HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the HMX Cloud - 63.5g, a linear switch, and the Jwick Taro, a tactile switch. The Cloud - 63.5g is favored for its clacky sound profile and heavier actuation force, making it ideal for enthusiasts who enjoy a bright typing experience with a silky smooth feel. On the other hand, the Taro switches offer a cozy typing experience with a medium-level of tactility and crisp clacks, perfect for those who prefer a more subdued and comfortable typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The primary difference between the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Jwick Taro lies in the composition and resulting sound profile. The Cloud - 63.5g utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic properties. On the other hand, the Taro features a polycarbonate top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This distinction highlights how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound feedback of mechanical switches.
Despite their differences, both the Cloud - 63.5g and the Jwick Taro share the use of nylon for the bottom housing. This commonality ensures that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing, as nylon's softer plastic properties absorb more sound than harder plastics. However, where they diverge is in their top housing material, with the Cloud - 63.5g's nylon creating a duller and rounder sound, while the Taro's polycarbonate produces a clearer and more resonant sound. These variations showcase how different housing materials can result in unique auditory experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
In considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it becomes clear that the top and bottom housings play distinct roles in shaping the overall sound and feel of a mechanical switch. The bottom housing's properties have a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing's qualities are more pronounced when the key is released. This division of roles emphasizes the importance of selecting the right housing material for each part of the switch to achieve the desired sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, it is clear that the Taro switch is the heavier of the two. The Cloud - 63.5g has an actuation force of 56 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Taro has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, but the Taro switch requires a slightly heavier force to bottom out. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Cloud - 63.5g may be the better choice, as it has a slightly lighter actuation force. However, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Taro switch may be more appealing due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch is 3.9 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. However, the Cloud - 63.5g offers a slightly more substantial depth for those who prefer a bit more resistance in their keystrokes. Overall, if you are looking for a shorter travel distance for quicker input, the Taro switch would be the preferable option, but if you prefer a bit more depth in your keystrokes, the Cloud - 63.5g would be the better choice.
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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 excels in providing a clacky and high-pitched experience that is sharp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro switch offers a neutral sound profile that is moderate and suitable for various settings. Both switches can give you satisfying auditory feedback, but if you prefer a crisper and more vibrant sound, the Cloud - 63.5g may be the better option for you.
In terms of feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch offers a bouncy and creamy typing experience that is characterized by a spring-like feedback and a smooth, silky sensation. On the contrary, the Jwick Taro switch provides a buttery and stepped feel, giving a smooth and fluid keystroke with a mild tactility that distinguishes stages within the keypress. Depending on your preference for a lively or more refined typing feel, you can choose between the two switches to suit your needs.
Considering all available information, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch and the Jwick Taro switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cloud - 63.5g switch is best for those who enjoy a bright and clacky typing experience with a bouncy and creamy feel, while the Jwick Taro switch caters to individuals seeking a cozy and neutral sound profile combined with a buttery and stepped tactile sensation. Ultimately, both switches provide unique typing experiences, and choosing between them will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a bright and clacky typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a cozy and tactile typing experience with a slightly higher bottom out force, the Jwick Taro tactile switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize sound profile and smoothness (Cloud - 63.5g) or tactility and comfort (Taro). Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so consider your typing style and preferences carefully before making a choice.
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