KTT Ash Gray vs. HMX Cloud - 63.5g
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Ash Gray, a tactile switch, to the HMX Cloud - 63.5g, a linear switch, there are distinct differences that can cater to different preferences. The Ash Gray is known for its light touch and crisp actuation, providing a pleasant tactile feedback that is not overwhelming. On the other hand, the Cloud - 63.5g offers a heavier typing experience with a clacky sound profile, appealing to enthusiasts who enjoy a bright typing sensation. While the Ash Gray is categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', the Cloud - 63.5g is described as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'High-pitched'. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on your preference for tactile feedback and 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
38g
Actuation force
56g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the HMX Cloud - 63.5g has a nylon top housing that yields a deeper and fuller sound. The polycarbonate top housing of the Ash Gray is ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency, while the nylon top housing of the Cloud - 63.5g absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Ash Gray and the Cloud - 63.5g feature nylon bottom housings. This material is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it absorbs more sound than harder plastics. The split between the qualities of the bottom and top housings in a switch is essential to consider, as it determines the impact on both the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, as well as the sound when releasing a key. While the bottom housing may have a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound, the top housing plays a crucial role in the overall sound profile of the switch.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Ash Gray and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing of the Ash Gray provides a clearer and more resonant sound, while the nylon top housing of the Cloud - 63.5g offers a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches showcase the unique qualities of their housing materials, catering to different user preferences based on sound characteristics. Whether you prefer the sharpness of polycarbonate or the depth of nylon, both switches deliver distinct sound profiles that enhance the typing experience.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch reveals some distinct differences. The Ash Gray has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Cloud - 63.5g's 56 grams, making the Ash Gray more sensitive to touch. In terms of bottom out force, the Ash Gray requires 53 grams while the Cloud - 63.5g needs 63.5 grams to fully press down the key. This means that the Cloud - 63.5g provides a firmer typing experience compared to the Ash Gray. Weight considerations come into play here, with the Ash Gray being more lightweight in terms of force requirements, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Cloud - 63.5g offers a heavier push feel for those seeking a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. In this case, the Ash Gray has a shorter travel distance compared to the Cloud - 63.5g. The Ash Gray may offer a more responsive typing experience, favored by gamers for quicker response times. On the other hand, the Cloud - 63.5g provides a slightly longer travel distance, which can offer a more substantial and satisfying keypress for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance in typing or gaming scenarios.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Ash Gray has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ash Gray for $2.55.
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 KTT Ash Gray tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile, suitable for various settings and preferences. On the other hand, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound that is sharper and more percussive. If you prefer a bright and sharp typing experience, the Cloud switch might be the more appealing option for you.
When it comes to feel, the Ash Gray switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature and mild tactile feedback, offering a comfortable and low-impact typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a bouncy and creamy feel, providing a spring-like feedback and a smooth, buttery sensation while typing. If you enjoy a more lively and elastic typing experience, the Cloud switch would be a good choice.
In conclusion, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Ash Gray switch provides a neutral sound profile and easy-to-press feel, the Cloud switch offers a clacky, high-pitched sound and a bouncy, creamy feel. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and typing experience, you can select the switch that best suits your needs. Keep in mind that individual factors such as keycaps and keyboard construction can also influence the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a light touch with a subtle tactile feedback and a neutral sound profile, then the Ash Gray switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a heavier switch with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, along with a bouncy and creamy feel, then the Cloud - 63.5g switch would be more suitable for you. Consider your typing style and environment when making your decision, as both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on what typing experience you value most.
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