HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the SP-Star Duck can be a tough one. The Cloud - 63.5g offers a clacky sound profile and a smooth typing experience, catering to enthusiasts who prefer a bright and bouncy feel. On the other hand, the Duck switches provide a more subtle tactile experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, perfect for those who appreciate a gentle tactility while typing. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that make it appealing to different 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
58g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the SP-Star Duck, we can see that the Cloud uses nylon for both the top and bottom housings, while the Duck opts for polycarbonate in both components. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for switches with a clear housing for RGB lighting purposes.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the two switches, the effects they have on the overall sound profile and typing experience are notable. While the Cloud's nylon housing offers a softer and more absorbent sound profile, the Duck's polycarbonate housing delivers a clearer and more resonant sound experience. The choice between nylon and polycarbonate ultimately depends on the desired sound and feel of the switch, with nylon providing a deeper and rounder sound, and polycarbonate offering a sharper and crisper typing experience.
It is interesting to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housings in a switch can have different impacts on the overall sound profile and typing experience. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has more impact on the sound when releasing a key. In the case of the Cloud and Duck switches, the use of nylon or polycarbonate in both top and bottom housings respectively ensures a consistent sound profile throughout the typing experience, resulting in a cohesive and satisfying feel for users of both switches.
Weight
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a higher actuation force of 56 grams compared to the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Duck requires 58 grams of force while the Cloud - 63.5g switch needs 63.5 grams. This makes the Duck the lighter option in terms of bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Duck may be the better choice as it requires less force to press down fully. On the other hand, the Cloud - 63.5g switch provides a more substantial typing feel with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the SP-Star Duck tactile switch. The Cloud - 63.5g offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers seeking fast reactions. On the other hand, the Duck tactile switch provides a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, which some users may find more satisfying for typing or certain applications. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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 sound profile, which offers a sharp, bright, and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch provides a more neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users with its moderate actuation force requirement and sound quality. When comparing the two, the Cloud - 63.5g switch will give a louder and more distinct typing sound, while the Duck switch offers a quieter and more subtle typing experience.
Moving on to the feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch is described as bouncy and creamy, delivering a spring-like feedback sensation with a smooth and buttery typing experience. In contrast, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch provides a mild, buttery, and polished typing feel, offering a more gentle and refined keystroke experience. While both switches offer a smooth typing experience, the Cloud - 63.5g switch will feel more lively and elastic, whereas the Duck switch will provide a more uniform and effortless typing sensation.
Overall, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a brighter and more clacky typing experience with a bouncy feel, the Cloud - 63.5g switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle and neutral sound profile with a gentle, buttery feel, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch would be a better choice. Remember that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality typing experiences, and you can expect reliable performance from either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you enjoy a bright and clacky typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, opt for the Cloud - 63.5g. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile feel with a clean and crispy sound profile at a medium bottom out force, the Duck switch is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for.
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