HMX Cloud - 50g vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often prioritize tactile feedback and sound profile, making the HMX Cloud - 50g and Dareu Master two intriguing options. The HMX Cloud - 50g, known for its lighter 50g actuation force, delivers a brighter, clackier sound that many typists find delightful. This switch offers a silky smooth feel, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy a lively typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Master balances medium weight with a polished design, providing a classic clack that resonates well with both casual users and seasoned typists alike. While both switches fall under the linear category and excel in smooth operation, their acoustic characteristics and actuation force present distinct experiences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Cloud - 50g and the Dareu Master exhibits contrasting housing materials that significantly influence their sound profiles and overall typing experience. The Cloud - 50g employs nylon for both its top and bottom housings, a material praised for its softer qualities that absorb sound effectively. This results in a deeper, fuller sound profile that is both muted and duller, offering a rounded acoustical experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Master utilizes Polyoxymethylene (POM) for its housings, which introduces its own unique sound characteristics. While POM also contributes to a deeper sound profile, it tends to produce a distinctly pleasing and muted acoustic, which can create a sense of cleanness in the auditory feedback.
While both the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Dareu Master share the common goal of providing a satisfying typing experience, the materials used in their construction result in different acoustical qualities. The nylon in the Cloud - 50g not only softens the sound but also contributes to a consistent feel throughout, promoting a more unified sensory experience during typing. In contrast, the POM housing of the Dareu Master, despite being harder than nylon, has a unique way of dampening sound. The difference in their material composition means that the sound produced at the bottom-out phase, primarily influenced by the bottom housing, will have a varied resonance between the two; while the Cloud - 50g delivers a rounder resonance, the Master’s POM gives a crisp certainty, albeit within a muted context.
In practice, users can expect similar results in terms of the proximity of the overall sound profiles, despite the different materials. While the Cloud - 50g delivers a deeper and fuller sound due to the absorptive nature of nylon, and the Dareu Master offers a clean yet muted sound thanks to POM, both aim for a satisfying tactile feedback experience. The key distinction lies in how these materials shape the auditory feedback during actuation and release. Users who appreciate the warm, rounded sound of nylon will find a semblance of that depth in the more unique properties of POM. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference regarding sound and feel, as each material offers a distinctive yet complementary typing experience.
Weight
The HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch present an interesting comparison in terms of actuation force, though the bottom out force for the Master remains unknown. The Cloud - 50g features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for longer typing durations without fatigue, ideal for anyone who works or plays for extended sessions. In contrast, the Dareu Master has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial tactile feedback and resistance in their keystrokes—although the lack of a specified bottom out force leaves a gap in the comparison. Therefore, while the Cloud - 50g is the lighter option overall, the Dareu Master may offer a more substantial feel, though the specifics of its bottom out force would be necessary for a complete evaluation. In essence, users can expect a potentially similar typing experience overall, depending on their preference for force and tactile feedback, but the Cloud - 50g is lighter, making it preferable for those who seek comfort during prolonged use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances between the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, a clear difference emerges. The Cloud - 50g has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Dareu Master features a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Master a more responsive option, appealing particularly to gamers who favor quicker key actuation for a competitive edge. Conversely, the Cloud - 50g, with its longer travel distance, might be more suitable for those who appreciate a fuller key press that provides a greater sense of depth and feedback. Thus, if you prioritize rapid response times, the Dareu Master would be the better choice, whereas if you enjoy a more pronounced feel under your fingers, the HMX Cloud - 50g stands out with its deeper 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 Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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 offers a bright and clacky profile that many typists find appealing. This sound is sharp and percussive, making it an enjoyable choice for those who appreciate an audible cue with each keystroke. The Dareu Master switch, on the other hand, also exhibits a clacky sound signature characterized by its crisp and bright qualities, similar to the Cloud - 50g. However, the overall acoustics can vary depending on the keyboard construction and keycap materials, so users can expect to achieve a similar experience between both switches while enjoying their unique clacky sounds.
Regarding the feel, the HMX Cloud - 50g is notably silky smooth, emphasizing a refined typing experience that reduces friction during key travel. This facilitates an enjoyable and effortless interaction with the keyboard. The Dareu Master switch shares qualities in this respect, presenting a mild feel that is approachable for most users. Its polished design enhances the overall smoothness, ensuring that every press feels refined and comfortable. While both switches prioritize smooth operation, the Cloud - 50g leans more toward a distinctly luxurious feel, whereas the Master maintains a balanced experience that caters to a wider audience.
In conclusion, both the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Dareu Master linear switches provide enjoyable typing experiences with clacky auditory feedback and a smooth feel. While the Cloud - 50g stands out with its exceptional silky smoothness, the Dareu Master offers a balanced, polished typing experience that is accessible to more users. Ultimately, both switches cater to enthusiasts who appreciate auditory and tactile satisfaction in their keyboard engagements. Depending on personal preferences regarding sound and feel, either switch could satisfy a newcomer seeking to enhance their typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, consider your personal preferences for sound and feel. If you appreciate a lighter switch that delivers a bright, clacky auditory experience, the HMX Cloud - 50g is likely your best bet. Its 50g bottom-out force offers a lighter typing experience, perfect for those who favor a responsive feel and enjoy the excitement of a more pronounced sound profile. On the other hand, if you want a more balanced typing experience with a sophisticated touch, the Dareu Master switch may be more appealing. It strikes a medium weight and offers a mildly clacky sound, making it approachable for a broader audience while providing a polished and smooth operation. The Master’s well-rounded characteristics can enhance your typing without overwhelming the senses. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize lightweight, crisp feedback versus a satisfying balance of feel and sound in your typing experience.
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