HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the SP-Star Yanyu mechanical keyboard switches, we can see that both are linear switches with unique characteristics to offer. The Cloud - 63.5g is favored for its clacky sound profile and heavier actuation force, making it ideal for enthusiasts who prefer a bright typing experience with a silky smooth feel. On the other hand, the Yanyu switches are known for their delicate typing experience and perfect for long typing sessions, thanks to their material blend that produces a crisp sound profile. While the Cloud - 63.5g offers a bouncy and high-pitched typing experience, the Yanyu provides a more neutral and subtle feel. 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
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g and SP-Star Yanyu both utilize nylon in their housing materials, which results in switches that elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, the Yanyu takes it a step further by incorporating a unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in its top and bottom housing. This blend offers a sound profile that is described as pleasant and slightly brighter compared to the Cloud - 63.5g's nylon housing. The Yanyu's blend may provide a more distinct typing experience for users looking for a switch with a bit more brightness in its sound profile.
In terms of the top housing, the Cloud - 63.5g's nylon material creates a duller and rounder sound due to its softer plastic properties. On the other hand, the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend offers a sound profile that is not particularly sharp but leans towards a brighter sound. This difference in sound profile showcases how the choice of housing material can impact the overall typing experience for users. Both materials have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel.
While both switches share the use of nylon in their housing materials, the Yanyu introduces an innovative blend that sets it apart from the Cloud - 63.5g. The split between the top and bottom housing in a switch allows for different qualities to be felt and heard during typing. The bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel contrasts with the top housing's influence on the sound when releasing a key. This split in housing materials highlights the intricate details that go into creating a unique typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch differ significantly in weight. The Cloud - 63.5g switch has an actuation force of 56 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy. In contrast, the Yanyu switch has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it lighter. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may gravitate towards the Yanyu switch for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial push feel may opt for the Cloud - 63.5g switch for a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and desired weight.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch boasts a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offers a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches are relatively close in terms of travel distance, with the Yanyu being the longer of the two. A 0.1 mm may not seem like a significant difference, but it can be noticeable to those who are sensitive to keyboard feedback. Gamers who value quicker response times may lean towards the HMX Cloud - 63.5g for its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the SP-Star Yanyu. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
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 SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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 is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, offering a sharp and snappy typing experience that is bright and percussive. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switch provides a more neutral and thocky sound, offering a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Depending on personal preference, the Cloud switch may cater more to those who enjoy a lively and sharp typing sound, while the Yanyu switch may be preferred by those looking for a softer and more mellow typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch is described as bouncy and creamy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation and a smooth and buttery typing experience. In contrast, the SP-Star Yanyu switch offers a mild, feathery, subtle, and polished feel, with a gentle typing experience that is comfortable for extended usage. The Cloud switch's bouncy and creamy feel may appeal to those who enjoy a lively and silky typing sensation, whereas the Yanyu switch's mild and feathery feel may suit those looking for a more gentle and comfortable typing experience.
Overall, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch and the SP-Star Yanyu switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Cloud switch provides a clacky and bouncy typing experience with a bright and sharp sound, while the Yanyu switch offers a more thocky and feathery typing experience with a deep and rich sound. Depending on whether you prefer a more lively and sharp typing experience or a softer and more subtle typing feel, you can choose between these two switches to achieve your desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a keyboard switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a clacky sound profile that provides a bright typing experience, then the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more delicate typing experience with a crisp sound profile, then the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by whether you prefer a heavier, spring-like feel with a clacky sound or a lighter, smoother feel with a thocky sound. Consider your typing preferences and choose the switch that best suits your typing style and needs.
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