HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the TTC Neptune 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 Neptune both offer unique typing experiences for users to enjoy. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g is a linear switch with a clacky sound profile that appeals to enthusiasts looking for a bright typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune stands out with its innovative internal structure, providing a smooth, frictionless glide paired with a springy resistance that resembles chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls. While the HMX Cloud - 63.5g is bouncy and high-pitched, the Neptune is buttery and low-pitched. If you prefer a silky smooth feel and a clacky sound, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g may be the switch for you. However, if you are seeking a unique matte feel with a balanced and muted typing experience, the TTC Neptune could be the perfect choice. 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
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound that is appealing to many users. In contrast, the TTC Neptune incorporates POM for its top housing and polycarbonate for its bottom housing. The POM top housing produces a unique and pleasing sound that is on the deeper side, while the polycarbonate bottom housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile.
While both the Cloud - 63.5g and Neptune offer distinct sound profiles due to their different housing materials, they both excel in providing a satisfying typing experience. The nylon housing of the Cloud - 63.5g absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the POM top housing of the Neptune creates a unique and muted sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Neptune produces a sharper and crisper sound compared to the rounder sound of the nylon bottom housing of the Cloud - 63.5g.
In terms of typing feel, the bottom housing material has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. Both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and TTC Neptune offer users a tactile typing experience, with the choice between nylon and POM or polycarbonate providing distinct sound profiles. Whether you prefer the deeper and fuller sound of nylon or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with their unique housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, it is evident that the Neptune is the lighter of the two. The Cloud - 63.5g has an actuation force of 56 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Neptune features an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option. Those who prefer a lighter typing feel may opt for the Neptune, while those who prefer a stronger push may lean towards the Cloud - 63.5g. In both cases, users can expect satisfactory results, as the actuation and bottom out forces are well-matched to provide an enjoyable typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, slightly longer than the TTC Neptune linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. While both switches have relatively short travel distances, the Cloud - 63.5g offers just a slightly deeper key press compared to the Neptune. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the slightly shorter travel distance of the Neptune, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Cloud - 63.5g. Overall, both switches offer a similar travel distance, providing a quick and responsive typing 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 TTC Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune for $5.09.
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 offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, giving off a sharp and percussive noise when pressed. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune switch presents a low-pitched and muted sound, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that emphasizes quietness and refinement. While the Cloud switch may cater to those who enjoy a bright and crisp typing experience, the Neptune switch appeals to users seeking a more subtle and subdued auditory ambiance. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch will also depend on factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch delivers a bouncy and creamy typing experience, giving users a lively and smooth sensation with each keystroke. Contrastingly, the TTC Neptune switch offers a buttery and frictionless feel, providing a seamless and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance or friction. While the Cloud switch may offer a bouncier and more elastic feedback, the Neptune switch prioritizes a smoother and more fluid keystroke. The choice between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference for typing feel, whether one prefers a more lively bounce or a sleek gliding sensation.
Overall, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cloud switch presents a bright and clacky sound profile with a bouncy and creamy typing feel, catering to enthusiasts who enjoy a more vibrant and elastic typing experience. On the other hand, the Neptune switch provides a muted and low-pitched sound with a buttery and frictionless typing feel, appealing to users looking for a more refined and smooth typing sensation. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience, ensuring users will receive satisfying results with either choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, your decision should be based on your preference for typing experience. If you are someone who enjoys a bright and clacky sound profile with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, almost frictionless typing experience with a light bottom out force and a muted sound signature, the TTC Neptune linear switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, it all boils down to personal preference and the type of typing sensation you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch. Choose wisely based on what suits your typing style the best.
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