HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Cherry MX Silent Red mechanical keyboard switches, there are various factors to consider. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch is favored for its clacky sound profile and heavier actuation force, providing a bright and tactile typing experience for enthusiasts who appreciate a bouncy and creamy feel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch offers a similar typing experience to its MX Red counterpart but with the added benefit of operating quietly, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. Both switches have their unique characteristics and appeal to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Cherry MX Silent Red are quite similar as they both use nylon for their top and bottom housing components. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches, thanks to its softer nature which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound that can be quite pleasing to the ears.
However, despite both switches using nylon for their housing materials, there may still be subtle differences in the sound and feel they produce. The way the top and bottom housings are designed and interact with the key press can lead to variations in the sound profile produced by each switch. For example, the bottom housing of a switch usually has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. These differences may result in slightly varied typing experiences between the two switches.
Overall, while the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Cherry MX Silent Red are the same, the way they are designed and their specific configurations can still lead to nuanced differences in the typing experience. Both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the qualities of nylon, but the slight variations in design may result in unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. In the end, both switches are likely to provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, but the slight differences in design may appeal to different users based on their individual preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch are quite different. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g has a heavier actuation force of 56 grams and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes quickly and efficiently. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Cherry MX Silent Red is unknown, which may be a factor to consider for those who prefer a certain amount of resistance when typing. Overall, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g is the heavier option, while the Cherry MX Silent Red is the lighter option, which may appeal to different preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch is 3.9 mm, while the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the HMX Cloud has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cherry MX Silent Red. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular for their quick response times. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances for faster gameplay. However, individuals who prefer a more substantial key press might find the longer travel distance of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, giving a sharp and bright typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch provides a muted, thocky, and low-pitched sound, creating a softer and quieter typing experience compared to the HMX Cloud - 63.5g. The MX Silent Red is ideal for noise-sensitive environments due to its significantly quieter operation, while the HMX Cloud - 63.5g caters to enthusiasts who enjoy a more percussive sound when typing. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch offers a bouncy and creamy typing experience, providing a spring-like feedback sensation with a smooth and buttery feel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is described as textured, indicating noticeable friction when pressed. This difference in feel suggests that the HMX Cloud - 63.5g may offer a more lively and elastic typing experience, while the Cherry MX Silent Red may provide a slightly rougher sensation during keystrokes.
In conclusion, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and Cherry MX Silent Red switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the HMX Cloud - 63.5g provides a clacky sound profile and bouncy, creamy feel for enthusiasts who enjoy a bright and lively typing experience, the Cherry MX Silent Red offers a quieter sound with a textured feel, catering to those who prefer a more muted and smooth typing sensation. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, with the HMX Cloud - 63.5g offering a more vibrant and percussive experience, while the Cherry MX Silent Red provides a quieter and more subdued option.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and needs. If you enjoy a bright, clacky typing experience with a medium-heavy feel and don't mind some noise, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch would be a great option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter typing experience in a noise-sensitive environment, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch with its silent operation would be the better choice. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different keyboard preferences, so consider your priorities in terms of sound and feel when making your decision.
Mentioned in this article
