HMX Cloud - 50g vs. HMX Lotus (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cloud - 50g and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences among typists and gamers alike. The HMX Cloud - 50g, known for its lighter actuation force of 50g, delivers a clacky sound profile and a silky smooth feel, making it ideal for those who favor a bright and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) features a medium-heavy weight of 62.5g, providing a bouncy sensation with a bright, resonant sound that enhances the joy of each keystroke. While the Cloud switch is great for users who prioritize speed and a lighter touch, the Lotus switch appeals to those who enjoy a more substantial feel with satisfying auditory feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
POM
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
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 50g and the HMX Lotus (Heavy), it's evident that both models utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This shared choice of material is significant as nylon is recognized for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The softness of nylon contributes to its sound-dampening properties, making the overall auditory experience duller and rounder. Consequently, users of both the Cloud and Lotus can expect a similar acoustic quality, characterized by an enriched sound that enhances the typing experience in both models.
Despite the similarities in housing materials, one key distinction lies in the impact of the switch's construction on the typing experience. Since both the Cloud - 50g and the Lotus (Heavy) utilize nylon throughout, the tactile feedback and sound profile will largely depend on how the two switches are engineered. The impact of the bottom housing is more noticeable when bottoming out, while the top housing influences the sound emitted when a key is released. Therefore, although both designs use similar materials, the overall feel and sound when typing may vary based on the specific switch design and configuration applied in each model.
Ultimately, the construction techniques and any variances in design elements can lead to different typing experiences, despite the uniformity in materials. While users can expect a consistent sound profile due to both models' nylon housing, subtle differences in switch design may impart unique characteristics to each typing experience. In essence, even though the housing materials are the same, it is the interplay of design variations that will ultimately differentiate the user experience between the HMX Cloud - 50g and HMX Lotus (Heavy).
Weight
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, a notable difference in actuation and bottom out forces emerges. The HMX Cloud - 50g features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions and gaming, as users can type with less effort. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience that some users prefer. The difference in actuation forces reflects the Cloud's lighter nature, suitable for those who prioritize comfort, while the Lotus appeals to users who enjoy the tactile feedback of a firmer switch. Ultimately, if you're looking for a lighter switch, the HMX Cloud - 50g is the better choice, whereas the HMX Lotus (Heavy) will cater to those who like a heavier feel when typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, we find a notable difference between the two. The Cloud - 50g boasts a travel distance of 3.9 mm, making it the longer option, while the Lotus (Heavy) features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that users of the Cloud - 50g can expect a more pronounced key press, which some might find preferable for a deeper, more satisfying typing experience. Conversely, the Lotus (Heavy), with its shorter travel distance, may appeal to those seeking quicker response times, commonly favored by gamers. Ultimately, this distinction allows users to choose the switch that best aligns with their personal preferences for key travel and responsiveness.
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 Lotus (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus (Heavy) 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 is noted for its clacky sound profile, offering a bright and lively auditory experience that many enthusiasts find satisfying during typing sessions. Conversely, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch also features a bright, resonant sound that captures attention without being overly harsh. While both switches provide a vibrant soundscape, the Cloud may cater more to those who appreciate a pronounced clack, while the Lotus offers a sound that balances resonance with a deeper tone, making each keystroke a delightful experience. It’s important to remember that the sound produced by either switch can vary based on the keyboard's design and choice of keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cloud - 50g is celebrated for its silky smoothness, enhancing the overall typing experience. This makes each keystroke effortless and pleasant, appealing to users who enjoy quick and responsive feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus (Heavy), weighing in at 62.5g, provides a super bouncy feel that encourages a more pronounced actuation force. This heavier switch rewards users with tactile feedback that can enhance the sensation of each keystroke, offering a different kind of satisfaction than the lighter Cloud switch. While both switches are linear, they deliver contrasting experiences, allowing typists to choose based on their personal preference for weight and feedback.
In summary, both the HMX Cloud - 50g and HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences that will please mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Cloud provides a clacky, smooth typing experience, the Lotus switches deliver a bouncy feel and resonant sound with a heavier actuation force. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prefer a lighter, airy typing experience or a more substantial touch with vibrant auditory feedback. Regardless of your preference, both options promise an engaging and enjoyable typing sensation.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Cloud - 50g and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switches ultimately boils down to your personal typing style and preferences. If you prefer a lighter keystroke that offers a silky smooth feel along with a bright, clacky sound profile, the Cloud - 50g is an excellent option. This switch is particularly well-suited for those who enjoy rapid typing or gaming sessions where speed and responsiveness are paramount. On the other hand, if you gravitate towards a more tactile and slightly heavier feel, the Lotus (Heavy) switch—with its 62.5g bottom out force—provides a delightful bouncy sensation that can enhance your typing experience. Additionally, the bright, resonant sound signature of the Lotus adds a layer of auditory pleasure that complements its weight. Thus, if you find joy in the act of typing and prefer a more immersive and tactile engagement with each keystroke, the Lotus (Heavy) might be your go-to choice. Ultimately, both switches cater to different aspects of the typing experience, so consider what feels right for you before making your final decision.
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