HMX Cloud - 50g vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) both stand out as appealing options for enthusiasts seeking a linear experience, yet they offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The HMX Cloud - 50g is celebrated for its clacky sound profile, making it a choice for those who appreciate a brighter, more auditory typing experience. This lighter switch boasts a silky smooth feel, ideal for both casual typing and gaming sessions. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) excels with its Ly stems, delivering an exceptionally smooth typing experience complemented by a deep, resonant sound profile. While both switches promise smooth keystrokes, your choice may depend on whether you prefer the auditory feedback of the Cloud - 50g or the weightier tactile presence of the Tomcat. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
64g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 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
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy), we observe notable differences, particularly in the top housing components. The Cloud - 50g utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer and more absorptive qualities. This feature results in a sound that is duller and rounder, providing a more muted acoustic experience. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) employs a polycarbonate top housing, which generates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant acoustic characteristic, making it ideal for scenarios where accentuating sound clarity is crucial. Therefore, users can expect a distinctly different auditory experience based on the choice of top housing material.
However, the bottom housing of both switches introduces a commonality between the Cloud - 50g and the Tomcat (Heavy). Both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, which ensures that the sound profiles during the keypress remain consistent despite the differences in their top housings. The nylon material provides a deeper, rounder sound due to its ability to absorb sound better than harder options, influencing the bottom-out experience similarly in both models. This shared characteristic means that while the overall auditory experience may vary due to the top housing differences, the bottom housing's involvement guarantees a consistent depth of sound during key presses.
Ultimately, the interplay between the different top and bottom housings creates a unique acoustic phenomenon for each switch model. Users can enjoy a deeper, fuller sound profile from the nylon bottom combination in both models while experiencing contrasting tonal qualities from the varying top materials. While the HMX Cloud - 50g delivers a sound with a muted, rounded character, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy), with its polycarbonate top housing, offers crisper and more resonant auditory feedback. Thus, depending on user preferences regarding sound profiles and aesthetics, both switches provide viable options, each reflecting the respective qualities of their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, distinct differences emerge. The HMX Cloud boasts a relatively light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who favor prolonged typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) requires a stronger actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 64 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience suited for users who prefer a firmer push. Thus, the Cloud - 50g is the lighter option, while the Tomcat (Heavy) is the heavier choice. Those opting for the HMX Cloud will experience a lighter and more delicate touch, while the Bsun Tomcat will cater to those who appreciate a more robust feedback during key presses.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, we find that the Cloud - 50g offers a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Tomcat (Heavy) has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) the shorter switch, providing gamers and users looking for more responsive keystrokes with a quicker actuation. On the other hand, the HMX Cloud - 50g, with its longer travel distance, provides a more pronounced depth, which some may find offers a more satisfying tactile experience. Thus, for those who prefer rapid response times, the Tomcat would be the preferable choice, while those who value a sturdier feel might lean towards the Cloud - 50g. Overall, these differences cater to varying user preferences in terms of 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 Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) comes in at $2.99 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 switch produces a clacky sound profile that appeals to enthusiasts seeking a bright and engaging typing experience. This switch is designed to resonate well, providing a crisp auditory feedback with each keystroke. Conversely, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) features a resonant sound profile as well, but its characteristics may be influenced by the different stem material and design, leading to a more muted or deeper tone compared to the Cloud - 50g. However, it's essential to recognize that sound characteristics can significantly vary depending on factors like the choice of keyboard body and keycaps, which may lead to similar or different auditory results despite the inherent qualities of each switch.
When discussing the feel of these switches, the Cloud - 50g is noted for its silky smooth experience, making it pleasurable to type on without any noticeable friction. This smoothness enhances the overall typing speed and comfort, particularly appealing to those who value efficiency and fluidity in their keystrokes. The Tomcat (Heavy), on the other hand, also boasts a super smooth typing experience thanks to its Ly stems, which contribute to a certain level of consistency and responsiveness. Both switches provide a premium tactile experience, suggesting that users may find them similarly enjoyable, though the subtle differences in design and weight may cater to slightly different preferences in typing dynamics.
Overall, both the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switches offer enticing qualities for keystrokes, though they each have unique sound profiles and smoothness attributes. The Cloud - 50g's clacky resonation and silky feel attract those who enjoy an energetic typing sound and fluid experience. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) presents a resonant sound complemented by its very smooth feel, appealing to users who might prefer a slightly different auditory aesthetic. Ultimately, while each switch has its distinct features, those drawn to either will likely enjoy a satisfying typing experience, making them worthy options for newcomers in the mechanical keyboard space.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch depends largely on your typing preferences and the experience you desire. If you prefer a lighter touch, enjoy a clackier sound profile, and seek a silky smooth feel during typing, the Cloud - 50g is the switch for you. Its 50g bottom-out force makes it ideal for fast typists or those who love to type for extended periods without fatigue. This switch is especially suited for gaming or fast-paced tasks where quick inputs are crucial. On the other hand, if you favor a more substantial feel with a medium-heavy actuation at 64 grams, accompanied by a resonant sound profile, the Tomcat (Heavy) would likely be a better match. This switch is designed for individuals who appreciate a sturdy feedback while typing, making it a great option for heavy typists or those who might enjoy a slightly more audible typing experience. By assessing your personal preferences for actuation force, sound, and overall typing sensation, you can confidently select the switch that enhances your keyboard experience.
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