HMX Cloud - 50g vs. HMX Hibiscus
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the HMX Hibiscus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can greatly influence your typing experience, and the HMX Cloud - 50g and HMX Hibiscus switches offer distinct yet enticing options for enthusiasts. The Cloud - 50g, recognized for its clacky sound profile, delivers a lighter touch that caters to users who appreciate a bright and engaging typing experience. Its silky smooth feel makes it ideal for those who prioritize speed and responsiveness in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the HMX Hibiscus switch takes it a step further, offering unparalleled smoothness and a typing experience that's truly exceptional. With an ultra-light actuation force that surpasses 80% of comparable switches, the Hibiscus not only provides a crisp and satisfying clack but also ensures a delightful tactile feedback for users who enjoy an engaging auditory experience. Both switches showcase their unique attributes that cater to different preferences, whether it’s the lively feedback of the Cloud - 50g or the luxurious smoothness of the Hibiscus. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
T3
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Cloud - 50g and the HMX Hibiscus share a remarkable similarity in their construction, as both keyboards utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This material is recognized as a classic in switch housing, renowned for its capacity to deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile. By employing nylon in both the top and bottom housing, both models ensure a consistent auditory experience that is characterized by a duller and rounder sound. The softness of the nylon also contributes to sound absorption, enhancing the overall typing experience and making it more pleasant and satisfying.
While both the HMX Cloud - 50g and the HMX Hibiscus leverage the same nylon material in their construction, the performance attributes tied to each housing type will still manifest differently based on how the components interact. The bottom housing is critical during keypresses as it largely influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the qualities of the top housing become more prominent during key release. Therefore, even with identical materials, users may notice nuanced differences in the sound and tactile feedback when typing, influenced by the specific design and acoustics of the keyboard.
Despite these potential differences in user experience, the fundamental characteristics of both keyboards lend themselves to similar results in terms of auditory quality. Since both the HMX Cloud - 50g and HMX Hibiscus use nylon throughout, they are likely to produce a similar deep and satisfying typing sound profile. Users can expect a consistent feel and auditory feedback regardless of the model they choose, meaning that either keyboard will deliver an enjoyable typing experience that benefits from the sound-dampening properties of nylon, resulting in a harmonious and seamless interaction with the switches.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, both offer a similar actuation force of 42 grams, which provides a light typing experience conducive to long-term use, whether for work or extended gaming sessions. However, the bottom out forces do differ slightly: the Cloud - 50g has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Hibiscus features a lower bottom out force of 48 grams. This makes the Hibiscus slightly lighter overall. While both switches cater to those who prefer a softer touch, the Cloud - 50g provides a more substantial feel upon bottoming out, which might appeal to users who enjoy a stronger tactile feedback. In summary, while both have the same actuation force, the slight difference in bottom out forces offers a choice between a heavier or lighter final key press experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, it’s clear that they cater to different preferences. The Cloud - 50g features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, making it the longer option, while the Hibiscus has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference means that the Hibiscus may offer faster response times, which can be beneficial for gamers seeking quick actions. Conversely, the longer travel distance of the Cloud - 50g could provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether one prioritizes speed and responsiveness with the Hibiscus or a more traditional depth with the Cloud - 50g.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cloud - 50g 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 - 50g for $2.99.
The HMX Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus for $2.99.
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 - 50g linear switch delivers a clacky sound profile that enhances the typing experience, catering to those who prefer a brighter auditory feedback during their keystrokes. The HMX Hibiscus linear switch, on the other hand, also features a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, making it very appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate a dynamic auditory experience. Both switches share this clacky characteristic, making them suitable for users who enjoy a more engaging and lively sound, although the specific nuances may vary based on the keyboard construction and keycap choices.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cloud - 50g is known for its silky smoothness, providing a light and comfortable typing experience. This smoothness can enhance typing efficiency, especially for those who type for extended periods. Conversely, the HMX Hibiscus switch is celebrated for its unparalleled smoothness as well, creating a typing experience that is not only comfortable but also luxurious. While both switches offer a smooth feel, the Hibiscus may appeal even more to those seeking the ultimate in effortless keystrokes.
Overall, the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch each present their unique qualities, particularly in sound and feel. Both switches deliver a satisfying clacky sound, ideal for enthusiasts who value auditory feedback, and they both provide a smooth typing experience that can enhance productivity and comfort. Choosing between the two may ultimately come down to personal preference, especially in how they perceive the nuanced differences in sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Cloud - 50g and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences in both sound and feel. If you enjoy a slightly lighter actuation with a bright and clacky sound profile, the Cloud - 50g is your ideal option. This switch excels in creating a lively typing experience, making it perfect for those who appreciate a tactile and responsive setup, particularly during long typing sessions or fast-paced gaming. On the other hand, if you're in search of an ultra-smooth feel combined with a clacky and crispy sound signature, the Hibiscus switch is the way to go. It offers a more refined and pristine typing experience that is particularly appealing for users who prioritize smoothness and a satisfying auditory feedback. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize a lively, bright sound with a silky feel or an exceptionally smooth and poppy experience. Both switches offer light actuation forces, but your preference for sound and tactile feedback will guide you toward the perfect choice for your mechanical keyboard.
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