HMX Cloud - 50g vs. Outemu Silver

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical switch for your keyboard, the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Outemu Silver stand out as two compelling linear options, each with its own unique characteristics. The HMX Cloud - 50g is celebrated for its lighter actuation force and a clacky sound profile, which makes it an appealing choice for enthusiasts who prefer a bright and engaging typing experience. Users can expect a silky smooth feel, making it an excellent option for both typing and gaming scenarios. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver lacks specific standout features but remains a solid linear switch choice, often noted for its reliable performance and fast actuation, which can benefit gamers looking for quick key presses. While both switches cater to linear enthusiasts, they offer different tactile and acoustic experiences, making each suitable for various user preferences. 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 Silver Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Outemu Silver switches, there are notable differences primarily in their top housings. The Cloud - 50g utilizes a nylon top housing, which is characterized by its softer composition that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softness in the nylon allows it to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a sound that is more muted and rounded when compared to the sharper, crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing found in the Outemu Silver. The polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, enhances resonance, which leads to a higher-pitched sound profile that is particularly appealing to those who prefer a brighter auditory experience.

However, the bottom housings of both models share a similarity, as they both feature nylon materials. This consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing means that both switches will exhibit comparable characteristics in terms of the sound and feel when the keys bottom out. The nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile in both switches, providing a common ground that may appeal to users who appreciate a rich auditory feedback when typing. Thus, despite the differing effects of the top housings, the nylon bottom in both creates a consistent experience regarding how both switches feel under pressure.

In terms of aesthetic considerations and performance with RGB lighting, the Outemu Silver's polycarbonate top housing stands out due to its translucency, making it particularly suitable for designs that incorporate lighting. While the Cloud - 50g does not offer the same visual appeal in an RGB context, it compensates with a unique, warm auditory signature that users may find desirable. Ultimately, while the top housing materials distinctly affect the sound profiles and aesthetics of the two switches, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures that the underlying tactile experience remains somewhat uniform, resulting in switches that can satisfy varied preferences across sound and performance criteria.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Cloud - 50g features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, compared to the Outemu Silver’s slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. Furthermore, the bottom out force of the Cloud - 50g is measured at 50 grams, again lighter than the Silver's bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that users who prefer a lighter switch for longer typing sessions or extended gaming might favor the HMX Cloud - 50g, as its lower forces can reduce finger fatigue. In contrast, those who desire a more substantial feel and prefer a heavier switch experience could opt for the Outemu Silver, with its medium-heavy actuation and bottom out forces providing a firmer feedback. Thus, while both switches serve different preferences in typing experience, the Cloud is the lighter option, promoting ease of use, whereas the Silver cater to those who appreciate a stronger push.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, we find that the Cloud - 50g has a shorter travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Outemu Silver measures 4 mm. This means that users who choose the Cloud - 50g will benefit from a slightly more responsive feel, which can be advantageous for gaming and fast-paced tasks. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more pronounced feedback, appealing to those who prefer a deeper keypress. Ultimately, the preference between these switches will depend on the user's individual needs: if responsiveness is a priority, the Cloud - 50g is the better option, while if a more traditional and hearty typing experience is desired, the Outemu Silver would be preferable.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch boasts a clacky sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a bright and engaging auditory experience while typing. This characteristic can be particularly satisfying during long typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Outemu Silver linear switch lacks specific sound characteristics, leaving it somewhat ambiguous in terms of auditory feedback, which may lead to a quieter typing experience. However, it's essential to remember that the overall sound produced by either switch can be influenced by the choice of keyboard case, mounting style, and keycap materials.

When it comes to feel, the HMX Cloud - 50g offers a silky smooth typing experience, allowing for seamless keystrokes without any tactile bumps or resistance, making it ideal for rapid typing or gaming scenarios. In comparison, the Outemu Silver linear switch does not provide defined information about its feel, which leaves potential users with uncertainty. If it follows the typical linear switch formula, one might expect a smooth and consistent key press, but without specific details, it's hard to make a direct comparison.

In summary, the HMX Cloud - 50g's clacky sound and silky smooth feel create a distinct typing experience that many enthusiasts might find appealing. The Outemu Silver linear switch, while lacking specific descriptors, could potentially offer a quieter and smooth typing experience, provided it adheres to general linear switch behavior. Ultimately, both switches can deliver satisfying results, with the HMX offering a clearer auditory experience while the Outemu’s specifics remain undefined.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, the choice largely depends on your personal preference for switch characteristics. If you favor a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of 50 grams, the Cloud - 50g is likely to be your best bet. This switch offers a delightful typing experience with its clacky sound profile and smooth feel, making it a fantastic option for anyone who enjoys feedback while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a bit more resistance with a medium-heavy actuation force of 65 grams, the Outemu Silver might be the better choice for you. While it doesn’t possess a distinct sound profile, its stability may appeal to those who prefer a more controlled and deliberate typing experience. Ultimately, your selection should be informed by whether you seek a lively and vibrant actuation or a more solid and resistant feel as you type.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Cloud - 50g Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Silver Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more