HMX Cloud - 50g vs. Outemu Dustproof Green
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the unique qualities of various options, such as the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch. The HMX Cloud - 50g is celebrated for its lighter actuation force and clacky sound profile, offering users a bright and smooth typing experience that can enhance productivity and comfort during long typing sessions. In contrast, the Dustproof Green switch, while not defined by any particular standout feature, caters to those who appreciate the tactile feedback and audible click that accompanies each keystroke, adding a sense of satisfaction to every press. Both switches serve different preferences: the Cloud - 50g for a more subdued yet responsive action, and the Dustproof Green for a traditional, clicky typing experience. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches, a notable distinction arises from the composition of their top housings. The Cloud - 50g features a nylon top, which is associated with a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer properties. This inherent softness allows the material to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a rounder, more muted auditory experience. In contrast, the Dustproof Green utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This outcome is primarily attributed to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, which enhances clarity and resonance, making it ideal for those who prefer a more pronounced audio feedback during typing. Therefore, users seeking a warmer, more subdued typing experience may gravitate towards the Cloud - 50g, while those aiming for sharper auditory cues might favor the Dustproof Green.
On the other hand, both switches feature nylon for their bottom housings, which leads to a similar sound profile in this area. The presence of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches means that they will each provide a duller and rounder bottom-out sound and feel when pressed. This shared characteristic in the bottom housing results in a consistent auditory experience regardless of the top housing material, allowing for a blend of characteristics that draw from both materials. Consequently, users may appreciate the depth and warmth brought by the nylon bottom in both switches, creating a cohesive feel that may benefit those who desire comfort during extensive typing sessions.
Ultimately, the combination of different top housing materials and the shared nylon bottom illustrates the multifaceted nature of switch design. The contrasting impacts of nylon and polycarbonate in the top housing will dictate the unique auditory signatures of each switch, while the similar nylon bottom ensures that users can still enjoy a robust and consistent bottoming-out experience. Thus, it’s clear that while the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Outemu Dustproof Green diverge in their top housing materials, the commonality in their bottom housing means that they can still yield comparable results in terms of feel, ensuring satisfaction across different typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, significant differences emerge in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Cloud switch has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a notably lighter option, ideal for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming without fatigue. In contrast, the Dustproof Green switch features a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, which provides a more substantial and tactile typing experience that some users prefer for feedback and control. Therefore, for those seeking a lighter touch for comfort, the HMX Cloud is the better choice, while the Outemu Dustproof Green caters to users who enjoy a firmer key press. Overall, the Cloud switch’s lower force is beneficial for long sessions, while the heavier Dustproof Green switch offers a distinct push feel for a more engaging typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This means that the HMX Cloud switch provides a more responsive feel due to its shorter travel distance, making it more suitable for gamers who favor quick key presses for faster response times. In contrast, the Dustproof Green switch, with its traditional 4.0 mm travel distance, may appeal to users who prefer a deeper, more pronounced keystroke experience that feels less abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual preferences regarding key travel and tactility.
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 Dustproof Green 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 features a clacky sound profile, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy an engaging auditory experience while typing. The brightness of its sound can enhance the pleasure of each keystroke, creating a lively atmosphere. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch does not have a defined sound profile mentioned, which leaves its auditory characteristics somewhat unknown. However, clicky switches typically produce a distinct and sharp sound when actuated, which could provide a satisfying auditory feedback if this switch aligns with the typical behavior of clicky variants.
When considering feel, the HMX Cloud - 50g is recognized for its silky smooth operation, allowing for effortless key presses and minimizing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. This smoothness can be particularly beneficial for users who prioritize speed and fluidity in their typing. Conversely, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Green is also not specified, leaving it open to interpretation. Generally, clicky switches like this one are designed to offer a tactile bump at the actuation point, which can enhance the typing experience by providing clear feedback, but the specifics of the feel would need to be confirmed through hands-on testing.
In conclusion, the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch excels in both sound and feel, offering a clacky auditory experience and a silky-smooth interaction that many typing enthusiasts appreciate. The Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, while lacking specific qualities in the provided information, could still provide an engaging tactile and auditory experience typical of clicky switches. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, with the Cloud - 50g aiming for a bright and smooth experience, while the Dustproof Green may appeal to those who enjoy clicking feedback, though its characteristics remain less defined.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, it entirely depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you favor a lighter actuation force and a smooth typing experience, the Cloud - 50g is an excellent choice. It provides a silky feel that enhances fast typing and is perfect for those who enjoy a more subdued yet responsive experience without the hindrance of a tactile bump. This switch is particularly suitable for typing long passages or gaming where rapid key presses are essential. On the other hand, if you appreciate a bit of resistance in your keystrokes and enjoy auditory feedback, the Dustproof Green’s heavier 80-gram bottom-out force might be more to your liking. The clicky sound adds a rich character to your typing experience, satisfying both tactile and auditory senses, making it ideal for typists who revel in the nostalgia or tactile engagement often found in older mechanical keyboards. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize a smooth, lightweight feel or a heavier, clicky experience that enhances tactile feedback during typing sessions.
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