HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Dareu Sky POM both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g is a linear switch known for its bouncy and clacky feel, making it ideal for enthusiasts who enjoy a bright typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM, also a linear switch, stands out for its premium quality crafted from POM material, offering exceptional smoothness and a gentle actuation force. While the HMX Cloud - 63.5g is categorized as having a high-pitched sound profile, the Dareu Sky POM is recognized for its low-pitched tones. Each switch has its own strengths, but diving deeper into their specific characteristics will help you determine the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
56g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Dareu Sky POM, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for their top housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Sky POM uses POM for its top housing, which also creates a pleasing sound profile that is deeper and more muted compared to nylon. While both materials offer similar sound characteristics, they may differ in the level of roundness and dullness that can be achieved.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Cloud - 63.5g and the Sky POM opt for nylon as their material of choice. This selection results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches, thanks to nylon's ability to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. The bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch is crucial, as it contributes to the overall typing experience. Despite the identical choice of material for the bottom housing, the overall typing sound and feel may still vary due to other design factors.
It is important to note that when the top and bottom housings differ for a switch, the qualities of each material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing plays a key role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Both the Cloud - 63.5g and the Sky POM showcase how housing materials can impact the overall sound profile and typing experience of a switch, even if they use similar materials. Ultimately, the choice between nylon and POM for housing material will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, there are notable differences. The Cloud - 63.5g has a slightly higher actuation force of 56 grams compared to the Sky POM's 40 grams. This means that users may need to apply more pressure to register a keystroke on the Cloud switch. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cloud - 63.5g has a force of 63.5 grams, whereas the Sky POM's bottom out force is unknown. It is important to note that a higher actuation force can provide a more substantial typing experience, while a lighter actuation force may be preferred for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the Cloud - 63.5g appears to be the heavier option in terms of actuation force, while the Sky POM is lighter in this aspect.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. However, the HMX Cloud has a slightly longer travel distance than the Sky POM. Gamers may prefer the HMX Cloud for its slightly deeper key press, which can provide a more satisfying feel during intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM may be preferred by those who prefer a quicker and more responsive key press due to its slightly shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Dareu Sky POM has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky POM for $4.98.
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 known for its clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving a bright and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch offers a low-pitched sound, which is typically more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches.
When it comes to feel, both switches offer a smooth typing experience. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch is described as bouncy and creamy, providing a lively and elastic feedback sensation, with keys that offer a silky smooth feel. Similarly, the Dareu Sky POM switch is also characterized as buttery and creamy, offering a seamless and uniform typing sensation, with a smooth and fluid keystroke experience.
In conclusion, both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and Dareu Sky POM linear switches offer high-quality experiences in terms of sound and feel. While the Cloud - 63.5g switch caters to enthusiasts looking for a bright and clacky typing experience, the Sky POM switch provides a premium feel at an accessible price point with a low-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, but either option will deliver a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a clacky and bouncy typing feel with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Cloud - 63.5g may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile and a gentler actuation force, the Dareu Sky POM switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific typing sensation you desire. Consider trying out both switches if possible to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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