HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Bsun Taichi, both of which are linear switches favored by mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, several distinguishing features emerge that cater to different preferences. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g is celebrated for its clacky sound profile, designed for those who revel in a bright typing experience. Its heavier actuation force of 63.5g provides a bouncy and creamy feel, perfect for users who appreciate tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi is engineered for a smoother and more stable experience, boasting a long-pole stem and extended springs that produce a delightful high-pitched bottom-out sound. While both switches deliver a linear typing experience, the Cloud - 63.5g stands out for its auditory character, while the Taichi excels in smoothness and consistency. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Bsun Taichi, distinct differences emerge, particularly in the composition of their top housings. The Cloud - 63.5g features a nylon top housing, known for its ability to create a deeper, fuller sound profile. This characteristic stems from nylon's relatively softer and more sound-absorbent nature, which dampens sharp sounds and produces a duller, rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi incorporates a polycarbonate top housing, recognized for its ability to generate a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate results in a clearer and more resonant output, making it particularly appealing for users who prefer brighter sound characteristics, especially when there is RGB lighting involved.
Both switches showcase nylon in their bottom housings, which creates a level of consistency that aligns their auditory experiences in certain respects. The nylon bottom housing in both models contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile, accentuating the tactile feedback and bottom-out sound characteristics. As a classic material for switch housings, nylon serves to dampen sound effectively, creating a sensation of softness when the key is pressed down. This shared quality means that regardless of the differences in their top housings, the Cloud - 63.5g and the Taichi will provide similar sensations during key presses, especially when bottoming out.
When it comes to the overall impact of housing materials on the user experience, the distinction between the top and bottom housings plays a crucial role. The Bsun Taichi's clear polycarbonate top allows for a brighter sound during release, while the Cloud - 63.5g's nylon top provides a softer auditory experience on key release. Meanwhile, both switches will feel similar during the key press itself due to their nylon bottom housings. Therefore, the cumulative experience of typing on these switches can yield similarities in tactile feel yet provide contrasting sound profiles based on their respective top housing materials. Users seeking a deeper, rounder sound will appreciate the Cloud - 63.5g, while those desiring a sharper, crisper sound will gravitate towards the Bsun Taichi, emphasizing the nuanced differences in their design.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Cloud switch features a heavier actuation force of 56 grams, meaning it requires more effort to trigger a keystroke compared to the Taichi, which has a significantly lighter actuation force of 40 grams. This lighter actuation force makes the Taichi more appealing for users who prefer prolonged typing sessions or gaming, as it reduces fatigue. However, the Cloud’s bottom out force is quantified at 63.5 grams, reflecting a substantial and tactile feeling when bottoming out, while the bottom out force for the Taichi switch remains unspecified. Despite this lack of data, we can infer that due to the lighter actuation force of the Taichi, its bottoming out experience may also be less pronounced compared to the Cloud's substantial feel. As a result, while the HMX Cloud switch provides a heavier interaction suitable for users who prefer a more forceful typing experience, the Bsun Taichi switch caters to those who desire a lighter and potentially less tiring option. Overall, if you're looking for a heavier and more tactile experience, the Cloud is the better choice, whereas the Taichi is optimal for comfortable, extended use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, there is a noticeable difference: the Cloud switch features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Taichi switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that if you prioritize responsiveness, the Taichi switch may appeal to you due to its slightly shallower travel, potentially allowing for quicker key presses, which is often favored by gamers. Conversely, the Cloud switch offers a more substantial travel distance that some might find provides a more satisfying depth, making it preferable for users who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback during their typing or gaming experience. Ultimately, while both switches cater to different preferences, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g's longer travel distance could be seen as advantageous for those who favor a hearty keypress, while the Bsun Taichi's design aligns with the trend towards shorter, swifter keystrokes.
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 Bsun Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.
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 offers a distinct clacky sound profile that stands out with its crisp and bright characteristics. This sharp and snappy auditory feedback provides an engaging typing experience, as each keystroke feels percussive and satisfying. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi linear switch is celebrated for its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, which is crafted with a long-pole stem and extended springs for added clarity. While both switches exude high-pitched tones, the Cloud - 63.5g adds an element of richness to its sound, making it particularly appealing for those who enjoy an expressive auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Cloud - 63.5g excels with its bouncy and creamy characteristics, delivering a delightful typing sensation that feels both lively and smooth. The bouncy feedback gives the user a spring-like response, which makes repetitive typing enjoyable. Additionally, the silky smoothness contributes to a seamless experience, akin to gliding your fingers over the keys. There’s no mention of the feel characteristics of the Taichi switch, leaving a gap in comparison. Therefore, while enthusiasts may enjoy the Cloud - 63.5g for its tactile qualities, the Taichi’s feel remains an unknown.
In conclusion, both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Bsun Taichi linear switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the Cloud switch providing a fuller, clacky sound, while the Taichi delivers a high-pitched clarity. The HMX switch shines in its tactile feedback, boasting a bouncy and creamy feel that enhances the typing experience, while the Taichi's feel remains unspecified. Ultimately, if you seek a combination of sound and tactile satisfaction, the Cloud - 63.5g may be the preferable option, whereas the Taichi could attract those who prioritize high-pitched sound clarity.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel. If you enjoy a more tactile and audible typing experience, the Cloud - 63.5g is an excellent choice. With its clacky sound profile and medium-heavy 63.5g actuation force, this switch offers both a lively response and a satisfying auditory feedback that can enhance your typing enjoyment, especially if you gravitate towards a more vibrant and engaging experience. The bouncy and creamy feel of the Cloud switch makes it particularly appealing for enthusiasts who appreciate that springy sensation and silky gliding motion as they type. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch that prioritizes smoothness and stability without the emphasis on sound, the Bsun Taichi switch could be more suitable. Although specific weight data is unavailable for the Taichi, its design features long-pole stems and extended springs which contribute to a notably smooth keystroke experience. This might be ideal for those who favor a quieter yet still satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, consider what aspects are most important to you—whether it's the engaging clack of the Cloud switch or the ethereal smoothness of the Taichi—and choose accordingly to elevate your mechanical keyboard experience.
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