HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. SP-Star Meteor White
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the SP-Star Meteor White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the SP-Star Meteor White represent two distinct options for different preferences. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g is a linear switch that is best known for its clacky sound profile and heavier actuation force, catering to enthusiasts who appreciate a bright typing experience with a smooth feel. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor White is also a linear switch, but it offers a more subdued experience with easy keypresses and a gentle sound profile. With its soft feel and sound, the Meteor White switch provides a neutral and polished typing experience. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that may appeal to different users based on their preferences. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
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
Housing materials
While both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and SP-Star Meteor White utilize nylon as their housing material, they differ in the weight and color of the housing. The Cloud - 63.5g has a slightly heavier feel due to the added weight of the material, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Meteor White's lighter nylon housing allows for quicker keystrokes and potentially a more responsive typing feel. Additionally, the color difference between the two housing materials may appeal to different aesthetic preferences, with the Cloud - 63.5g offering a darker tone compared to the Meteor White's brighter hue.
In terms of sound profile, both the Cloud - 63.5g and Meteor White present a deeper and fuller sound when typing, thanks to the absorbing qualities of nylon. The softer nature of nylon helps dampen the sound produced, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This consistency in sound profile between the two housing materials ensures that users can expect a similar auditory experience regardless of their choice between the two switches. However, the distribution of these sound qualities may vary depending on whether the top or bottom housing is being utilized more during typing.
Ultimately, the choice between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and SP-Star Meteor White housing materials may come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel, sound profile, and aesthetics. While both switches offer a classic nylon housing material known for its sound-absorbing properties, the slight differences in weight and color could influence which switch is preferred by individual users. Whether one values a heavier typing experience with the Cloud - 63.5g or a lighter feel with the Meteor White, both switches promise a satisfying typing experience with their nylon housing materials.
Weight
The actuation force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch is 56 grams, while the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch does not specify an actuation force. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Cloud - 63.5g switch is 63.5 grams, slightly heavier than the Meteor White switch which has a bottom out force of 57 grams. This makes the Cloud - 63.5g switch the heavier option between the two. The Cloud - 63.5g switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy actuation force and bottom out force, perfect for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Meteor White switch offers a lighter feel with its medium-light bottom out force, ideal for users who prefer a lighter typing experience for long periods of time. 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, which is slightly shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Cloud - 63.5g being slightly shorter. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the Cloud - 63.5g due to its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a deeper keypress may lean towards the SP-Star Meteor White. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White for $5.00.
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
When considering the sound profile of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, it's evident that they offer contrasting experiences. The Cloud - 63.5g switch is characterized by a clacky and high-pitched sound, creating a sharp and vibrant typing experience. In comparison, the Meteor White switch provides a more subdued and thocky sound, offering a gentler and more satisfying typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences in sound, with the Cloud - 63.5g being more crisp and bright, while the Meteor White is deeper and more muted.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the Cloud - 63.5g switch is known for its bouncy and creamy typing experience, providing a lively and smooth sensation with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Meteor White switch offers a mild and polished feel, giving a gentle and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Despite their differences in feel, both switches aim to provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, catering to a range of preferences in tactile feedback.
In conclusion, while the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles, both switches excel in providing a satisfying typing experience. Whether you prefer a brighter and bouncier feel with a clacky sound, or a softer and more refined feel with a thocky sound, these switches have something to offer for every mechanical keyboard enthusiast. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, ensuring that you get a typing experience that suits your individual taste.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a brighter, clacky sound with a heavier feel, the Cloud - 63.5g may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a softer, more subdued sound and a lighter, more gentle feel, the Meteor White switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on personal preference and the kind of typing experience you value most in a keyboard switch.
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