HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the KTT Rose mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note that both are linear switches but offer slightly different experiences. The Cloud - 63.5g is known for its clacky sound profile and heavier actuation force, appealing to enthusiasts who enjoy a bright and bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Rose switch stands out for its progressive springs, providing a substantial yet not heavy feel while typing, accompanied by a soothing sound reminiscent of bassy raindrops. While both switches offer a smooth typing experience, the Cloud - 63.5g leans towards a clacky and high-pitched feel, while the Rose switch provides a more polished and neutral typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the KTT Rose, we can see that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile, with a deeper and fuller sound created by the softer plastic absorbing more sound. However, when it comes to the top housing, the Cloud - 63.5g uses nylon while the Rose uses polycarbonate. This results in a noticeable difference in sound profile, with the Cloud - 63.5g offering a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper and crisper sound of the Rose due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate.
The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the KTT Rose not only affects the sound profile but also offers an aesthetic advantage with its translucency, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g may not provide as visually appealing of an option for those looking to customize their keyboard with lighting effects. Despite this difference, both housing materials offer their own unique benefits in terms of sound profile, with the nylon of the Cloud - 63.5g providing a deeper and fuller sound compared to the crisper and higher-pitched sound of the Rose's polycarbonate.
In terms of tactile experience, the split between the bottom and top housing materials of the switches will impact how they feel and sound during typing. The bottom housing will have more of an influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will affect the sound when releasing a key. This means that while both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the KTT Rose may share similarities in their nylon bottom housing, the differences in their top housing materials will result in distinct typing experiences for users looking to choose between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, we can see that the Cloud - 63.5g has an actuation force of 56 grams, while the Rose's actuation force is unknown. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making them equally medium-heavy in terms of force required to fully press the keys. The Cloud - 63.5g is lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Rose, which may appeal to those who prefer a lighter typing experience for prolonged use. On the other hand, the Rose may be favored by those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the KTT Rose linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Rose switch slightly longer in travel distance compared to the Cloud switch. A difference of 0.1 mm may not seem significant, but it can make a noticeable distinction in the feel and response of the switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Cloud switch with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Rose switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 Rose comes in at $3.01 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
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, offering a sharp and percussive typing experience that is bright and crisp. On the other hand, the KTT Rose linear switch provides a unique sound with bassy raindrop-like tones, giving a more mellow and substantial auditory feedback. It is important to note that sound is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard itself and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Cloud - 63.5g linear switch provides a bouncy and elastic feedback, giving a lively and rebounding sensation while typing. On the contrary, the KTT Rose linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Cloud switch being more bouncy and creamy, while the Rose switch offers a more approachable and gentle feel.
Overall, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cloud switch is geared towards enthusiasts who enjoy a bright and clacky typing experience, while the Rose switch provides a unique and mellow typing feel with bassy tones. Depending on personal preferences and typing habits, both switches can cater to different needs and preferences, ensuring an enjoyable and satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch or the KTT Rose linear switch, it really comes down to your personal preferences. If you are someone who enjoys a bright typing experience with a clacky sound profile and prefers a spring-like, bouncy feel, then the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch would be the way to go. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more mellow typing experience with a bassy sound profile and a polished, smooth feel, then the KTT Rose linear switch might be the better option for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose based on what suits your typing style and preferences best.
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