HMX Cloud - 50g vs. HMX Sunset Gleam

Overview

When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly impact your typing experience, and two notable contenders in the linear switch category are the HMX Cloud - 50g and the HMX Sunset Gleam. The Cloud - 50g stands out with its lighter actuation force and distinct clacky sound profile, offering enthusiasts a bright and engaging typing experience combined with a silky smooth feel that many crave. Conversely, the Sunset Gleam, affectionately dubbed the Duck Duck switch, presents a harmonious blend of materials that not only delivers a subtle top-out but also produces a satisfying clack, all thanks to the excellent factory lube that HMX is renowned for. Each switch offers unique advantages: the Cloud - 50g for those who prefer a lighter touch and vibrant acoustics, and the Sunset Gleam for users seeking a more balanced and refined auditory feedback. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.

By the numbers

HMX Cloud - 50g Linear

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 50g and HMX Sunset Gleam switches exhibit distinct characteristics that affect their sound profiles and overall typing experiences. The Cloud - 50g features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound. This is largely due to the nylon's softer composition, which absorbs more sound waves, resulting in a more subdued auditory output. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam employs a polycarbonate top housing that delivers a sharper and crisper sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate creates a resonant property that results in clearer audible feedback, making it more suitable for those who prefer a more pronounced keystroke sound. Thus, while both switches aim to enhance the typing experience, their top housing materials dictate distinct sound profiles, catering to different user preferences.

However, when it comes to the bottom housing, both switches are similar as they both utilize nylon material. As illustrated, nylon is a classic switch housing material that contributes to a fuller sound profile. The relatively soft texture of nylon in both the Cloud - 50g and Sunset Gleam creates a rich auditory experience by enriching the sound when bottoming out. Consequently, despite the different properties of the top housings, the bottom housing consistency helps bridge the gap in user experience, ensuring that both switches still possess a warm undertone when pressed. This shared characteristic may appeal to users who appreciate a uniform feel while typing, as the typing feedback from the bottom housing remains identical regardless of the differing top materials.

The interaction between the two types of housings ultimately determines the overall performance of each switch during use. The nylon bottom housing plays a significant role in influencing the feel and sound of a keystroke, ensuring that users experience a satisfying bottom-out sensation with both the Cloud - 50g and Sunset Gleam. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound feedback upon releasing a key, allowing for differing auditory experiences in terms of sharpness and resonance. Thus, while the switches display notable differences in their top housings, the commonality of nylon at the bottom balances their properties effectively. By understanding these dynamics, users can make informed choices based on their desired sound profiles and typing experiences, regardless of the collage of materials each switch presents.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, both share the same actuation force of 42 grams, meaning users can expect a similar keystroke feel when triggering a key. However, the bottom out forces differ slightly, with the Cloud - 50g featuring a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Sunset Gleam has a softer bottom out at 48 grams. This makes the Cloud - 50g the heavier option overall, as it requires slightly more force to fully depress the key. While both switches are generally considered light, the Sunset Gleam’s marginally lower bottom out force provides a slightly more cushioned feel upon key release, which may appeal to users who prefer a less substantial push. Ultimately, for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, both switches offer a comfortable experience, but the choice may come down to the user’s preference for actuation feel versus the bottom out impact.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance between the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, we see a notable difference. The Cloud - 50g features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Sunset Gleam has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that if you're looking for a more responsive feel during gameplay or typing, the Sunset Gleam may be a better option, given its shorter travel distance that allows for quicker actuation. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper, more tactile experience when pressing keys, the Cloud - 50g with its 3.9 mm travel distance would likely be more satisfying. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize responsiveness or a more pronounced key feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch is characterized by its clacky sound profile, which offers a bright and vibrant auditory experience. This switch is designed to appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced sound while typing, providing a lively atmosphere. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam, also known as the Duck Duck switch, features a more subtle top-out combined with a satisfying clack. This blend creates an overall sound signature that's less aggressive compared to the Cloud - 50g, catering to users who prefer a more refined auditory feedback. However, it's important to note that the overall sound experience will vary depending on other factors such as the keyboard plate and keycap materials used.

When it comes to feel, users can expect a silky smooth experience from the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch, which enhances the typing experience by allowing easy key presses with minimal resistance. This characteristic makes it a great choice for those who favor rapid typing and fluid movement. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam switch is designed to provide a unique tactile sensation with its excellent factory lube, leading to a silky yet subtly engaging feel. This smoothness can create a highly pleasant typing experience, allowing for comfortable and reliable keystrokes over prolonged use. Both switches emphasize a smooth feel, but the Sunset Gleam adds a touch of refinement through its material composition.

In summary, both the HMX Cloud - 50g and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches deliver enjoyable typing experiences, but they cater to slightly different preferences. While the Cloud - 50g boasts a brighter, clackier sound and a silky action, the Sunset Gleam focuses on a refined auditory experience with its subtle top-out and lube-enhanced smoothness. Ultimately, those seeking a lively sound may prefer the Cloud - 50g, while those who appreciate a more muted clack and a smooth feel might find the Sunset Gleam to be more appealing. Regardless of your choice, both switches promise a pleasurable typing experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 50g and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches, your preference for sound and feel should guide your choice. If you thrive on a bright typing experience and crave a clacky sound, the Cloud - 50g is an excellent option, offering a silky smooth feel and a bottom-out force that feels just right for quick, responsive typing. This switch may suit you well if you're an enthusiast who appreciates tactile feedback and a more pronounced auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a subtler auditory profile with a satisfying yet soft clack, the Sunset Gleam could be your ideal choice. With its delicate top-out and superior factory lube, it provides a luxurious feel that can enhance your typing experience significantly. Ultimately, evaluating your typing style and sound preferences will help you determine which switch aligns best with your mechanical keyboard aspirations.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Cloud - 50g Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more