HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. TKC Kiwi
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the TKC Kiwi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g, a linear switch, and the TKC Kiwi, a tactile switch, there are distinct differences to consider. The Cloud - 63.5g offers a clacky sound profile and a heavier actuation force, which appeals to enthusiasts seeking a bright typing experience with a silky smooth feel. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi provides a tactile typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, delivering a satisfyingly snappy sound profile right out of the box. While the Cloud - 63.5g caters to those who prefer a bouncy and high-pitched feel, the Kiwi stands out with its stepped, low-pitched, and polished characteristics. 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
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the TKC Kiwi differ significantly in their housing materials. The Cloud - 63.5g features nylon top and bottom housings, known for creating a deep and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Kiwi uses UHWMPE for both its top and bottom housings, offering a bright sound signature with resonant clacks during typing. This stark contrast in materials results in different auditory experiences for users of each switch.
Despite their differences, both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the TKC Kiwi share similarities in their housing materials. Both switches utilize specialized materials to enhance the sound produced during typing, with the Cloud - 63.5g's nylon offering a deeper sound profile and the Kiwi's UHWMPE providing a brighter, more resonant sound. Although the specific characteristics of each material vary, both switches aim to provide users with an enhanced typing experience through the unique qualities of their housing materials.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch play a significant role in determining the overall sound and feel of the key press. With the HMX Cloud - 63.5g using nylon for both top and bottom housings, the impact of the material is evenly distributed throughout the switch. In contrast, the TKC Kiwi's utilization of UHWMPE for both housing components ensures a consistent sound signature and feel across the entire switch, resulting in a cohesive typing experience for users. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference for the type of sound and feel desired during typing.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, it is clear that both fall within the medium-heavy category in terms of overall force required. The Cloud - 63.5g has a slightly lighter actuation force of 56 grams compared to the Kiwi's 43 grams. However, the Cloud - 63.5g has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams compared to the Kiwi's 67 grams. The Cloud - 63.5g provides a more consistent typing feel throughout the keystroke, while the Kiwi offers a more tactile feedback with a slightly heavier bottom out force. In terms of weight preference, the Cloud - 63.5g may be preferred by those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, while the Kiwi may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial push feel for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a balance of actuation and bottom out force that can cater to different preferences in typing feel.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, which is shorter than the TKC Kiwi tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Cloud - 63.5g switch would provide a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Kiwi tactile switch offers a slightly deeper key press feel with its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 per 10 switches.
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 Cloud - 63.5g switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp typing experience that is bright and percussive. On the other hand, the Kiwi switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound, giving a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various preferences. The Kiwi switch may offer a more moderate and versatile sound profile compared to the more unique and vibrant sound of the Cloud - 63.5g switch.
In regards to feel, the Cloud - 63.5g switch provides a bouncy and creamy typing experience, offering a lively and spring-like feedback sensation with smooth and buttery keystrokes. In contrast, the Kiwi switch offers a stepped, accented, and polished feel, providing a tactile experience with two stages of feedback that is prominent yet not overwhelming. The Kiwi switch may offer a more refined and subtle tactile feel compared to the more pronounced bounce of the Cloud - 63.5g switch.
Overall, if you prefer a sharp and bright typing sound with a spring-like and buttery feel, the Cloud - 63.5g switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more versatile and moderate sound profile with a stepped and accented tactile feel, the Kiwi switch could be a preferred option. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience based on your personal preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch or the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences for typing experience. If you are looking for a brighter and clackier sound profile with a smooth and bouncy feel, the Cloud - 63.5g may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more immersive typing experience with a satisfying tactile bump at the top of each keystroke and a smooth, polished feel, the Kiwi switch would be more suitable. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so it is important to consider what aspects are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to whether you prioritize sound and feel or tactility and smoothness in your typing experience.
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