HMX Cloud - 50g vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the smooth linear feel of the HMX Cloud - 50g and the tactile feedback provided by the Cherry MX Brown. The Cloud - 50g switch offers a lighter typing experience with a clacky sound profile that delights those who enjoy a bright and engaging auditory feedback while typing. Its silky smooth action makes it an excellent choice for users seeking a fluid and uninterrupted keypress experience, ideal for both gaming and typing long documents. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown switch is synonymous with subtlety. It features a gentler tactile feel and subdued audio feedback, making it perfect for users who prefer a more muted experience without sacrificing the pleasant sensation of a physical bump. With its textured surface and bassy, low-pitched sound, the MX Brown is often favored by typists who appreciate a balance between performance and quiet operation, especially in environments where noise can be a factor. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles; 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Cloud - 50g and the Cherry MX Brown switches both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, resulting in similar sound profiles and tactile experiences. The nylon used in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, largely due to its softer composition. This softness allows the nylon to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience upon keystrokes. As such, users of both switches can expect a muted sound when typing, enhancing the overall feel and immersion during prolonged usage. This shared material composition translates to comparable acoustic properties, making both switches appealing choices for those who prioritize sound dampening in their typing experience.
While both switches feature nylon in top and bottom housings, the influence of housing materials on the overall typing experience is nuanced. The bottom housing, while constructed of nylon on both switches, plays a vital role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel of each keypress. Since both switches utilize the same material, they will inherently exhibit similar characteristics in feedback upon bottoming out. In contrast, the top housing influences the sound produced when releasing the key. Given that both the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Cherry MX Brown feature nylon here, users will experience a similar auditory response when lifting their fingers off the keys, reinforcing the cohesive performance of these switches.
In summary, the use of nylon in both the HMX Cloud - 50g and Cherry MX Brown components leads to a consistent typing experience characterized by dampened sound and tactile responsiveness. The relationship between the top and bottom housing materials means that while each housing contributes to different aspects of the typing experience, both switches ultimately deliver similar auditory qualities and feel due to their identical materials. This shared foundation in nylon construction ensures that whether one opts for the HMX Cloud - 50g or Cherry MX Brown, they can anticipate a comparable and satisfying typing environment.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch with its actuation force of 42 grams and bottom out force of 50 grams to the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, it becomes clear that the Cloud switch is lighter overall. The lower actuation force of the Cloud switch may appeal to users who prefer a fatigue-free typing experience during extended use, making it particularly suitable for prolonged work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Cherry MX Brown provide a more substantial feel, which some users may find preferable for feedback during typing. Overall, while the Cloud switch is designed for ease and comfort, the Cherry MX Brown offers a firmer keystroke experience, making the choice largely dependent on individual typing preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, we find that the Cloud - 50g features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Cherry MX Brown has a slightly greater travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Cloud - 50g the shorter switch of the two, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times due to the reduced distance required for actuation. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown, with its longer 4 mm travel distance, provides a more pronounced tactile feedback, making it a better option for those who appreciate a deeper keystroke. Ultimately, if you're looking for a quicker actuation, the Cloud - 50g is the preferable choice, whereas the Cherry MX Brown might cater to users who value a more substantial and traditional typing experience.
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 Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00 per 10 switches.
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
The sound profile of the HMX Cloud - 50g switch is characterized by its clacky nature, appealing to those who enjoy a bright, sharp audio experience while typing. This switch’s sound can be attractive in a lively environment where you want to make each keystroke feel pronounced. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown switch provides a more subtle auditory experience. With its bassy and low-pitched sound characteristics, the Browns deliver soft, muted feedback that maintains a pleasant typing atmosphere without overwhelming nearby individuals. This gentler sound makes it suitable for quieter workspaces, allowing for a balance between tactile feedback and auditory discretion.
Regarding feel, the HMX Cloud - 50g is known for its silky smoothness, which can enhance typing speed and comfort for those who prefer a fluid keystroke without interruptions or friction. This smooth feel can be especially appealing for long typing sessions where comfort is paramount. On the other hand, Cherry MX Brown switches introduce a textured feel with a gentle tactile bump that provides tactile feedback without being overly pronounced. This characteristic caters to users who wish to receive nuanced feedback during typing, allowing them to type with confidence while remaining aware of their actions without being distracted by excessive resistance.
In summary, the HMX Cloud - 50g offers a clacky sound and silky smooth feel, perfect for enthusiasts seeking an engaging typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown provides a subdued sound profile with a textured tactile feedback that appeals to those desiring a more subtle and controlled environment. Both switches cater to unique preferences in sound and feel, but those who gravitate towards auditory brightness and smoothness may find the Cloud - 50g more satisfying, while users who appreciate gentler, tactile feedback may lean towards the Cherry MX Brown. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preference for auditory and tactile experiences while typing.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you favor a lighter switch that provides a smooth and effortless typing experience, enhanced by a clacky sound profile, the Cloud - 50g is a fantastic option. Its 50-gram bottom out force makes it well-suited for fast typists or gamers who appreciate a bright auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle and refined typing feel, the Cherry MX Brown, with its 55-gram bottom out force and gentle tactile feedback, is an excellent choice. The subdued bassy sound and textured feel allow for a comfortable yet engaging typing experience, making it ideal for those who may spend long hours at the keyboard or prefer a more discreet sound profile. Ultimately, consider how each switch aligns with your typing style, working environment, and aesthetic preferences; both have their unique strengths to enhance your overall keyboard experience.
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