HMX Cloud - 50g vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves comparing options that both deliver exceptional typing experiences but cater to different preferences. The HMX Cloud - 50g, known for its clacky sound profile, is a lighter variant that offers a bright, lively typing experience without sacrificing smoothness. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy a more responsive feel and the playful acoustics that accompany their keystrokes. Conversely, the Cherry Nixie switches are celebrated classics that provide a substantial heft and a textured typing experience. With their roots in traditional designs enhanced by the updated materials from Cherry’s recent MX2A update, these switches boast a “thocky” and low-pitched sound that resonates deeply with many keyboard aficionados. While the Cloud - 50g shines for its lightweight and lively nature, the Cherry Nixie appeals to those who favor a more robust and tactile engagement. 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
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The HMX Cloud - 50g and the Cherry Nixie both feature housing made entirely from nylon, which is recognized as a traditional and highly regarded material in the keyboard switch community. This shared characteristic results in a similar typing experience for both switches. The nylon construction helps to create a sound profile that is deeper and fuller than those produced by switches made from harder plastics. This is primarily due to nylon's relatively softer composition, which allows for greater sound absorption. Consequently, both the Cloud - 50g and Nixie switches offer a duller and rounder sound when typing, ensuring a comfortable auditory experience for users.
In analyzing the bottom housings of both switches, we find that they again share the same nylon material. The structural qualities of the bottom housing significantly influence the overall feel and sound when a key bottoms out. Since both housing components are made from nylon, the switches will exhibit similar behaviors regarding key presses. The bottom housing's ability to soften the bottom-out impact ensures a harmonious transition when a key is pressed down and released, amplifying the combined effect of the switch's nylon construction on the overall typing experience.
If the top and bottom housings of either switch were made from different materials, one would expect variations in their acoustic qualities and typing feel. However, with both the Cloud - 50g and Cherry Nixie utilizing nylon for both the top and bottom housings, the user experience remains consistent. The top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, while the bottom housing shapes the tactile response during key presses. Since both switches harmoniously incorporate nylon throughout, they are poised to deliver a similar and satisfying typing experience marked by a rich sound profile and comfortable feel, allowing users to enjoy the benefits of this material choice without compromise.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, their actuation and bottom out forces reveal significant differences in typing experience. The Cloud - 50g is designed for lighter use, with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, as it requires less effort to trigger a keystroke and complete a press. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie switch features a notably heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, catering to those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. This heavier force may contribute to a more satisfying tactile feedback for users who enjoy a firmer resistance when pressing keys. Ultimately, the HMX Cloud - 50g is the lighter option while the Cherry Nixie switch is the heavier choice, appealing to different user preferences in typing and gaming environments.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, there is a slight difference to note. The Cloud - 50g has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Nixie measures at 4 mm. This means that the Nixie offers a longer travel distance, catering to those who may prefer a more substantial keystroke feel, typically associated with traditional switch designs. In contrast, the Cloud - 50g's shorter distance can provide a quicker response time, making it more appealing for gamers who favor fast actuation. Ultimately, if you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Cloud - 50g could be the better choice, while the Nixie is suited for those who appreciate a deeper keypress.
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 Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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 highlighted by its clacky quality, providing a bright and lively auditory feedback that appeals to enthusiasts who appreciate a more vibrant typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie switch is characterized by its deep, thocky sound that delivers a rich and satisfying acoustic presence distinct from the higher-pitched notes of the Cloud switch. The Nixie's low-pitched tone contributes to an inherently mellow sound that contrasts sharply with the Cloud's brighter notes, creating a different auditory landscape for users depending on their preferences. It's worth noting that the overall sound can be influenced by the choice of keyboard casing and keycaps, which could potentially alter this perception further.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cloud - 50g switch is known for its silky smooth experience, providing an effortless keystroke that many typists enjoy. This smoothness can lead to a more fluid typing experience, making it easier for users who prioritize speed and rapid, repetitive keystrokes. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie switch presents a textured feel, offering noticeable friction as keys are pressed. While some users may find the texture adds a satisfying tactile feedback, others might prefer the Cloud's smoother action. This difference in feel can significantly impact overall typing comfort and performance, depending on personal preferences.
In conclusion, the HMX Cloud - 50g and Cherry Nixie linear switches cater to distinctly different tastes within the mechanical keyboard community. The Cloud - 50g provides a clacky and smooth experience, making it ideal for those who enjoy a lively auditory feedback and a fluid typing action. Conversely, the Nixie switch offers a thocky sound and textured feel that appeals to users seeking a more substantial and tactile experience. Ultimately, both options will deliver rewarding results in their own right, allowing typists to select their ideal switch based on their preferred sound and feel characteristics.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch will depend on your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a lighter feel and a brighter auditory experience, the Cloud - 50g is an excellent choice, particularly for those who enjoy a smoother typing experience with a clacky sound profile. This switch excels for users who type quickly or in a gaming context, allowing for effortless key presses without the fatigue that heavier switches can induce. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial typing experience with a classic thocky sound, the Cherry Nixie would be more suitable for you. With a heavier actuation force and a textured feel, it delivers a satisfying tactile response that many enthusiasts find rewarding, especially during long typing sessions. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you favor a light and smooth keystroke or a heavier, more textured typing experience that evokes nostalgia for the traditional mechanical keyboard feel. Each switch has its unique strengths, allowing you to tailor your keyboard setup to best suit your needs.
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