HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch to the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, some key differences stand out. The Cloud - 63.5g offers a clacky sound profile and a heavier actuation force, perfect for enthusiasts seeking a bright typing experience with a silky smooth feel. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i provides gentle tactility in each keystroke, making it ideal for office environments where a quieter typing experience is desired. While the Cloud - 63.5g caters to those who enjoy a more pronounced typing feedback, the Mini i strikes a balance with a muted sound profile without sacrificing satisfying feedback. 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
40g
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
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron Mini i share the same nylon top and bottom housing components. Both switches utilize nylon as a housing material, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer plastic properties that absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches, creating a unique and satisfying typing experience for users.
While the housing materials of the Cloud - 63.5g and the Mini i are the same, the different design elements of these switches may still offer slightly varied typing experiences. The bottom housing of a switch typically has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed down, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Despite these distinctions, the nylon construction of both switches ensures a consistent typing experience with a deep and full sound profile that is characteristic of this classic switch housing material.
Overall, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron Mini i offer similar results in terms of their housing materials. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the nylon top and bottom housing components. Users can expect a consistent and enjoyable typing experience with either switch, thanks to the sound-absorbing properties of nylon that create a duller and rounder sound when typing. Whether choosing the Cloud - 63.5g or the Mini i, users can enjoy the benefits of nylon housing in enhancing their typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, it is evident that the Mini i switch is lighter in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force. The Cloud - 63.5g requires a higher actuation force of 56 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. In contrast, the Mini i switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as a lighter option. This means that individuals looking for a more effortless typing experience may prefer the Gateron Mini i switch, while those desiring a more substantial push feel may lean towards the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The difference of 0.5 mm between the two may not be noticeable to everyone, but for those who prefer a slightly deeper keystroke, the Cloud - 63.5g may be the better option. On the other hand, if a shorter and quicker keystroke is more appealing, the Gateron Mini i would be the preferred choice. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, so the choice between the two would depend on individual preference and typing style.
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 Mini i comes in at $6.00 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 HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, which creates a sharp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i switch offers a more neutral sound profile, striking a balance between actuation force and sound level to suit a variety of typing environments. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound, with the Cloud - 63.5g providing a brighter and more intense typing experience compared to the Mini i's more subtle and muted sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch is described as bouncy and creamy, offering a spring-like feedback sensation and a smooth, buttery typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i switch provides a variety of feel options including bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped characteristics. These qualities make the Mini i switch versatile and suitable for individuals who prefer a gentler typing feel with responsive feedback. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience but cater to different preferences in terms of keypress feedback and resistance.
In conclusion, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch is best suited for enthusiasts who enjoy a bright and intense typing experience with a clacky sound profile and a bouncy, creamy feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i switch caters to a more versatile user base with its neutral sound profile and a variety of feel options including bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped characteristics. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer high-quality typing experiences that will satisfy different users' needs. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you enjoy a bright, clacky typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force, the Cloud - 63.5g may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more muted sound profile with gentle tactility and a lighter actuation force for comfortable typing in a professional setting, the Gateron Mini i would be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the atmosphere in which you'll be using the keyboard.
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