HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Gateron Ink Yellow
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron Ink Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron Ink Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes clear that both offer unique features catering to different preferences. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g is praised for its clacky sound profile and heavier feel, appealing to enthusiasts seeking a bright typing experience with a silky smooth feel. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Yellow is known for its shorter travel distance, providing a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. With a pleasant smoothness and clackiness, this switch offers a unique feel. While one may be drawn to the bouncy and creamy characteristics of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g, others may prefer the polished and mild qualities of the Gateron Ink Yellow. 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
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron Ink Yellow, it is clear that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Cloud - 63.5g features a nylon top and bottom housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow uses Gateron's proprietary INK blend for both top and bottom housing, resulting in a pointed and high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the Cloud - 63.5g's nylon housing creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the Ink Yellow's sharper and higher-pitched tone.
Despite their differences, both the Cloud - 63.5g and the Ink Yellow share similar qualities in their housing materials. The nylon top housing of the Cloud - 63.5g and the INK blend top housing of the Ink Yellow both contribute to a distinct sound profile that is characteristic of each switch. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the Cloud - 63.5g and the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Yellow impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, with the softer nylon providing a more cushioned and rounded feel compared to the sharper and more clacky feel of the INK blend.
Overall, the choice between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron Ink Yellow ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. The nylon housing of the Cloud - 63.5g offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the INK blend housing of the Ink Yellow provides a sharper and more high-pitched tone. Whether you prefer a duller and rounder sound or a clackier and more pointed sound, both switches offer a unique typing experience that is sure to satisfy mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, we can see that the Cloud - 63.5g is slightly lighter in both aspects. The Cloud - 63.5g has an actuation force of 56 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Ink Yellow has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a bit of resistance. The slight difference in weight between the two switches may result in a slightly lighter feel for the Cloud - 63.5g compared to the Ink Yellow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces, with the Cloud - 63.5g offering a slightly lighter option for those who prefer a gentler typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, it is clear that the Ink Yellow has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Cloud - 63.5g's 3.9 mm. While both switches fall within the range of modern travel distances, with the traditional being 4.0mm and the shallowest being 3.0mm, the slight difference between the two can impact user preference. Gamers looking for faster response times may gravitate towards the shorter travel distance of the Ink Yellow, while those who prefer a deeper key press might opt for the Cloud - 63.5g. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar typing experience, but the variance in travel distance can cater to different user preferences.
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 Yellow has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Yellow for $7.35.
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
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and bright typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch offers a more neutral and clacky sound, suitable for various typing preferences. When it comes to feel, the Cloud - 63.5g switch is described as bouncy and creamy, offering a lively and silky smooth typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch provides a mild and polished feel, ensuring a gentle and refined typing sensation.
Overall, both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a brighter and more snappy sound with a bouncy and creamy feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch would be ideal for you. On the other hand, if you seek a neutral and clacky sound with a mild and polished feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch would be a suitable choice. In terms of sound, the clacky nature is a common denominator while the feel of the switches varies to offer distinct typing experiences. Depending on your personal preferences, you can achieve similar results with either of these switches as they aim to enhance your overall mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a bright and clacky typing experience with a silky smooth feel, the Cloud - 63.5g may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a shorter travel distance and a more neutral and polished typing experience, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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