HMX Cloud - 50g vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cloud - 50g and Outemu Silent Ocean offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The HMX Cloud - 50g, with its lighter actuation force and clacky sound profile, appeals to enthusiasts who crave a bright and lively typing experience, delivering a silky smooth feel that enhances both speed and accuracy. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean, while also a linear switch, is designed for those who prioritize stealth and comfort, providing an exceptionally quiet typing experience without sacrificing performance. While the Cloud - 50g is perfect for users who relish an audible feedback in their keystrokes, the Silent Ocean is ideal for quiet environments or shared workspaces where noise can be an issue. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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 HMX Cloud - 50g and the Outemu Silent Ocean, a notable distinction arises from their choice of materials for the top housing. The Cloud - 50g features a nylon top housing, which is compendiously described as producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic is attributed to nylon's relatively softer composition, allowing it to absorb sound waves and thereby create a mellower auditory experience. Conversely, the Silent Ocean opts for a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for its stiffer nature, which results in a sharper and more crystalline sound profile. This difference not only affects the auditory quality of the switches but also aligns with their aesthetic appeal; the translucency of the polycarbonate makes it a favorable choice for showcasing RGB lighting, an aspect that may attract users seeking a vibrant visual experience alongside their typing sounds.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches share a commonality in utilizing nylon material, which inherently contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This parallel allows for a cohesive auditory experience when the bottom housing characteristics of both switches are observed. As nylon is softer than many alternative plastics, this shared material enhances the switches' bottom-out sound while cushioning the tactile feedback. This consistency in the bottom housing allows users to expect similar results in the bottom sound and feel during typing, despite the differences in the top housing materials. Consequently, while the Cloud - 50g offers a contrasting sound from the Silent Ocean at the peak of the keystroke, both switches work harmoniously in creating a rich sound when bottoming out.
Ultimately, the divergence between the Cloud - 50g's nylon top housing and the Silent Ocean's polycarbonate top housing creates pronounced differences in the overall sound profile and aesthetic appeal of the switches. However, the common use of nylon in their bottom housings champions a shared auditory experience. While one switch may resonate with a warmer and more subdued tone, the other brings forth a brighter and more prominent sound due to the interplay between its top housing materials. This nuanced tuning of each switch's sound profile, influenced by the respective upper and lower materials, ensures that users of either switch can enjoy tactile and aural experiences, albeit with unique outcomes at different points of the keystroke.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cloud - 50g features an actuation force of 42 grams, making it relatively light and easier for extended typing sessions, while its bottom out force is 50 grams. In contrast, the Silent Ocean switch requires a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and has a significantly higher bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This means that the Cloud switch is lighter overall, offering a gentler push feel ideal for longer use, while the Silent Ocean provides more resistance and a more substantial keystroke experience. Therefore, users who prioritize ease of use during extensive typing or gaming may prefer the Cloud - 50g switch, while those who favor a stronger, more tactile response may opt for the Outemu Silent Ocean.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, it is clear that they differ slightly. The HMX Cloud - 50g features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Outemu Silent Ocean has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is a bit longer. This distinction means that users who prefer a more responsive keystroke may lean towards the Cloud - 50g, as its shorter travel distance allows for quicker key actuation. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key might find the Silent Ocean more appealing due to its deeper travel distance. Overall, the difference, albeit small, caters to varying preferences in tactile feedback and responsiveness.
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 Silent Ocean 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 is best known for its clacky sound profile, which provides a bright and engaging auditory experience that many enthusiasts find enjoyable. This lively sound contributes to the overall typing experience, making each keystroke feel more pronounced and satisfying. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch does not have a defined sound profile, which indicates it may not produce any prominent sound during use. Although the sound can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard case and keycap material, if you're looking for a keyboard with a quieter experience, the Silent Ocean may be the better choice.
When it comes to feel, the Cloud - 50g offers a silky smooth experience that enhances the tactile feedback as you type. This smoothness makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions and can provide a satisfying sensation with each keystroke. In contrast, information on the feel of the Silent Ocean switch remains unknown, which makes it difficult to compare it directly. However, if you're seeking a smooth typing experience, the Cloud - 50g would be the clear preference here.
In conclusion, the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch presents a lively sound, along with a smooth keystroke that appeals to typing enthusiasts, while the characteristics of the Outemu Silent Ocean remain largely undefined, particularly in terms of feel. If you prefer a more engaging auditory experience and smoothness during typing, the Cloud - 50g is the way to go. Without specific information on the Silent Ocean, it may be a less compelling option for those who prioritize these qualities. Ultimately, your choice should depend on whether you value an expressive sound profile and tactile smoothness or if you prefer a quieter, potentially less distinguished typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, you’ll want to consider your personal preferences regarding actuation force, sound, and overall typing experience. If you prefer a light touch with a "clacky" sound profile that provides a bright and engaging typing experience, the HMX Cloud - 50g, with its 50-gram actuation force, is a fantastic choice. Its silky smooth feel enhances this experience, making it ideal for extended typing sessions when you want to enjoy a lively auditory and tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you are someone who prefers a medium-heavy actuation force with a quieter output for a more discreet environment, the Outemu Silent Ocean switch would serve you better with its 65-gram bottom out force. Though it lacks a specific sound profile, its quieter operation allows you to type without interrupting others around you. Ultimately, your individual typing style and environment will dictate your choice between these two options, ensuring you select the switch that best aligns with your needs.
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