HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron Oil King mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note their unique characteristics. The Cloud - 63.5g offers a clacky sound profile and a heavier typing experience, appealing to enthusiasts who enjoy a bright and bouncy feel while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King provides a buttery smoothness and a low-pitched sound profile, reminiscent of snapping a dark chocolate bar. Both switches offer a creamy feel, but the Oil King leans towards a bassy and polished experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Nylon
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
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron Oil King both feature nylon top housings, which are known for providing a deep and full sound profile due to their softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches using nylon top housings. While both switches share this characteristic, the specific design and composition of the nylon material may vary slightly between the two, potentially affecting the overall typing experience in subtle ways.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the Cloud - 63.5g and the Oil King differ significantly. The Cloud - 63.5g utilizes a nylon bottom housing, similar to its top housing, to continue enhancing the deep and full sound profile of the switch. On the other hand, the Oil King features Gateron's proprietary INK blend bottom housing, which is known for producing a pointed, high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. This difference in bottom housing material contributes to the overall sound and feel of the switches, offering users varied tactile experiences depending on their preference for sound and typing sensation.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall switch experience, it is important to note how each housing affects the sound and feel of typing. The qualities of the bottom housing, whether nylon or INK blend, play a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch keys. In contrast, the top housing has a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. While both switches may offer similar typing experiences due to their shared nylon top housings, the differences in their bottom housing materials contribute to distinct sound profiles and tactile sensations that cater to varying user preferences.
Weight
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch have similar actuation forces, with the Cloud - 63.5g requiring 56 grams and the Oil King needing slightly less at 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cloud - 63.5g is lighter with 63.5 grams compared to the Oil King's 65 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, providing a substantial typing experience without being overly taxing. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Cloud - 63.5g may be the better choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Oil King may be preferred by those who enjoy a slightly stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Gateron Oil King linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Oil King has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cloud - 63.5g. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Oil King being more standard at 4 mm. Gamers may prefer the Cloud - 63.5g for its slightly shorter travel distance, which can provide faster response times. On the other hand, those who enjoy a deeper key press may lean towards the Oil King. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of desired travel distance and 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 Gateron Oil King (V2) comes in at $6.50 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King linear switch offers a low-pitched and bassy sound, reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping. Depending on your preference, the Cloud - 63.5g will give you a bright and percussive typing sound, while the Oil King will deliver a deeper and richer tone with each key press.
Moving on to feel, both switches provide a creamy and smooth typing experience. The Cloud - 63.5g offers a bouncy and creamy feel, giving a spring-like feedback sensation and a silky smooth typing experience. Similarly, the Gateron Oil King switch is described as creamy, silky, buttery, and polished, ensuring an exceptionally smooth and effortless keystroke experience. Whether you choose the HMX Cloud - 63.5g or the Gateron Oil King switch, you can expect a luxurious typing experience with minimal resistance and maximum comfort.
In conclusion, both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron Oil King linear switches offer high-quality sound and feel characteristics that cater to enthusiasts seeking a premium typing experience. While the Cloud - 63.5g provides a bright and clacky sound with a bouncy feel, the Oil King delivers a deeper and richer sound with a creamy and silky smooth typing sensation. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preferences for sound profile and typing feel, but rest assured, both switches will offer top-notch performance for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound profile with a bouncy and creamy typing experience, the Cloud - 63.5g might be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a low-pitched and bassy sound with creamy, silky, buttery, or polished typing feel, the Oil King switch could be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you value the most.
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