HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron Quinn offer distinct typing experiences for different preferences. The Cloud - 63.5g is a linear switch that is favored by enthusiasts who appreciate a bright typing experience with a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Quinn is a tactile switch that provides a unique combination of crisp tactility and a deep, resonant sound, thanks to its specially designed nylon housings. While the Cloud - 63.5g offers a silky smooth feel and a high-pitched sound, the Quinn delivers a precise, clean, and crisp tactile bump with a low-pitched, buttery sound. Each switch has its own set of characteristics that cater to specific needs and preferences. 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
59g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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 gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron Quinn use nylon as their housing material, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs sound better than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. This means that users can expect a similar tactile experience with both switches, as the housing material plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the typing experience.
However, despite both switches using nylon as their housing material, there may be subtle differences in the sound profiles due to variations in the design and construction of the switches. For example, the Cloud - 63.5g may have a slightly different sound when bottoming out compared to the Quinn, as the bottom housing of a switch can impact the bottom-out sound and feel. Similarly, the top housing of a switch can affect the sound when releasing a key, so even with the same housing material, there may be slight distinctions in the overall typing experience between the two switches.
Overall, the choice between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron Quinn may come down to personal preference and any specific features or design elements that one switch offers over the other. Both switches offer a deep and full sound profile while typing, thanks to their nylon housing material. So, for users who prioritize sound and feel while typing, either switch would likely provide a satisfying typing experience with similar results in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch are both in the medium-heavy range. The Cloud - 63.5g has an actuation force of 56 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Quinn has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams. In terms of weight, the Cloud - 63.5g is slightly lighter than the Quinn, but both switches offer a similar typing experience due to their comparable actuation and bottom out forces. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Cloud - 63.5g may be the better choice. However, if a stronger push feel is desired for a more substantial typing experience, the Quinn may be the preferred option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and typing style.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch have different travel distances. The Cloud - 63.5g has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Quinn has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Quinn may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the slightly longer travel distance of the Cloud - 63.5g may provide a more satisfying and deliberate key press for those who prefer a bit more depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience you are looking for. Both switches offer unique characteristics that will cater to different needs.
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 Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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 offers a clacky and high-pitched experience, providing a sharp and crisp sound that is bright and percussive. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch provides a bassy, clacky, and resonant sound profile, offering a deep and rich sound with a clean and sharp auditory experience. Both switches excel in providing a unique sound signature that adds character to the typing experience, with the Cloud switch leaning towards a brighter sound while the Quinn switch offers a deeper and richer tone.
In terms of feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch is known for its bouncy and creamy typing experience, offering a spring-like feedback sensation with a smooth and buttery feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch provides a snappy and polished typing experience, with responsive key presses and smooth key travel. Both switches deliver a tactile bump that enhances the typing feedback, with the Cloud switch providing a lively and elastic feel, while the Quinn switch offers a refined and smooth keystroke.
Overall, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cloud switch delivers a clacky and high-pitched sound with a bouncy and creamy feel, the Quinn switch provides a bassy and resonant sound with a snappy and polished feel. Whether you prefer a brighter typing experience with a spring-like feedback or a deeper sound profile with a responsive and smooth keystroke, both switches cater to different preferences and offer a delightful typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, but rest assured that both options will provide an enjoyable and immersive typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a brighter typing experience with a clacky sound profile and a silky smooth feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that offers a unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to your personal typing preferences and the auditory and tactile sensations you value most in a keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
