HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro stand out as popular options. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g, a linear switch, offers a clacky sound profile and a silky smooth feel, making it a favorite among enthusiasts who enjoy a bright typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro, a tactile switch, is praised for its distinct poppy and clacky sound profile paired with a commendable level of smoothness, providing users with a lively audible feedback and a creamy, tactile sensation. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences 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
56g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
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
20mm spring
Housing materials
Overall, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro both utilize nylon for their bottom housing material, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This similarity means that typing on switches from both keyboards will provide a similar tactile experience, with the nylon absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound overall. However, the Cloud - 63.5g uses nylon for its top housing, while the V3 Cream Blue Pro opts for polycarbonate. This decision leads to a significant difference in sound profiles, with the Cloud - 63.5g offering a softer and deeper typing experience compared to the crisper and sharper sound produced by the V3 Cream Blue Pro.
The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro results in a more resonant and clear sound profile, particularly suitable for those looking to enhance RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g provides a more subdued and softer typing experience. While the HMX Cloud - 63.5g's nylon bottom housing shares the same properties as the V3 Cream Blue Pro's nylon counterpart, the differences in their top housings highlight how material choice can greatly impact the overall typing feel and sound produced by a keyboard switch.
In essence, the choice of housing material for mechanical keyboard switches plays a crucial role in determining the typing experience and sound profile. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g and Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro showcase how nylon and polycarbonate can influence the way a switch sounds and feels. While both keyboards share similarities in their nylon bottom housing, the distinction in their top housing material results in contrasting typing experiences. Whether you prefer a softer, fuller sound or a crisper, more resonant typing experience, understanding the impact of housing materials is essential in selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch for your preferences.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch reveals some key differences. The Cloud - 63.5g has a heavier actuation force of 56 grams compared to the V3 Cream Blue Pro's lighter 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Cloud - 63.5g is also heavier at 63.5 grams, whereas the V3 Cream Blue Pro is lighter at 55 grams. This means that the Cloud - 63.5g offers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the V3 Cream Blue Pro provides a lighter touch for those who prefer a softer feel. Both switches have their advantages, with the Cloud - 63.5g being better suited for users who prefer a heavier typing experience, while the V3 Cream Blue Pro is ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch is 3.9 mm, while the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4.0 mm being the most common. Gamers tend to prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the V3 Cream Blue Pro a popular choice for gaming. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more profound key press may opt for the Cloud - 63.5g with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for $2.00.
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g comes in at $3.50 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 - 63.5g switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched profile, creating a sharp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switch offers a distinct poppy and clacky sound that is lively and audible. Both switches provide a unique auditory feedback that appeals to users who enjoy a more vibrant typing experience. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be affected by factors such as keyboard build and keycap choice.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g is described as bouncy and creamy, offering a spring-like feedback with a smooth and buttery sensation during typing. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switch is characterized by its accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished feel, providing a medium level of tactility with a responsive and polished typing experience. Both switches aim to deliver a tactile feedback that enhances the overall typing enjoyment for users looking for a specific typing feel.
In conclusion, while the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch offer different sound and feel qualities, both switches cater to enthusiasts looking for a unique typing experience. Whether you prefer the clacky and high-pitched sound of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g or the poppy and clacky sound of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro, both switches provide a smooth and bouncy feel that enhances the typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, as both options offer a level of quality that can elevate your overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a bright, clacky sound profile and a silky smooth typing feel, the Cloud - 63.5g may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a poppy and clacky sound profile paired with a creamy tactile sensation, the V3 Cream Blue Pro could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for sound and feel when typing on your mechanical keyboard.
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