HMX Cloud - 50g vs. HMX Twilight

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the merits of various options. Two notable contenders in the HMX lineup are the HMX Cloud - 50g and the HMX Twilight, both of which are linear switches but have their distinct characteristics. The Cloud - 50g is celebrated for its clacky sound profile and lighter actuation force, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy a bright and responsive typing experience with a silky smooth feel. In contrast, the HMX Twilight offers an extended 3.85mm travel distance, resulting in a quieter typing experience while still maintaining the signature clacky characteristics of HMX switches. This makes it an excellent option for users who might prefer a more subdued sound without sacrificing performance. Ultimately, each switch caters to different preferences and typing styles, and both offer unique advantages that can enhance your typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

HMX Cloud - 50g Linear

HMX Twilight Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Cloud - 50g and the HMX Twilight both utilize nylon as their primary housing material for both the top and bottom components of the switches. This choice of material is a fundamental aspect of their design, as nylon is known for its ability to produce a rich and resonant sound profile. When typing on switches made from this softer plastic, users can expect a deeper and fuller auditory experience due to nylon’s sound-absorbing qualities. Both the Cloud - 50g and the Twilight leverage this property to create a duller and rounder sound, demonstrating that the use of nylon across both models leads to similar acoustic characteristics during operation.

While the Cloud - 50g and the Twilight employ the same nylon material throughout their switch housing, the feel and sound profile can still be influenced by the specific design and structural differences inherent to each model. Since the nylon top housing contributes more significantly to the sound produced during key release, and the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, any variations in switch design specifics between these two models would manifest in nuanced differences in typing experience. However, the consistent use of nylon across both switches means that users will enjoy a generally consistent auditory experience.

In summation, the shared choice of nylon for both the top and bottom housings in the HMX Cloud - 50g and the HMX Twilight ensures that, regardless of any subtle design differences, the overall typing experience remains comparable. Users can expect both switches to deliver a satisfying feel and sound thanks to nylon's inherent properties. This consistency allows keyboard enthusiasts to select either model with confidence, assured that they will receive a product that embodies the deep, full sound characteristics that nylon housing promises.

Weight

The HMX Cloud - 50g and the HMX Twilight linear switches share identical specifications when it comes to their actuation and bottom out forces, both exhibiting an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable typing experience from both switches, promoting ease of use during extended periods of typing or gaming due to their lighter resistance. Since both switches are classified as light, they cater well to those who prefer a softer touch for prolonged sessions without strenuous effort. Ultimately, whether one opts for the Cloud - 50g or the Twilight, the results will be virtually the same in terms of keystroke actuation and bottoming out.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, we find that the Cloud - 50g has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Twilight features a travel distance of 3.85 mm. Although both switches are relatively close in travel distance, the Cloud - 50g offers a marginally deeper feel, which might appeal to users who prefer a more pronounced keypress. Conversely, the Twilight, with its shorter travel distance, aligns well with the preferences of gamers seeking faster response times. Overall, if you prioritize a more responsive feel, the Twilight would be a better choice, while those who favor a more substantial depth might lean towards the Cloud - 50g.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Cloud - 50g switch is noted for its clacky sound profile, which resonates with enthusiasts who appreciate a more vibrant and engaging auditory feedback while typing. This lighter variant delivers a brighter sound that enhances the overall typing experience, making it enjoyable for users who like to hear each keystroke distinctly. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight switch has a quieter sound characteristic while still retaining the clacky traits typical of HMX switches. With its extended travel distance of 3.85mm, the Twilight manages to dampen the noise somewhat, appealing to those who prefer a less obtrusive auditory experience without sacrificing the engaging feel of a clacky switch. It’s important to remember that the overall sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by various factors such as the choice of keyboard plate and keycaps.

When discussing the feel of these switches, the HMX Cloud - 50g stands out with its silky smooth action, providing a pleasant and effortless typing experience. This smoothness is ideal for fast typists or gamers who value fluid keystrokes and responsiveness. In contrast, the HMX Twilight switch, while also adhering to the linear feel, encompasses a slightly different experience due to its longer travel distance. This extended actuation can create a sense of deeper immersion in the typing experience, allowing users to feel their inputs more distinctly, which can enhance both typing and gaming performance. Ultimately, those who prefer the Cloud - 50g will enjoy a smooth and speedy feel, while those drawn to the Twilight may appreciate the nuanced feedback that comes with its travel distance.

In conclusion, the HMX Cloud - 50g and HMX Twilight linear switches present distinct auditory and tactile experiences suited to different user preferences. The Cloud - 50g switch offers an engaging clacky sound and a silky smooth feel, ideal for those who prioritize a vibrant typing experience. Conversely, the Twilight switch provides a slightly quieter, yet still clacky, sound, accompanied by a more pronounced travel distance that allows for nuanced feedback. Both switches, while differing in characteristics, promise a satisfying and rewarding typing experience, ultimately catering to a range of preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.

Conclusion

To wrap up, your choice between the HMX Cloud - 50g and the HMX Twilight linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. If you’re someone who enjoys a bright and vibrant typing experience, the HMX Cloud - 50g is an excellent option for you. Its 50-gram bottom out force, combined with its clacky sound profile and silky smooth feel, makes it ideal for typing enthusiasts who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you favor a quieter typing experience without sacrificing the signature clacky characteristics of HMX switches, then the HMX Twilight is the way to go. Its extended 3.85mm travel distance promises a unique typing sensation while maintaining a more muted sound, striking a balance between performance and discretion. Ultimately, consider the environment in which you’ll be using your keyboard, as well as your typing style, to choose the switch that best complements your routine.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Cloud - 50g Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

HMX Twilight Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more