appealing to those who enjoy a more tactile and auditory feedback during use.
Ultimately, while both switches share a nylon top housing, the contrasting bottom housing materials—nylon for the Cloud and polycarbonate for the Silent Sakura—create distinct experiences. The Cloud aims to maintain a cohesive and subdued acoustic presence, providing consistency throughout keypresses. In contrast, the Silent Sakura benefits from polycarbonate's characteristics, allowing for a more vibrant and energetic typing experience. Therefore, while users may anticipate achieving a smooth and refined typing experience with both switches, the differences in their bottom housing materials will largely dictate their unique sound profiles and user experiences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, it is clear that they cater to different preferences regarding actuation and bottom out forces. The Cloud switch features an actuation force of 56 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Silent Sakura switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. This difference means that users who prefer a heavier typing experience may gravitate towards the Cloud switch for its more substantial feel, while those seeking a lighter switch for longer typing sessions or extended gaming might prefer the Silent Sakura. Ultimately, the Cloud switch is the heavier option, while the Silent Sakura is the lighter, optimizing for distinct typing experiences based on personal preference.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This difference indicates that the Silent Sakura provides a more traditional experience often preferred by users who enjoy a deeper keypress. In contrast, the Cloud's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking a quicker response time due to the less distance required to fully actuate the key. Thus, if you prioritize a more responsive feel, the HMX Cloud could be the better choice, whereas those who appreciate a more substantial key press might find the HMX Silent Sakura more satisfying. Overall, the Silent Sakura is the longer switch, measuring 4.0 mm compared to the Cloud's 3.9 mm.
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 Silent Sakura - 53g comes in at $3.50 per 10 switches.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch delivers a pronounced clacky profile that enthusiasts often find appealing. This switch produces a crisp, bright, and percussive feedback that is characteristic of high-pitched linings, creating an engaging auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g is engineered for those who prioritize quietness. While the specific sound signature of the Silent Sakura is not detailed, it is designed to produce a whisper-quiet typing experience that resembles the gentle sound of raindrops. Therefore, if you favor a lively and prominent acoustic environment, the Cloud would be the ideal choice, while the Silent Sakura suits environments where sound control is necessary.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g offers a more dynamic typing sensation, characterized by a bouncy and creamy touch. This switch provides a responsive rebound upon keystroke, enhancing the overall typing experience with a lively elasticity. The silky, buttery sensation contributes to a highly satisfying tactile feedback, ensuring that each press feels smooth and effortless. In contrast, the feel of the Silent Sakura - 53g is currently unspecified, leaving its tactile qualities a mystery. However, the lighter actuation force may appeal to those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience.
In conclusion, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches provide distinct typing experiences tailored to different preferences. The Cloud excels in sound and tactile feedback, making it perfect for those who enjoy a vibrant and engaging environment. Meanwhile, the Silent Sakura focuses on quiet operation, ideal for noise-sensitive situations. While both switches may offer smooth keystrokes, the choice ultimately hinges on whether the user prioritizes auditory feedback or a quieter typing experience. If you opt for either switch, you'll enjoy a unique set of characteristics that cater to your typing style preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g should be guided by your personal preferences and typing environment. If you enjoy a more tactile, bouncy typing experience and appreciate the engaging clacky sound that comes with it, the Cloud switch would be your go-to. Its medium-heavy actuation force of 63.5 grams caters to those who prefer a bit more resistance, adding character to your keystrokes—perfect for those who find joy in the auditory feedback of their typing. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter, more subdued atmosphere, especially in shared or noise-sensitive spaces, the Silent Sakura is an excellent choice. With its lighter actuation force of 53 grams, you'll find it easier to press the keys with minimal effort, while still enjoying a smooth, satisfying feel. This switch ensures that your typing remains discreet, akin to the gentle sound of raindrops, making it ideal for both casual users and those who enjoy late-night typing sessions without disturbing others. Ultimately, the right switch for you hinges on whether you desire the vibrant feedback of the Cloud or the hushed comfort of the Silent Sakura.
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