HMX Cloud - 50g vs. Bsun Light Sakura
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Bsun Light Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between different options that cater to various preferences and typing styles. The HMX Cloud - 50g switch stands out for its clacky sound profile and a lighter touch, making it an attractive choice for those who enjoy a vibrant typing experience that offers a satisfying auditory feedback. With its silky smooth feel, this linear switch is ideal for gamers and typists seeking a responsive and exhilarating interaction. On the other hand, the Bsun Light Sakura caters to users who prioritize comfort and discretion, featuring an ultra-light feel that makes it perfect for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. Its silent operation is a boon for professionals working in shared environments, ensuring you can type away without disturbing those around you. While both switches operate silently and effectively, their unique characteristics serve different needs in the realm of typing experiences. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The HMX Cloud - 50g and the Bsun Light Sakura each utilize different materials for their top housing, which significantly influences their acoustic properties and tactile feedback. The Cloud - 50g's nylon top housing delivers a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's softer composition that absorbs sound waves effectively. This creates a muted, rounded auditory experience when typing, often favored by those seeking a quieter and more subdued keystroke. In contrast, the Light Sakura's polycarbonate top housing produces a higher-pitched, crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enables a more resonant and clear output, making it particularly well-suited for users who prefer a sharper auditory feedback, especially in scenarios involving RGB lighting where aesthetics matter.
Examining the bottom housing reveals a complementary contrast between these two switches. The HMX Cloud - 50g's nylon bottom housing further emphasizes its deeper sound quality, reinforcing the overall auditory experience characterized by a softer and rounder sound. This results in a more pronounced sound when bottoming out the key, creating a cohesive audio signature across its design. On the other hand, the Bsun Light Sakura features a polycarbonate bottom housing that aligns with its top casing’s sharpness, culminating in a brighter and more resonant sound output. The harder plastic enhances the feedback you receive on key release, steering users who prefer a pronounced sound towards the Light Sakura.
Ultimately, while the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Bsun Light Sakura diverge in their choice of housing materials, both switches present unique user experiences that cater to different preferences. Users seeking a softer, more muted auditory experience will find the Cloud - 50g appealing, while those desiring a sharper and more vibrant sound profile will lean towards the Light Sakura. However, despite their differences, both switches provide a nuanced typing experience by depending on the respective materials' influence on sound production. If users are interested in achieving similar tactile and acoustic results, they may consider hybridizing materials or adjusting their typing technique to either soften or enhance the sound profiles, thus customizing their experience to their liking.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch, we find notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Cloud - 50g has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Light Sakura offers a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. This makes the Light Sakura switch distinctively lighter in both its actuation and bottom out forces, appealing to those who prefer a softer typing experience. In contrast, the Cloud - 50g may be favored by those who enjoy a more substantial push feel due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces. Overall, users seeking a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming would prefer the Bsun Light Sakura, while those appreciating a firmer keystroke might opt for the HMX Cloud - 50g for its superior resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch, noticeable differences in travel distance can impact user experience. The HMX Cloud switch boasts a travel distance of 3.9 mm, making it slightly longer than the Bsun Light Sakura's travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference means that users of the Cloud switch might experience a more substantial key press, which some may find offers a deeper and more satisfying feel. On the other hand, the Light Sakura switch's shorter travel distance may cater better to gamers seeking quicker response times and a more agile typing experience. If users prioritize quicker actuation, the shorter Sakura switch could be the preferable choice, whereas those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke might opt for the Cloud switch's longer travel distance.
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 Bsun Light Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Sakura for $3.49.
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 is known for its clacky sound profile, which provides a bright and lively acoustic atmosphere while typing. This makes it appealing for enthusiasts who enjoy that characteristic auditory feedback. In contrast, the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch is designed to be virtually silent, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer discretion in their typing experience. This quiet nature ensures that users can type away without disturbing others, which is particularly beneficial in office environments or shared spaces.
When looking at the feel of each switch, the Cloud - 50g is noted for its silky smooth operation, offering a pleasant tactile experience that many typists find satisfying. This smoothness, combined with its lighter actuation weight, provides a responsive and enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, the Light Sakura switch delivers an ultra-light feel, making it exceptionally comfortable for extended typing sessions. Its design aims to reduce fatigue, offering a gentle touch that allows for prolonged use without discomfort.
In conclusion, the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switches cater to distinctly different preferences. The Cloud is ideal for those who appreciate a clackier sound and smooth feel, enhancing the overall typing experience. Meanwhile, the Light Sakura appeals to individuals looking for silence and comfort during extended typing periods. While they differ greatly in sound and feel, both switches highlight the wide variety of options available to mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, allowing newcomers to choose based on their personal preferences and typing environments.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch, your personal preferences and usage scenarios will be key factors. If you favor a lively typing experience that combines a light touch with a satisfying clacky sound, the Cloud - 50g is an excellent choice. Its 50g bottom out force provides a smooth feel perfect for enthusiasts who relish feedback and enjoy a brighter auditory profile. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter and more discreet typing experience, particularly in shared spaces or during extended sessions, the Light Sakura will serve you well. With a slightly lighter 43g bottom out force and a design focused on comfort, this switch excels in both silent operation and fatigue reduction, making it ideal for office environments. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your comfort needs, your environment, and your desired typing experience.
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