HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch, you are faced with two distinct options that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g offers a clacky sound profile and a bouncy feel, ideal for enthusiasts who enjoy a bright typing experience with a silky smooth touch. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch provides a creamy smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump, creating a uniquely satisfying tactile typing experience. While the Cloud - 63.5g excels in its high-pitched and creamy qualities, the Ice King Tactile stands out for its silky smoothness and exceptional tactility. 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
58g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
68g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Durock Ice King Tactile are both made of nylon, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches made with nylon housing. Both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, as they share the same housing material for both the top and bottom components.
However, despite the similarities in housing material, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Durock Ice King Tactile may have differences in their overall switch design and components that could affect their performance. The way the nylon housing is implemented in each switch, such as the internal structure and design features, can impact the typing experience and sound output. It is important to consider these factors when choosing between the two switches, as they may offer slightly different characteristics even though they share the same housing material.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Durock Ice King Tactile provide a similar typing experience with their nylon construction, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. While the nylon top and bottom housings in both switches contribute to the overall sound and feel, subtle differences in switch design and internal components could influence the typing experience between the two. Ultimately, both switches offer a reliable and consistent typing experience for those who appreciate the qualities of nylon housing in their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that the Cloud - 63.5g has a lighter actuation force at 56 grams compared to the Ice King Tactile's 58 grams. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Cloud - 63.5g requires 63.5 grams, while the Ice King Tactile needs 68 grams, making the Ice King Tactile the heavier option for both metrics. This means that those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Cloud - 63.5g, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Ice King Tactile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, we can see that the Cloud - 63.5g has a longer travel distance of 3.9 mm compared to the Ice King Tactile's 3.5 mm. The Cloud - 63.5g offers a bit more depth in keypress, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile provides a slightly shorter travel distance, which can appeal to those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Ice King Tactile being slightly shorter and the Cloud - 63.5g a bit longer. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Ice King Tactile has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Tactile for $4.20.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched typing experience, generating sharp and percussive sounds with each press. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch produces a more subdued sound, offering a dampened and subtle sound signature. While the Cloud switch provides a more energetic and bright auditory feedback, the Ice King switch offers a quieter and more refined typing experience.
In terms of feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch is known for its bouncy and creamy typing sensation, providing a lively and silky smooth experience with each keystroke. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch offers a silky, frictionless, and polished feel, ensuring an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience. While the Cloud switch delivers a more elastic and vibrant feel, the Ice King switch offers a refined and seamless typing experience with minimal resistance.
Overall, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. The Cloud switch appeals to enthusiasts seeking a bright and clacky typing experience with a bouncy and creamy feel, while the Ice King switch caters to those who prefer a more subdued sound profile and a silky, frictionless typing sensation. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience, so choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you are someone who enjoys a bright and clacky typing sound with a smooth feel, the Cloud - 63.5g may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a symphony of touch with a creamy smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, the Ice King Tactile switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you prioritize sound or feel in your mechanical keyboard switch selection. Choose the switch that best aligns with your typing preferences and enjoy a satisfying typing experience tailored to your liking.
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