HMX Cloud - 50g vs. Outemu Brown
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Outemu Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, each offering distinct advantages for different typing experiences. The HMX Cloud - 50g switch is celebrated for its clacky sound profile and silky smooth keystrokes, making it ideal for enthusiasts who prefer a bright and responsive typing sensation, particularly in gaming and fast-paced typing environments. In contrast, the Outemu Brown switch, known for its tactile feedback, provides a bump at the actuation point, which many users find satisfying for typing and offers a more deliberate feel with each keystroke—perfect for those who appreciate feedback without the noise of a clicky switch. While both switches cater to different preferences and styles, the choice ultimately comes down to whether you prioritize a smooth, linear feel or a tactile response. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
Polycarbonate
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 housing materials for the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Outemu Brown switches showcase distinct characteristics that significantly influence the overall sound and tactile feedback experienced during use. The Cloud - 50g features a nylon top housing, known for absorbing sound and producing a deeper, fuller auditory profile. This softer material dampens the impact when typing, resulting in a sound that is more subdued and rounded, which can provide a warm typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Brown employs a polycarbonate top housing that emits a sharper, higher-pitched sound due to the rigidity of the material. This creates a more pronounced acoustic response that is crisper and clearer, making it appealing for users who prefer a vibrant keystroke sound.
When examining the bottom housings of both switches, an interesting similarity appears. Both the HMX Cloud - 50g and Outemu Brown utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which introduces a deeper and fuller sound profile as well. This shared material means that while the top housings differ, the bottom-out experience remains consistent in terms of sound quality and feel. The nylon bottom housing absorbs sound effectively, contributing to a more muted keystroke feel that balances the sharper sounds from the polycarbonate top of the Brown switch, allowing for an overall cohesive typing experience despite the variation in the top housing material.
In essence, while the differences in the top housing materials lead to contrasting sound profiles—deeper and rounder for the nylon of the Cloud - 50g versus sharper and crisper for the polycarbonate of the Outemu Brown—the commonality of nylon in the bottom housings mitigates these differences. The auditory experience during typing is thus a blend of these influences, with the nylon absorbing some sound and maintaining a consistent feel across both switches. Therefore, while one switch may offer a more resonant sound profile and the other a clearer note during the typing process, the overall performance remains harmonious due to the shared properties of the nylon bottom housing.
Weight
The HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch features a notably lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize comfort during long typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Brown tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial feel favored by those who appreciate a stronger push back while typing. The difference in actuation and bottom out forces highlights the Cloud switch's suitability for extended use without fatigue, while the Brown switch offers a tactile feedback that can enhance the typing experience for users who prefer a more defined response. Overall, the HMX Cloud - 50g is the lighter option, whereas the Outemu Brown is the heavier choice, catering to different preferences in feel and typing dynamics.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, the two exhibit a slight difference that may influence user preference. The Cloud - 50g features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Outemu Brown has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the HMX Cloud - 50g the shorter option, providing a more responsive typing experience that is often favored by gamers seeking quicker key presses. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown's longer travel distance of 4 mm falls into the more traditional range, offering a sense of deeper engagement that some users may find more comfortable for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches should depend on whether you prioritize responsiveness or depth in your key presses.
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 Outemu Brown comes in at $3.10 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch offers a clacky sound profile that appeals to enthusiasts who favor a bright typing experience. This lively auditory feedback can enhance the enjoyment of typing, making it feel engaging and responsive. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown switch does not possess any specific sound qualities mentioned, which suggests that it may produce a more muted or neutral auditory experience. However, it is essential to remember that the overall sound produced by any switch can vary significantly based on factors such as the keyboard’s construction, the materials used for the keycaps, and even the surface underneath the keyboard.
When examining the feel of these switches, the HMX Cloud - 50g is characterized by its silky smoothness, providing a seamless typing experience that is both satisfying and comfortable. This smoothness is particularly appealing to those who prefer linear switches, as it allows for rapid key presses without any tactile bumps. In contrast, the Outemu Brown switch generally has a tactile feel, which means it provides noticeable feedback at the actuation point. This tactile response can help typists know when a key has been activated without having to bottom out, which can enhance typing accuracy and comfort over extended use.
In conclusion, the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Outemu Brown switches offer different auditory and tactile experiences for users. The Cloud - 50g stands out with its clacky sound and silky smooth feel, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a more inviting and lively typing experience. Meanwhile, the Brown switch's tactile feedback could attract users who prefer a more traditional typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference, as well as the type of keyboard build and keycap choices, which can significantly influence the overall feel and sound regardless of the switch selected.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you lean towards a lighter touch and enjoy a smoother, seamless typing experience, the HMX Cloud - 50g is an excellent fit. Its 50-gram actuation force provides a responsive feel, allowing for quick keystrokes, making it ideal for fast-paced typing or gaming sessions. Additionally, the clackier sound profile adds an engaging auditory feedback that many users find satisfying. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced tactile response and don't mind a heavier key press, the Outemu Brown switches may suit you better. With a heavier actuation force of 65 grams, these switches offer a satisfying bump that can enhance your typing accuracy, especially for those who do a lot of data entry or traditional typing. While the Brown switches do not have the same clacky sound as the Cloud - 50g, their quieter operation might be more appropriate in shared workspaces or gaming environments where noise can be a concern. Ultimately, it comes down to whether you prioritize a light and smooth feel with an engaging sound or a tactile feedback with a bit more resistance.
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