HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. TTC Gold Red
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the TTC Gold Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the TTC Gold Red mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note their key characteristics and what sets them apart. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g is a linear switch known for its clacky sound profile and heavier actuation force of 63.5g, providing a bright typing experience favored by enthusiasts. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red offers a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a snappy sound profile. While the HMX Cloud - 63.5g is bouncy, clacky, and creamy, the TTC Gold Red is thocky, low-pitched, and subtle. Each switch offers unique features that may appeal to different preferences, but ultimately, the best choice depends on the individual's typing style and 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
43g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g and TTC Gold Red both use nylon for their bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softness of the material. This similarity ensures that typing on both switches will elicit a similar duller and rounder sound. However, the difference lies in their top housing material, with the Cloud - 63.5g utilizing nylon, resulting in a deeper sound profile, while the Gold Red employs polycarbonate for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This contrast in top housing material showcases how the choice of material can impact the overall sound profile of a switch, catering to different preferences among users.
In terms of aesthetics, the TTC Gold Red stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which allows for a clear housing design that is more visually appealing, especially when paired with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g's nylon top housing may not offer the same level of transparency or visual appeal as the polycarbonate material. Despite this difference in appearance, both switches deliver a satisfying sound profile that is influenced by the unique properties of their respective housing materials. Whether it's the softer, absorbing nature of nylon in the Cloud or the stiffer, clearer qualities of polycarbonate in the Gold Red, each material contributes to a distinct typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and TTC Gold Red comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and aesthetics. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing for a deeper sound profile, the differing top housing materials result in contrasting sound qualities that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer the duller and rounder sound of nylon in the Cloud or the crisper and resonant sound of polycarbonate in the Gold Red, each switch offers a unique typing experience that is influenced by its housing materials. Regardless of the differences, both switches provide quality construction and reliable performance for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch, it is evident that the Gold Red is lighter in both respects. The Cloud - 63.5g has a higher actuation force of 56 grams compared to the Gold Red's 43 grams, making it the heavier option for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Additionally, the Cloud - 63.5g has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is higher than the Gold Red's 50 grams. This means that the Cloud - 63.5g will require a firmer press to fully engage the keystroke compared to the Gold Red. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time may favor the Gold Red switch, while those who enjoy a heavier actuation force may lean towards the Cloud - 63.5g. Both switches offer different experiences based on the user's preference, so choosing the right one comes down to personal preference for typing and gaming needs.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch, it is evident that the Cloud - 63.5g has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.9 mm compared to the Gold Red's 4 mm travel distance. The difference between the two is minor, with the Cloud - 63.5g providing a slightly quicker keystroke due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Cloud - 63.5g, while those who enjoy a more pronounced key press may opt for the Gold Red. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances and will likely offer similar results in terms of typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
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 TTC Gold Red has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red for $3.28.
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, providing a sharp and bright typing experience that appeals to enthusiasts seeking a more percussive sound. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red switch has a thocky, low-pitched, or neutral sound profile, with a deeper and more mellow tone that adds a touch of personality without being overwhelming. If you prefer a snappy and high-pitched sound, the Cloud - 63.5g switch is the way to go. However, if you enjoy a deeper and richer sound, the Gold Red switch offers a different auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch offers a bouncy and creamy typing experience, providing a springy feedback and a smooth, buttery sensation that enhances your typing performance. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red switch provides a mild, silky, subtle, or polished feel, offering a gentle and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Whether you prefer a lively and creamy feel with a bouncy feedback or a gentle and polished sensation with minimal resistance, both switches cater to different preferences in terms of typing feel.
In conclusion, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and TTC Gold Red switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Cloud - 63.5g switch provides a clacky and bouncy typing experience with a sharp and bright sound profile, the Gold Red switch offers a thocky and silky feel with a deep and mellow sound signature. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can choose between the two switches to customize your typing experience to suit your personal tastes. Regardless of which switch you choose, both offer a high-quality typing experience that will elevate your keyboard performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a brighter, clackier sound profile and prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, then the Cloud - 63.5g may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a smoother, buttery typing experience with a lighter bottom out force and a more subtle sound profile, the Gold Red switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the type of sound and feel that best complements your typing needs.
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