HMX Cloud - 50g vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the qualities of different options. The HMX Cloud - 50g offers a lighter touch and a clacky sound profile, making it an appealing choice for those who value a bright and responsive typing experience. Its silky smooth feel allows for effortless keystrokes, perfect for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red switch delivers a slightly heftier feel, known for its deeper sound profile that provides a more robust typing experience. With a combination of responsiveness and a satisfying auditory depth, the MX Red is a staple in keyboard culture, particularly favored by gamers. While both switches fall into the linear category, they cater to very different preferences in typing sensation and auditory feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal 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
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Cloud - 50g and the Cherry MX Red switches both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, resulting in a highly similar auditory and tactile experience when typing. Nylon as a housing material is renowned for its ability to absorb sound, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile in both switches. This characteristic leads to a subdued acoustic output, creating a duller and rounder sound when compared to switches made from harder plastics. Therefore, users can expect a consistent typing experience across both switch types, with both exhibiting a pleasant sound signature and tactile feedback that enhances the overall typing pleasure.
The key difference, however, arises in the application of these nylon housings within the context of their respective switch designs. While both the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Cherry MX Red feature nylon in their construction, the design specifics and other components, such as the actuation mechanism, may differentiate their overall performance and feel. For instance, while both types produce a similar sound profile due to their nylon housings, the unique specifications of the switches can result in a different actuation force and travel distance. As a result, users may notice subtle distinctions in performance despite the shared material composition, making each switch feel slightly tailored to different preferences.
Ultimately, while the use of nylon in both the HMX Cloud - 50g and Cherry MX Red switches creates parallels in sound quality and tactile feedback, the nuances in switch design lead to varied experiences. The impact of the nylon housing remains consistent in generating a rich sound output, but the overall responsiveness can shift depending on the precise construction of each switch. As such, while enthusiasts may appreciate the similarities, they may also value testing each switch to discover the best fit for their individual typing styles, emphasizing the personal nature of keyboard preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, noticeable differences emerge. The Cloud - 50g switch has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which classifies it as a lighter switch suitable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red switch has a slightly higher actuation force at 45 grams, but its bottom out force remains unspecified. This means that while the Cloud switch offers a softer key feel with less resistance, providing more comfort during extended use, the MX Red's actuation requires a bit more force, giving it a slightly heavier feel overall. Although both switches may ultimately provide a satisfying typing experience, the lighter actuation force of the HMX Cloud - 50g is likely to be favored by those who prioritize comfort during long use, whereas the Cherry MX Red might appeal to users who enjoy a bit more resistance for a more substantial tactile experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, we find that the Cloud - 50g features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Cherry MX Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the HMX Cloud switch has a shorter travel distance, making it potentially more responsive for users who prefer quicker actuation, particularly in gaming scenarios. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial feel when pressing the keys. Both switches cater to different preferences: the shorter distance of the Cloud - 50g is ideal for those seeking faster response times, whereas the Cherry MX Red suits users who favor a deeper and potentially more satisfying keystroke.
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 Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 offers a clacky sound profile that is likely perceived as bright and lively, appealing to those who enjoy a more energetic auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red switch features a thocky and low-pitched sound that produces a deeper, richer auditory experience. The MX Red's sound is characterized by a satisfying "thud" that resonates as you type, creating a robust auditory backdrop. Keep in mind that the sound produced by either switch can vary based on the keyboard construction, keycap material, and overall setup, so personal experience may differ.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cloud - 50g is known for its silky smooth typing experience, providing a friction-free sensation that many typists find appealing. This quality makes it particularly suited for fast, uninterrupted typing. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red switch features a textured feel, which means users may encounter a subtle resistance as they press the keys. While some enthusiasts appreciate this added tactile feedback, others might prefer the Cloud switch's smoother operation, underscoring individual preferences in the tactile experience.
In conclusion, both the HMX Cloud - 50g and Cherry MX Red linear switches cater to distinct typing preferences, offering differing sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Cloud switch is ideal for users who favor a bright, clacky auditory experience combined with a silky smooth feel, while the MX Red provides a deeper, thocky sound with a textured feel that some may find more satisfying. Ultimately, your choice between these two options will depend on personal preference regarding sound and tactile feedback, but either can yield enjoyable and satisfying results in a mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Cherry MX Red linear switches, consider your typing preferences, sound profiles, and the overall tactile experience you desire. If you favor a lighter touch with a clacky sound that offers a bright typing experience, the HMX Cloud - 50g is an excellent choice. Its 50g bottom-out force allows for effortless key presses, making it ideal for fast typists or those who enjoy long typing sessions without fatigue. Additionally, the silky smooth feel of the Cloud switch can make for enjoyable gaming and general use. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more robust feel and a thocky, low-pitched sound profile, the Cherry MX Red is your go-to option. Its deeper sound provides a satisfying auditory experience and the textured feel offers some character that many typists find appealing. Ultimately, your decision should closely align with your personal preferences—consider how you type and what sounds you enjoy most while using your keyboard.
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