HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. TTC Iron
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the TTC Iron switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the TTC Iron both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g is best known for its clacky sound profile and heavier actuation force, providing a bright typing experience for enthusiasts who enjoy a bouncy and high-pitched feel. On the other hand, the TTC Iron stands out for its pronounced clacky sound signature and remarkably light actuation force, offering a buttery smooth travel for swift and fatigue-free typing sessions. While the HMX Cloud - 63.5g may appeal to those seeking a creamy and high-pitched typing feel, the TTC Iron is a great choice for users looking for easy-to-press switches with a neutral and mild sensation. 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
41g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g and TTC Iron both offer unique qualities in their housing materials. The Cloud - 63.5g uses nylon for both its top and bottom housing, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Iron utilizes POM for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper and more muted side. Despite their differences in material, both switches offer a unique typing experience with their distinct sound profiles.
One difference between the two switches lies in their top housing materials. The Cloud - 63.5g features a nylon top housing, which creates a duller and rounder sound when typing. In contrast, the Iron's POM top housing produces a sound profile that is deeper and relatively more muted. This variation in sound can significantly impact the typing experience for users, offering a different auditory feedback depending on the switch being used.
When comparing the bottom housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and TTC Iron, both switches continue to demonstrate their unique sound profiles. The nylon bottom housing of the Cloud - 63.5g contributes to its deep and fuller sound profile, while the POM bottom housing of the Iron adds to its pleasing and unique sound experience. Despite the differences in material, both switches aim to provide users with a distinct typing and sound experience that sets them apart in the mechanical keyboard market.
Weight
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 56 grams compared to the TTC Iron linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cloud - 63.5g requires 63.5 grams of force while the Iron needs 50 grams, making the Iron the lighter option overall. The Cloud - 63.5g offers a more substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy forces, making it a preferred choice for those who enjoy a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Iron's lighter forces make it suitable for users looking for a smoother and lighter typing experience, perfect for extended periods of typing. Although the actuation and bottom out forces differ between the two switches, users can still achieve similar results depending on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the TTC Iron linear switch, we see that the Cloud has a travel distance of 3.9 mm while the Iron has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. The difference of 0.1 mm may not be noticeable to most users, but those who prefer a slightly deeper key press may opt for the Cloud switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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 TTC Iron switches are described as having a clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy sound with each press. While the Cloud switch offers a high-pitched sound, the Iron switch is noted for its neutral sound, suitable for various intents and purposes. Ultimately, the sound produced by these switches will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch is known for its bouncy and creamy sensation, providing a spring-like feedback and a smooth, buttery typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Iron switch offers an easy-to-press feel, requiring minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by offering unique tactile feedback tailored to different preferences.
Overall, while the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and TTC Iron switches may differ in sound and feel, both provide enthusiasts and daily users with distinct qualities that cater to specific preferences. Whether you prefer a bright, clacky switch with a heavier actuation like the Cloud or a lighter, more neutral feeling switch like the Iron, rest assured that both options offer a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the TTC Iron linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a heavier switch with a clacky sound profile and a silky smooth feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter switch with a pronounced clacky sound signature, swift actuation, and buttery smooth travel, the TTC Iron linear switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
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