HMX Cloud - 50g vs. Outemu Red

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Outemu Red are two popular choices that cater to different preferences among typists and gamers alike. The HMX Cloud - 50g, celebrated for its clacky sound profile, offers a lighter touch that many enthusiasts appreciate, providing a bright and engaging typing experience along with a silky smooth keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Red, while also a linear switch, is known for its more subdued characteristics and straightforward functionality, appealing to those who prefer a quieter, more reliable option for fast-paced gaming or focused work sessions. Each switch has its unique allure—whether it's the Cloud's vibrant auditory feedback or the Red's solid performance—making them both worthy competitors in the realm of mechanical keyboards. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for your needs.

By the numbers

HMX Cloud - 50g Linear

Outemu Red Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Outemu Red switches, one can see a distinct difference in the top housing materials used. The Cloud - 50g utilizes nylon for its top housing, which is characterized by its softer plastic composition. This leads to a deeper and more muted sound profile when typing, as nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. In contrast, the Outemu Red features a polycarbonate top housing, providing a sharper and more resonant sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate contributes to a more crisp auditory experience, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a clearer sound output, especially beneficial when RGB lighting is employed due to polycarbonate's translucency.

On the other hand, both switches share the same material for their bottom housings—nylon. This is noteworthy because the bottom housing is critical in defining the bottom-out feel and sound when pressing the key down. With both the Cloud - 50g and Outemu Red using nylon for the bottom housing, users can expect a similar tactile sensation and sound when bottoming out the key, as both switches exhibit the characteristics of softer plastic. This shared nylon material creates a deep, fuller sound profile that will resonate similarly between the two, regardless of the different materials used in their top housings.

Considering the overall typing experience, the combination of distinct top housing materials and shared bottom housings sets the tone for what users can expect from each switch. While the Cloud - 50g's nylon top housing produces a rounded sound profile that blends well with its nylon bottom, the Outemu Red’s polycarbonate top results in a clearer and more defined auditory output. However, the lenience of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that both switches retain the familiar, fuller sound when a key is pressed all the way down. Therefore, while the sound profile may vary on release due to the differing top materials, the reinforced characteristics of nylon in the bottoms anchor the typing experience in a satisfying consistency across both switches.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX Cloud switch features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, in contrast to the Outemu Red's actuation force of 46 grams, making the Cloud switch easier to press for extended typing sessions. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Cloud switch is 50 grams, whereas the Outemu Red’s bottom out force is 62 grams. This indicates that the Outemu Red switch is heavier overall, which may be preferable for users seeking a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, if you favor lighter switches for comfort during long use, the HMX Cloud - 50g is the better choice; however, if you lean towards a firmer feel, the Outemu Red is more suitable.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, the Cloud - 50g features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Outemu Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the HMX Cloud - 50g the shorter option, offering a more responsive experience that may appeal to gamers seeking quicker keystrokes. In contrast, the Outemu Red's 4 mm travel distance provides a more traditional feel, which some users may find more comfortable or satisfying for deeper presses. Therefore, if you prioritize rapid response and efficiency, the Cloud - 50g may be the better choice, whereas if you prefer a more pronounced depth in key presses, the Outemu Red would be preferable.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Cloud - 50g switch delivers a clacky sound profile, which many typists find satisfying and engaging. This sound clarity can enhance the overall typing experience, making it especially appealing to those who prefer a more lively auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Red switch lacks specific sound characteristics detailed in its description, which may suggest a quieter and less pronounced sound output. This can contribute to a more subdued typing experience, potentially making it ideal for environments where noise must be minimized. However, it's important to remember that the actual sound produced can vary based on other factors such as the keyboard design and choice of keycaps.

When it comes to feel, the HMX Cloud - 50g switch is praised for its silky smooth operation, providing a seamless typing experience that many users appreciate. This smoothness can enhance typing speed and comfort, making long sessions more enjoyable. In contrast, the feel of the Outemu Red switch is unspecified, leaving it unclear how it might compare. Without additional information, one could assume that it may offer a straightforward linear experience, which typically focuses on minimal resistance and a direct keypress. However, without specifics, it's difficult to draw a direct comparison.

In conclusion, the HMX Cloud - 50g switch stands out with its clacky sound and silky smooth feel, making it a solid choice for enthusiasts seeking an engaging and efficient typing experience. Meanwhile, the Outemu Red switch, while lacking defined sound and feel characteristics, may still provide a more understated linear option for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences in sound and feel, with the potential for similar overall results based on individual keyboard setups and configurations.

Conclusion

To sum up, the choice between the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter switch that offers a smooth and clacky typing experience, the Cloud - 50g may be the ideal choice for you. Its 50g bottom-out force can lead to less finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions, making it an excellent option for those who enjoy a more dynamic feel and sound while typing. On the other hand, if you lean towards a firmer feel and prefer a switch that provides more resistance, the Outemu Red, with its 62g bottom-out force, might suit you better. While it may not have a distinct sound profile, its medium actuation force can offer a more grounded typing experience, potentially leading to better accuracy for those who type with greater force. Ultimately, consider the type of tasks you’ll be using your keyboard for—whether you prioritize speed, sound, or tactile feedback—as this will guide you in choosing between these two switches.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Cloud - 50g Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Red Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more