HMX Cloud - 50g vs. Durock Ice King Linear
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Durock Ice King Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly impact your typing experience, and two popular options on the market are the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Durock Ice King Linear, both linear switches but with distinct characteristics. The HMX Cloud - 50g is celebrated for its clacky sound profile and lighter 50g actuation force, making it a favorite among enthusiasts who appreciate a bright and engaging typing experience. This switch offers a silky smooth feel, ideal for those who enjoy a more dynamic auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear is known for its full nylon construction and generous factory lubrication, providing a silky smooth and frictionless experience that many typists find appealing. Additionally, its subdued sound profile allows for quieter operation, making it a great option for office environments or shared spaces. While both switches deliver a satisfying linear feel, each caters to different preferences, be it the HMX Cloud's playful sound or the Ice King's polished silence. 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
42g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Nylon
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
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Durock Ice King Linear, it is important to note that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. Nylon is a renowned material in the mechanical switch community, known for its sound-dampening properties and ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. Since both switches share this same material composition, users can expect a similar auditory experience when typing on either switch. The nylon in both models absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a rounder and more muted sound, which is often preferred by those looking for a quieter keyboard experience.
The design and impact of nylon on the overall feel of each switch might be subtle but important. For both the Cloud - 50g and the Ice King Linear, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback experienced when the key is fully pressed down. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, emphasizing a smoother return. Since both switches are constructed from nylon, the tactile sensations and sound profiles will share similar characteristics, leading to a comparable typing experience. This consistency in material choice allows both switches to highlight the advantages of nylon while differing primarily in their actuation force and overall design nuances.
Despite being made of the same material, variations in design aspects such as stem structure and spring tension could lead to differences in typing feel and feedback between the two switches. While users will enjoy comparable acoustic properties due to the nylon housing in both switch designs, they might notice variations in responsiveness or actuation weight. The Cloud - 50g is designed to provide a different actuation force than the Ice King Linear, which could affect overall user preference. Ultimately, while the material similarities provide a foundation for a similar sound and feel, the unique design features of each switch contribute to the distinct typing experiences they offer.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch to the Durock Ice King Linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Cloud - 50g switch has a relatively light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience, ideal for long hours of use or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Ice King Linear switch features a heavier actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel. As a result, the Cloud - 50g is the lighter option, whereas the Ice King Linear is heavier, appealing to different user preferences. While the actuation forces present a clear distinction, their bottom out forces further highlight this disparity, as the Cloud switch offers a softer landing compared to the firmer response of the Ice King.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, whereas the Durock Ice King Linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Cloud switch offers a more pronounced keystroke experience, which may appeal to those who prefer deeper key presses for a more fulfilling feel during typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Ice King switch, with its shorter travel distance, caters to gamers seeking quicker response times and a snappier feel when pressing keys. As a result, if responsiveness is a primary concern, the Ice King would be the preferable choice. Conversely, if a heartier key feel is desired, the HMX Cloud switch's longer travel distance would be more suitable. Ultimately, the distinction in travel distances indicates that personal preference plays a significant role in selecting the switch that best aligns with an individual's typing or gaming style.
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 Durock Ice King Linear has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Linear for $4.20.
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 the realm of sound, the HMX Cloud - 50g switch is characterized by its clacky sound profile. This vibrancy is favored by enthusiasts seeking a bright and engaging auditory experience while typing. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Linear switch offers a more subdued sound. With its dampened impact, the Ice King produces a quieter keystroke that is less intrusive, making it ideal for those who prefer a subtler auditory feedback without sacrificing the tactile enjoyment of typing. Both switches will vary in sound based on your choice of keyboard and keycaps, but they cater to distinctly different auditory preferences.
When it comes to feel, the Cloud - 50g is also recognized for its silky smoothness, providing a satisfying typing experience. However, the Ice King Linear switch takes smoothness to another level, boasting descriptors such as frictionless and creamy, which signify an exceptionally effortless keystroke. This switch allows for a fluid travel that minimizes resistance, creating a typing experience that feels nearly weightless. Additionally, the Ice King’s polished finish enhances its smoothness, further optimizing the sensation as fingers glide over the keys. Both switches provide a smooth typing experience, but the Ice King offers multiple layers of tactile luxury.
In conclusion, the HMX Cloud - 50g and Durock Ice King Linear switches are targeted towards different user experiences in terms of sound and feel. While the Cloud - 50g will provide a bright auditory feedback with a smooth feel, the Ice King Linear offers a more muted sound profile with an exceptionally silky, frictionless typing experience. Choosing between them ultimately boils down to whether you prefer a more vibrant or subdued sound accompanied by a standard versus an enhanced typing sensation. With their inherent qualities, either option can contribute to a satisfying experience, depending on your personal preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear switch, consider what aspects of the typing experience are most important to you. If you prefer a lighter switch that offers a clackier sound and a bright typing experience, the Cloud - 50g is an excellent choice. Its 50-gram bottom-out force makes it ideal for fast typists who enjoy a quicker response and a less strenuous typing session. On the other hand, if you’re seeking a smoother and more subdued experience, the Ice King Linear will likely serve you better. Its 62-gram bottom-out force offers a bit more resistance, making it suitable for those who desire a heftier feel and appreciate the silky, frictionless typing sensation enhanced by its factory lubrication. Essentially, if you prioritize sound and a lighter touch, go for the Cloud - 50g; if you value a silky, creamy typing experience with a medium force and a subtler sound profile, the Ice King Linear is your go-to. Ultimately, your preference will dictate your ideal switch, so consider testing both to find your perfect fit.
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