HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Akko V3 Silver Pro both offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g is favored for its clacky sound profile and heavier actuation force, providing enthusiasts with a bright and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is specifically designed for gamers, offering a smooth keystroke and pleasing bassy sound with light actuation force and shortened travel distance for quick response times.
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
40g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Akko V3 Silver Pro, it is evident that they both feature nylon top housings. This means that typing on switches from either of these keyboards will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. However, the V3 Silver Pro stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in material highlights the importance of housing materials in determining the overall sound quality of a keyboard.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Cloud - 63.5g and the V3 Silver Pro feature nylon bottom housings. This means that the typing experience on these switches will still provide a deep and full sound profile. However, it's worth noting that the choice of nylon for both top and bottom housings in the V3 Silver Pro could result in a more consistent sound profile throughout the typing experience, compared to the split between top and bottom qualities in the Cloud - 63.5g. This showcases how the material composition of the housing can impact the overall typing experience and sound quality of a keyboard.
Overall, the difference in housing materials between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Akko V3 Silver Pro plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile of these keyboards. While both keyboards feature nylon housing materials for the bottoms, the V3 Silver Pro stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile. This difference highlights the importance of housing materials in determining the sound quality and overall typing experience of a keyboard, showcasing how even subtle variations in materials can result in distinct sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it is clear that the V3 Silver Pro is the lighter option. The Cloud - 63.5g has a medium-heavy actuation force of 56 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the V3 Silver Pro has a light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. Those who prefer a lighter feel may opt for the V3 Silver Pro, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke and bottom out. On the other hand, the Cloud - 63.5g provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on the weight preference of the user, with the V3 Silver Pro catering to those who like a lighter touch and the Cloud - 63.5g appealing to individuals who appreciate a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the V3 Silver Pro has a shorter travel distance compared to the Cloud - 63.5g. The Cloud - 63.5g with its 3.9 mm travel distance offers a bit more depth when pressing down on the key, which may be preferred by those who like a more substantial feel. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro with its 3.3 mm travel distance provides a quicker response time, making it a popular choice among gamers who prioritize speed. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific feel that each individual prefers in their keyboard.
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 V3 Silver Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Silver Pro for $3.10.
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 is known for its clacky and high-pitched profile, producing sharp and crisp sounds with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch also features a high-pitched sound, providing a pleasing bassy tone that is favored by gamers. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Cloud switch appealing to those who enjoy a bright typing experience, while the V3 Silver Pro switch targets gamers looking for a smooth and enjoyable sound while gaming.
In terms of feel, the Cloud - 63.5g switch is described as bouncy and creamy, offering a lively and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch provides an easy-to-press feel, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the V3 Silver Pro switch is highlighted for its feathery, polished, and silky sensations, offering a comfortable and responsive typing experience that is well-suited for gaming and other sustained typing activities.
Overall, both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences and purposes. While the Cloud switch provides a clacky sound and bouncy, creamy feel for enthusiasts seeking a bright typing experience, the V3 Silver Pro switch delivers a smooth, bassy sound and easy-to-press, feathery feel tailored for gamers looking for optimal performance during gaming sessions. Depending on your personal preferences and specific use cases, both switches offer distinct advantages that can enhance your overall typing or gaming experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, consider your preferences and use case. If you value a bright and clacky typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Cloud - 63.5g is the way to go. Its silky smooth feel and vibrant sound profile cater well to enthusiasts who enjoy a unique typing sensation. On the other hand, if you are a gamer seeking a switch with a light actuation force and shortened travel distance for optimal speed and responsiveness, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is your best bet. Its effortless keystrokes and pleasing bassy sound make it ideal for gaming scenarios where quick actions are crucial. Ultimately, choose the switch that best aligns with your typing style and needs.
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