HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Gateron Ink Box Black
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron Ink Box Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron Ink Box Black mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The Cloud - 63.5g is best suited for enthusiasts who enjoy a bright typing experience with its clacky sound profile and heavier actuation force. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black is known for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel, accompanied by a sound signature reminiscent of a shaking spray paint can. While the Cloud - 63.5g offers a bouncy and creamy typing experience, the Gateron Ink Box Black provides a polished and silky smooth feel. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In terms of materials, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g uses nylon for both its top and bottom housing, while the Gateron Ink Box Black uses a proprietary INK blend for both components. This means that both switches will offer a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. However, the Ink Box Black may provide a slightly higher-pitched sound compared to the Cloud - 63.5g, which is described as clacky. This difference in sound profile can impact the overall typing experience for users who prefer a certain type of sound.
Despite the differences in sound profile between the two switches, the use of nylon in the Cloud - 63.5g and the proprietary INK blend in the Gateron Ink Box Black both contribute to a satisfying typing experience overall. Both materials offer their own unique qualities, with nylon providing a duller and rounder sound while the INK blend offers a more pointed and high-pitched sound. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of overall sound and feel when using either switch, with subtle differences in tone and texture.
The split between the top and bottom housing materials in a switch can also impact the typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. This means that the choice of housing materials for both the top and bottom components can play a significant role in the overall sound profile and tactile feedback of a switch. Whether nylon or the INK blend is used, users can expect a well-balanced typing experience with either the HMX Cloud - 63.5g or the Gateron Ink Box Black.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, it is evident that the Cloud - 63.5g is lighter in terms of actuation force at 56 grams, while the Ink Box Black requires a slightly heavier force of 60 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cloud - 63.5g has a lighter touch at 63.5 grams compared to the 70 grams needed for the Ink Box Black. Overall, both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, providing a substantial typing experience for users who prefer a bit of resistance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, it is evident that the Cloud - 63.5g has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.9 mm compared to the Ink Box Black's 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among users looking for quick responsiveness, especially in gaming scenarios. Gamers may find the Cloud - 63.5g to provide a slightly more substantial keypress feel due to its longer travel distance, while the Ink Box Black may offer a slightly quicker response due to its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and how it affects typing or gaming experience.
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 Ink Box Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Black for $7.65.
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
When it comes to sound, both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and Gateron Ink Box Black switches share similar attributes, being described as clacky and high-pitched. While the Cloud - 63.5g offers a sharp and snappy sound, reminiscent of a bright and percussive typing experience, the Ink Box Black delivers a sound profile likened to a spray paint can being shaken. Depending on your preference, both switches will provide a distinctive auditory feedback that can enhance your typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch is known for its bouncy and creamy sensation, offering a lively and elastic feedback with a smooth and buttery typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black switch provides a silky and polished feel, delivering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches prioritize smoothness and comfort, ensuring that each keystroke feels satisfying and effortless.
In conclusion, while the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and Gateron Ink Box Black switches may differ slightly in sound and feel, they both excel in providing a premium typing experience. Whether you prefer the clacky and bright sound of the Cloud - 63.5g or the silky and polished feel of the Ink Box Black, you can expect similar results in terms of smoothness and satisfaction when typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and what qualities you prioritize in your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a bright, clacky sound and a bouncy, creamy feel, the Cloud - 63.5g might be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, silky sound and a polished, silky feel, the Ink Box Black could suit your preferences better. Ultimately, your choice should be based on whether you prioritize sound or feel in your typing experience.
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