HMX Cloud - 50g vs. Outemu Cold Plum

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often look to find the perfect blend of sound and feel that enhances their typing experience. The HMX Cloud - 50g and the Outemu Cold Plum are both linear switches that cater to different preferences in tactile feedback and acoustics. The HMX Cloud - 50g is celebrated for its clacky sound profile, providing a lively and bright typing experience, alongside a silky smooth keystroke that many users relish. In contrast, the Outemu Cold Plum offers a thocky sound that is rich and satisfying, paired with fully nylon construction for added durability and a unique typing sensation. While the Cloud - 50g is ideal for those who enjoy a lighter touch and a more pronounced auditory feedback, the Cold Plum appeals to those seeking a deep, resonant sound and a more substantial actuation feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Cloud - 50g Linear

Outemu Cold Plum Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Cloud - 50g and the Outemu Cold Plum switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, resulting in similar acoustic properties for both switch types. Nylon's inherent characteristics contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, largely due to its softer plastic composition. This softness allows the material to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, leading to a rounder and duller auditory experience when typing. This commonality in housing material means that users can expect a comparable typing sound and feel from both switches, making them ideal for those who prioritize auditory warmth and subtlety during their typing sessions.

While both the Cloud - 50g and the Cold Plum switches share the same nylon material for their housings, the physical sensations derived from the two switches may still differ due to other factors such as actuation force and design performance. The Cloud - 50g may provide a unique threshold of feedback that differentiates it from the Cold Plum despite their shared nylon characteristics. The top housing of each switch will influence the sound produced when releasing a key, while the bottom housing will affect the tactile response and sound of bottoming out, creating a nuanced typing experience that varies between the two brands.

Ultimately, both the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Outemu Cold Plum switches capitalize on the beneficial acoustic properties of nylon. By distributing sound absorption and tactile feedback between the top and bottom housings, users of either brand can expect a similarly enriched typing experience. This common reliance on nylon facilitates a comparable typing sensation; therefore, while there may be nuances in user experience, the fundamental auditory characteristics will resonate closely between the two, appealing to enthusiasts seeking that specific sound profile.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force that cater to varying user preferences. The Cloud switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who favor long typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Cold Plum switch features a significantly heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, appealing to those who seek a more substantial typing experience. Due to these differences, the Cloud switch is ideal for those who prioritize comfort and ease during extended use, while the Cold Plum caters to users who enjoy a stronger tactile feedback. Overall, the lighter Cloud switch allows for easier activation, whereas the heavier Cold Plum caters to a different typing preference with its more deliberate force requirement.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it becomes apparent that the Cloud - 50g offers a longer travel distance at 3.9 mm, while the Cold Plum features a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This difference may influence user experience significantly; gamers and those seeking quicker response times might favor the Cold Plum for its shorter actuation distance, allowing for faster key presses. On the other hand, individuals who appreciate a more substantial feel when pressing keys might prefer the HMX Cloud - 50g, as its longer travel distance provides a more pronounced depth. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference regarding responsiveness versus depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch features a clacky sound profile that appeals to enthusiasts who prefer a brighter auditory experience while typing. This switch's lighter variant can bring out a more pronounced sound signature that many users find enjoyable. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum switches are characterized by a thocky sound profile. The combination of their fully nylon construction and sound design delivers a deeper, more satisfying tone, making it preferable for those seeking a unique thock with their keystrokes. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct sound signatures, influenced by factors like the choice of keyboard and keycap material.

When it comes to feel, the Cloud - 50g is known for its silky smoothness, providing a comfortable experience that is appealing during prolonged use. This smooth keystroke allows for effortless typing, making it a suitable choice for users who prioritize a seamless feel. In contrast, the Outemu Cold Plum switches are designed to deliver a smooth keystroke alongside their satisfying sound profile. This combination results in a tactile experience that enthusiasts find both enjoyable and engaging, catering well to those who appreciate the overall typing sensation. While the Core characteristics are somewhat laid-back, both switches excel in providing pleasing tactile feedback.

Considering all the information, both the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switches offer unique attributes that cater to different preferences. The Cloud - 50g’s clacky sound and silky smooth feel juxtapose nicely with the Cold Plum's thocky sound and satisfying keystroke. Choosing between them depends largely on personal taste, as each switch provides a distinct auditory and tactile experience. Regardless of your choice, both options promise an engaging typing experience that enthusiasts are sure to appreciate.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch will largely depend on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and actuation force. If you prefer a lighter switch that provides a clacky sound profile and a silky smooth feel, the HMX Cloud - 50g would be the ideal choice. It's particularly well-suited for those who enjoy rapid typing or gaming, as the lighter actuation force can reduce finger fatigue and increase speed. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more substantial typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a thocky sound profile, the Outemu Cold Plum will likely resonate more with you. This switch is excellent for users who favor a satisfying and distinct keystroke, making it a rewarding option for both typing and gaming. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your unique preferences: whether you value the lightness and brightness of the Cloud - 50g or the robust and resonant experience of the Cold Plum.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Cloud - 50g Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Cold Plum Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more