HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves drawn to the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Wuque Studio WS POM+, both of which are linear switches but offer distinctly different typing experiences. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g is celebrated for its clacky sound profile and heavier actuation force, making it ideal for those who crave a bright and bouncy feedback with every stroke. Its silky smoothness enhances the tactile response, appealing to users who enjoy a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the WS POM+ stands out with its all-POM construction, delivering a deep, satisfying "thock" sound and a buttery-smooth keystroke that many users find incredibly gratifying. While both switches cater to linear switch enthusiasts, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g leans towards a more energetic and bright typing experience, whereas the WS POM+ offers a richer sound profile and a smoother feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
56g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Wuque Studio WS POM+, it becomes evident that both switches utilize distinct materials that affect their acoustic profiles. The Cloud - 63.5g features a nylon top and bottom housing, known for producing a sound that is deeper and fuller compared to harder plastics. Nylon's softer composition allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller, rounder auditory experience. This property makes the Cloud - 63.5g an ideal choice for users seeking a classic switch feel and sound, where the typing experience is characterized by a muted and rich layer of sound.
On the other hand, the WS POM+ incorporates POM (Polyoxymethylene) in both its top and bottom housings. While POM shares some sound-absorbing qualities with nylon, it exhibits a unique sound profile that is also categorized as deep but distinctly different in its resonance. The POM design tends to create a slightly more muted sound, drawing from its own material properties. This material is known for its durability and is often preferred for its operational smoothness under typing conditions, giving the WS POM+ a slightly different texture and experience compared to the Cloud - 63.5g.
Despite the differences in material, both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ aim to deliver a similar auditory experience—one that caters to enthusiasts who appreciate a deeper sound profile. While nylon and POM differ fundamentally, the combination of the top and bottom housings in both switches will provide users with a sound that resonates well in both cases; therefore, users can expect a satisfying typing experience whether choosing the classic nylon or the contemporary POM. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may boil down to personal preference regarding the feel and unique character each material brings to the overall typing dynamics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, clear differences emerge. The Cloud switch has an actuation force of 56 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy, while the WS POM+ offers a lighter touch with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, placing it in the medium-light range. This distinction means that typists or gamers who favor a substantial typing experience may prefer the heavier Cloud switch, while those who seek a lighter keystroke for extended typing or prolonged gaming sessions might opt for the lighter WS POM+. Overall, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch is the heavier option, while the WS POM+ is the lighter choice, ultimately catering to different preferences in typing feel and force sensitivity.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Cloud - 63.5g features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, making it the longer option, while the WS POM+ offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference may appeal to different preferences: those who enjoy a more responsive feel might lean towards the WS POM+, while users seeking a more substantial depth in each keystroke might prefer the HMX Cloud's longer travel distance. Ultimately, your choice should align with your typing style—if you favor quick response times, the shorter 3.6 mm travel of the WS POM+ would provide a slight advantage, whereas the 3.9 mm of the Cloud could enhance your typing experience if you appreciate a deeper press.
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 Wuque Studio WS POM+ comes in at $3.90 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 boasts a clacky and high-pitched audio profile, delivering a sharp, bright, and percussive tone with each keystroke. This sound can certainly appeal to enthusiasts who appreciate an engaging auditory experience while typing. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ produces a deep, satisfying "thock" sound signature, which tends to be lower in pitch and offers a richer auditory experience. While both switches cater to different auditory preferences, the exact character of their sound will inevitably vary depending on factors such as the keyboard they are mounted on and the choice of keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g is characterized by its bouncy and creamy sensation. This combination provides a delightful, spring-like feedback that makes typing lively and engaging, alongside a silky-smooth keystroke experience that allows fingers to glide effortlessly over the keys. The WS POM+, although lacking specific descriptors for feel, is highlighted as delivering an unparalleled typing experience, suggesting it may offer its own unique blend of smoothness and feedback that may rival the creamy feel of the Cloud switch. However, without further details, the exact nuances of the WS POM+ in terms of tactile feedback remain unknown.
Overall, both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches present distinct qualities that will appeal to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. The Cloud switch's bright, clacky sound and bouncy, creamy feel provide an energetic typing experience, while the WS POM+ offers a deep thock sound and an arguably exceptional overall typing experience. Choosing between these switches will largely come down to personal preference regarding sound and feel, but either option promises a satisfying experience tailored to different user desires.
Conclusion
In summary, the choice between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch ultimately boils down to your typing preferences and the experience you're looking to achieve. If you lean towards a medium-heavy switch with a clacky sound profile and enjoy a bouncy, creamy feel, the Cloud - 63.5g is ideal for you. This switch excels in delivering a bright and crisp auditory experience that can enhance the enjoyment of your typing sessions, making it perfect for those who relish an engaging and lively keyboard feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light switch that delivers a deep, satisfying "thock" sound, alongside a buttery-smooth keystroke, then the WS POM+ should be your go-to choice. This switch is designed for those who value a more subdued auditory experience while still enjoying a silky typing sensation. Thus, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize a heavier feel with a clacky sound or a lighter touch with a rich thock.
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