Gateron Aliaz vs. HMX Cloud - 63.5g
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Aliaz and HMX Cloud - 63.5g offer two distinct typing experiences. The Aliaz switch is a tactile option, perfect for quiet environments like the office, with its medium-heavy weight providing a satisfying feel to each keystroke without the noise. On the other hand, the Cloud - 63.5g is a linear switch known for its clacky sound profile, appealing to enthusiasts who enjoy a bright typing experience. The silky smooth feel of the Cloud switch adds to its appeal. While the Aliaz switch caters to those seeking a more pronounced typing feedback, the HMX Cloud is ideal for those who prefer a clacky, high-pitched typing experience. 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
60g
Actuation force
56g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Aliaz and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g both use different materials for their housing components. The Aliaz utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Cloud - 63.5g features a nylon top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the Aliaz creates a more resonant sound due to its stiffness, while the nylon in the Cloud - 63.5g absorbs more sound, producing a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Aliaz is translucent, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Cloud - 63.5g does not offer the same level of transparency. However, both switches provide different sound experiences due to their housing materials. The stiffer polycarbonate in the Aliaz leads to a clearer sound, while the softer nylon in the Cloud - 63.5g creates a more muffled sound. These differences in housing materials highlight the importance of material selection in determining the overall typing experience.
Despite their differences in housing materials, both the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g offer unique sound profiles based on their top and bottom housing compositions. The qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of each switch, influencing the sound profile during key presses and key releases. The Aliaz's polycarbonate housing creates a crisper sound upon key press, while the nylon housing of the Cloud - 63.5g produces a deeper sound when typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel during typing sessions.
Weight
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 56 grams. Both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Aliaz requiring 75 grams and the Cloud - 63.5g needing 63.5 grams. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Aliaz due to its heavier actuation force and bottom out force, whereas those who prefer a lighter typing feel may opt for the Cloud - 63.5g. Overall, the Aliaz offers a heavier typing experience, while the Cloud - 63.5g provides a slightly lighter touch, making it a matter of personal preference based on typing style and comfort level.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.9 mm. Both switches offer a relatively traditional travel distance, with the Aliaz being slightly longer. Gamers may lean towards the Cloud - 63.5g for its slightly shorter travel distance which can result in faster response times. However, those who prefer a more solid and deliberate keystroke may opt for the Aliaz with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of the travel distance that feels most comfortable and responsive for the individual user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cloud - 63.5g for $2.99.
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 Gateron Aliaz tactile switch offers a muted typing experience, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, catering to those who enjoy a bright and sharp typing experience. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Aliaz switch is known for its silky and polished typing experience, offering smooth key presses with minimal resistance. In contrast, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch provides a bouncy and creamy feel, giving the keys a spring-like feedback and a buttery sensation when typing. Both switches offer a unique tactile feedback that can enhance the overall typing experience based on personal preferences.
Overall, while the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch provide different sound and feel profiles, they both offer quality typing experiences tailored to different preferences. Whether you prefer a quiet and substantial typing experience with the Aliaz switch, or a clacky and bright typing experience with the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch, you can expect similar satisfying results in terms of overall quality and performance from both switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard and your personal preferences. If you work in a quiet office setting and prefer a substantial feel with a muted sound, the Aliaz switches could be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bright, clacky typing experience and prefer a lighter touch with a silky smooth feel, the Cloud - 63.5g switches may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your individual typing style and the overall experience you're seeking from your mechanical keyboard.
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