HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 63.5g, a linear switch, and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish, a tactile switch, it's important to consider the differences in feel and sound profile. The Cloud - 63.5g is favored for its clacky sound profile and heavier actuation force, providing a bright typing experience that appeals to enthusiasts. On the other hand, the EF Grayish switches offer a medium weight with a neutral sound signature, making them a great default tactile option at an approachable price point. While the Cloud - 63.5g may be preferred for its bouncy and creamy feel, the EF Grayish stands out with its snappy and stepped tactile feedback. 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
59g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
Overall, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches have different housing materials that significantly affect their sound profiles. The Cloud - 63.5g utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Grayish features a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to nylon. This difference in housing material leads to distinct typing experiences and auditory feedback for users of each switch.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish, both switches boast qualities that enhance the typing experience. The nylon top housing of the Cloud - 63.5g provides a rounder sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the EverFree (EF) Grayish offers a clearer and resonant sound. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, making typing on either switch enjoyable for users seeking a satisfying auditory experience during typing sessions.
In terms of aesthetics, the choice of housing material plays a significant role in the overall appearance of the switches. The translucent nature of polycarbonate in the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the typing experience. In contrast, the classic look of nylon in the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch provides a timeless and understated design that may appeal to users seeking a more traditional aesthetic. Ultimately, the housing materials of these switches offer unique sound profiles and visual characteristics that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The actuation force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch is 56 grams, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has an actuation force of 59 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g requires 63.5 grams, and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch's bottom out force is unknown. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g is slightly lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch. This makes the HMX Cloud - 63.5g an option for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch may be more suitable for users who prefer a heavier push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the individual's preference for typing force and comfort.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has the shorter travel distance compared to the Cloud - 63.5g linear switch. The shorter travel distance of the EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch may be preferred by gamers for its faster response times, while the slightly longer travel distance of the Cloud - 63.5g linear switch might be favored by those who prefer a deeper key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish has an MSRP of $2.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EverFree (EF) Grayish for $2.69.
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 typing experience, creating a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch provides a more neutral sound profile, suitable for most users with its moderate actuation force requirement. Keep in mind that the actual sound produced by the switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch is known for its bouncy and creamy typing sensation, offering a lively and smooth experience with each keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch provides a stepped and snappy feel, offering a more mild tactile feedback compared to hypersensitive switches. These differences in tactile feedback can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users, so it's essential to consider personal preference when choosing between the two switches.
Considering all the available information, it's evident that the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics catering to different preferences. If you prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound with a bouncy and creamy typing feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile and a stepped, snappy tactile feel, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, selecting the right switch comes down to individual preference and typing style to ensure an optimal typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you are looking for a bright and clacky sound profile with a medium-heavy feel, the Cloud - 63.5g may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound signature and a medium weight with a more approachable price point, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch could be a great option. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference in sound and feel, so choose the one that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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