HMX Cloud - 50g vs. HMX Perky
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the HMX Perky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right switch for your mechanical keyboard, the HMX Cloud - 50g and the HMX Perky offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The HMX Cloud - 50g is characterized by its clacky sound profile and lighter 50g actuation force, appealing to enthusiasts who relish a bright typing experience; its smooth feel promotes fluid typing for those who value both speed and responsiveness. In contrast, the HMX Perky switches feature softer, glittery nylon housings that deliver a neutral yet deeply satisfying typing experience, with a notably shorter travel distance that enhances efficiency during rapid key presses. While both switches are linear, the choice between theCloud - 50g’s vibrant auditory feedback and the Perky's compact, cushy feel ultimately depends on individual typing styles and needs. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
T2
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Cloud - 50g and the HMX Perky both utilize nylon as the primary material for their top and bottom switch housings, ensuring a consistent sound profile and tactile experience across both models. Given that nylon is a classic switch housing material, both models are designed to elicit a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The inherent properties of nylon, which includes its softer plastic nature, contribute to a more muted and rounded acoustic profile compared to switches made from harder plastics. This similarity allows users to expect comparable auditory experiences when using either the Cloud - 50g or the Perky, as both will effectively absorb sound and create a rich typing environment.
Moreover, the uniformity in housing materials extends to the impact each housing has on the typing experience. With both the Cloud - 50g and the Perky utilizing nylon for both their top and bottom housings, the interaction of these materials will shape the overall feel and sound of each keypress. The bottom housing—in this case, also made of nylon—will significantly influence the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a satisfying response when the keys are fully pressed down. Conversely, the top housing will contribute more to the acoustic characteristics during the release of the key. Thus, users can expect not only a similar auditory profile but also a synergistic tactile sensation whether they are typing on the Cloud - 50g or the Perky.
Despite the differences that might exist in other factors, such as weight or design specifics, the consistency in housing materials between the HMX Cloud - 50g and HMX Perky ensures a harmonious typing outcome. Since both switches utilize the same nylon construction, the interaction of these materials in both models promotes a similar depth of sound and overall feel. This commonality allows enthusiasts and casual users alike to experience the same quality and satisfaction with their typing interactions, facilitating a seamless transition from one switch to the other while maintaining the expectation of performance and auditory richness.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, we find that both offer a relatively light typing experience, suitable for extended use in typing or gaming sessions. The Cloud - 50g has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Perky is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 43 grams and a similar bottom out force of 50 grams. Despite their differences in actuation force, both switches share the same bottom out force, which ensures that users will have a consistent feel when pressing keys all the way down. The Cloud - 50g, being the lighter option in terms of actuation force, may be preferable for those seeking comfort during long periods of typing, while the Perky, with its marginally heavier actuation force, could provide a more substantial typing experience for users who favor a stronger push feel. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, but their light weight makes them both appealing for users who prioritize ease of use.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch exhibit different travel distances, which can affect user preference and experience. The Cloud - 50g has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, making it the longer option, while the Perky features a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference may cater to varying preferences; gamers who seek rapid response times may opt for the Perky, appreciating its shorter travel distance for quicker actuation. Conversely, those who favor a more substantial feel and depth in their keystrokes might prefer the Cloud - 50g, as its longer travel distance provides a more pronounced feedback. Thus, the choice between these two switches will ultimately depend on an individual’s preference for depth versus 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 HMX Perky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Perky for $2.99.
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
The HMX Cloud - 50g switch has a clacky sound profile that appeals to those who prefer a bright and engaging auditory experience while typing. This distinct sound is part of what makes it an attractive option for enthusiasts who enjoy the clicking sensations associated with linear switches. In contrast, the HMX Perky switch is characterized by its softer and more subdued audio signature, lending to a quieter typing experience. While the Cloud - 50g creates a vibrant sound, the Perky maintains a more neutral tone that caters to users seeking a more discreet operation. It's essential to remember that the overall sound can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard case and keycap materials.
When it comes to feel, the Cloud - 50g offers a silky smooth typing experience that is noted for its lighter 50g actuation force, making it easy for users to tap away with minimal resistance. This sensation is particularly enjoyable for long typing sessions, allowing for quick, responsive keystrokes. On the other hand, the HMX Perky switch provides a more condensed feeling due to its shorter travel distance, which results in a typing experience that is neutral yet deeply satisfying. While both switches excel in delivering a pleasant tactile journey, the Perky might appeal more to those who prefer a swifter keystroke with less travel.
In summary, while the HMX Cloud - 50g boasts a clacky sound profile and a silky smooth feel, the HMX Perky offers a softer audio output and a more condensed typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences, making them viable options for users depending on their desired auditory and tactile qualities. Ultimately, whether you lean towards the vibrant auditory experience of the Cloud - 50g or the subtle satisfaction of the Perky, both switches promise remarkable typing experiences tailored to enthusiasts and casual users alike.
Conclusion
To wrap up, the choice between the HMX Cloud - 50g and the HMX Perky linear switches ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and the experience you seek from your mechanical keyboard. If you’re someone who enjoys a clacky sound profile and desires a bright, airy typing experience, the Cloud - 50g will likely be the better fit for you. Its lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams, combined with a smooth feel, makes it ideal for fast typists and those who want a bit of auditory feedback while they type. Conversely, if you prefer a more neutral and deeply satisfying typing experience with a softer sound, the HMX Perky switches will serve you well. These switches provide a condensed typing experience due to their shorter travel distance, making them a good choice for users who prioritize comfort and want a quieter action with their keystrokes. Ultimately, both switches offer a light 50g actuation force, but your preference for sound and tactile feedback will guide your decision towards the Cloud or the Perky.
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