HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 63.5g, a linear switch, and the KTT Phalaenopsis, a tactile switch, one can see the key differences in their characteristics. The Cloud - 63.5g offers a clacky sound profile and a heavier typing experience, catering to enthusiasts who prefer a bright typing feel. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch provides a lighter actuation force, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions with a satisfying tactile bump for each keystroke. While the Cloud switch is bouncy, clacky, creamy, and high-pitched, the Phalaenopsis switch is bassy, stepped, and thocky. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on the user's preferences. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
56g
Actuation force
37g
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
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the KTT Phalaenopsis, one significant difference is seen in their top housing materials. The Cloud - 63.5g features a nylon top housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Phalaenopsis utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This disparity in sound characteristics can greatly influence the overall typing experience for users of these switches.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing materials of these switches, both the Cloud - 63.5g and the Phalaenopsis have differing characteristics as well. The nylon bottom housing of the Cloud - 63.5g delivers a deep and full sound profile similar to its top housing, providing a consistent typing experience throughout. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phalaenopsis contributes to a sharper and crisper sound, enhancing the overall auditory feedback when pressing down on the keys. This contrast in bottom housing materials can lead to variations in tactile feedback and sound for users of these switches.
It is essential to note that the combination of top and bottom housing materials in a switch can significantly impact the overall typing experience. While the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the KTT Phalaenopsis have different housing materials for both the top and bottom, the qualities of each material can be felt throughout the typing process. The bottom housing material will influence the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material will have a stronger impact on the sound when releasing the key. Ultimately, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate housing materials can cater to different preferences for typing sound and feel.
Weight
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a higher actuation force and bottom out force compared to the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch. The actuation force of the Cloud - 63.5g is 56 grams, while the Phalaenopsis is lighter at 37 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Cloud - 63.5g requires 63.5 grams, whereas the Phalaenopsis needs 50 grams. This means that the Cloud - 63.5g switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier touch, while the Phalaenopsis offers a lighter and potentially more comfortable typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions, the Phalaenopsis might be the better option. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial and forceful keystroke may prefer the Cloud - 63.5g. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, slightly shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Cloud - 63.5g being on the shorter side and the Phalaenopsis being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the Cloud - 63.5g for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more satisfying key press may lean towards the Phalaenopsis with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing or gaming 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 KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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 switch is characterized by its clacky and high-pitched profile, offering a sharp and crisp sound during key presses. In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch provides a bassy and thocky sound, delivering a deeper and richer tone with each keystroke. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, catering to different preferences in sound profiles. However, it is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard's build and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch is praised for its bouncy and creamy sensation, providing a lively and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch is described as stepped, offering a tactile feedback with a two-stage feel compared to the more uniform bump of other tactile switches. Both switches aim to enhance the typing feel by providing different levels of feedback to the user. Ultimately, the choice between a bouncy and creamy feel or a stepped feel comes down to personal preference in typing experience.
In conclusion, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and KTT Phalaenopsis switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cloud switch caters to enthusiasts seeking a bright and clacky typing experience with a silky smooth feel, the Phalaenopsis switch appeals to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience with a discernible tactile bump. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics, allowing users to select based on their individual preferences for sound and feel. Ultimately, whether opting for the HMX Cloud - 63.5g or the KTT Phalaenopsis switch, users can expect a satisfying typing experience tailored to their preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, consider your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a heavier keystroke with a clacky sound profile and a smooth feel, the Cloud - 63.5g may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a tactile bump for enhanced typing feedback, the Phalaenopsis switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it's essential to choose based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you.
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