HMX Cloud - 50g vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the characteristics that best suit their typing style and preferences. The HMX Cloud - 50g is a linear switch renowned for its bright and clacky sound profile, catering to those who appreciate a lively auditory experience alongside a silky smooth keystroke. In contrast, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) stands out with its resonant and high-pitched clacks, enhanced by an impeccable factory lubrication that further elevates the smoothness of each press. Both switches promise an engaging typing experience, with the Cloud - 50g appealing to individuals seeking a lighter variant for quick and responsive feedback, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a rich audio texture that delights the senses. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
The HMX Cloud - 50g and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) exemplify two distinctive approaches to housing materials in mechanical switches, particularly when comparing their top housings. The Cloud - 50g features a nylon top housing, which is pivotal in producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon's inherent qualities as a relatively softer plastic that absorbs sound more effectively than harder alternatives. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) utilizes a Ly top housing, characterized by its bright sound signature that generates resonant clacks during typing. Consequently, while the Cloud - 50g is designed to create a more subdued auditory experience, the Strawberry Wine (V2) is engineered for a more lively and vibrant sound profile, reflecting a stark contrast in the auditory outputs they produce.
When examining the bottom housing, both the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Strawberry Wine (V2) use nylon material. This shared characteristic ensures a consistent auditory foundation, as nylon bottom housings are known for their ability to create a deeper and fuller sound due to sound absorption properties. Thus, despite the different sound signatures from their respective top housings, the bottom housings of both switches provide a similar sound experience. They facilitate a softer bottom-out sound and feel, enhancing the overall tactile experience during typing. This means that regardless of the differences in top housings, users of both switches may find a common ground in keyboard performance when pressing down on the keys.
Ultimately, the interplay between the different materials in the top and bottom housings of the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) illustrates the nuanced effects on typing dynamics and acoustics. The contrasting top housings can yield significantly different auditory experiences, but the nylon bottom housings serve to harmonize the typing feel and sound, yielding fuller and deeper tones regardless of the top housing's characteristics. Thus, while users may appreciate the brighter, more resonant clacks of the Strawberry Wine (V2), they can still expect a similar depth in sound from the bottom housing – a testament to how the combination of materials can shape the overall user experience.
Weight
The HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cloud - 50g features an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as a light switch that facilitates prolonged typing sessions and extended gaming without excessive strain. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, placing it in the medium-light range. This makes the Strawberry Wine (V2) a better choice for those who prefer a more substantial feel while typing. Consequently, while both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, the Cloud - 50g is the lighter option, better suited for users looking for ease during extended use, whereas the heavier force of the Strawberry Wine (V2) caters to those who enjoy a firmer keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, we find that they differ slightly. The Cloud - 50g has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that if you prefer a switch with a more responsive feel, the Strawberry Wine (V2) might be the better option due to its reduced travel distance, catering effectively to gamers looking for quicker response times. Conversely, those who enjoy a more pronounced keypress with a hearty depth may lean towards the Cloud - 50g, which offers a longer travel distance for a more tactile experience. Ultimately, while both switches cater to different preferences, the HMX Cloud - 50g is the longer option, providing a fuller keypress, while the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) stands out as the shorter, snappier selection.
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 Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Wine (V2) for $4.35.
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 switch delivers a bright and clacky sound profile that appeals to those who enjoy a more cheerful auditory typing experience. The sharp and percussive notes provide an engaging and lively feedback with each keystroke, which can enhance the overall enjoyment of typing. Conversely, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) also features a clacky sound characterized by its resonant and high-pitched qualities. This switch produces a clean and immersive auditory experience that can create an invigorating typing atmosphere. Both switches are likely to deliver a bright and engaging sound, but the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers additional resonant tones that may appeal to enthusiasts seeking auditory depth.
When considering the feel, the Cloud - 50g is noted for its silky smoothness, offering a pleasant typing experience with minimal resistance. This smooth action makes typing not only enjoyable but also efficient, allowing for quick and fluid keystrokes. Similarly, the Strawberry Wine (V2) also presents a silky texture, enhanced by an impeccable factory lube job that further smoothens every keystroke. The synergy of this lubrication with the switch design ensures an exceptionally smooth typing experience in both cases. Thus, users can expect a comfortable and effortless feel from both switches, contributing to longer typing sessions without fatigue.
In conclusion, both the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switches provide a bright and lively sound profile complemented by a silky smooth feel. While the Cloud - 50g captivates with its lighter clacky sound, the Strawberry Wine (V2) adds an extra layer of resonant depth, making it an appealing choice for those who prefer a varied auditory experience. On the tactile front, both switches promise a smooth and enjoyable typing feel that minimizes resistance, ensuring that each keystroke is satisfying and effective. Ultimately, your choice may depend on personal preferences regarding sound, with both options delivering a top-tier typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences in both sound and typing experience. If you lean towards a lighter switch that provides a bright, clacky auditory feedback, the HMX Cloud - 50g would be the ideal choice for you. Its lower bottom-out force of 50 grams allows for effortless keystrokes, making it particularly well-suited for typists who enjoy a more agile feel while still craving a lively sound profile. On the other hand, if you are looking for a slightly heavier switch—one that still delivers a delightful clacky experience but with additional smoothness and a touch of resonance—the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) could be your go-to. With a 52-gram bottom-out force, it offers a subtle increase in weight, enhancing control and stability during typing while boasting silky smooth feel due to its impeccable factory lube job. Therefore, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize lightness and brightness in sound with the Cloud or opt for a more robust yet smooth typing experience with the Strawberry Wine.
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