HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the KTT Semi Mute offer distinct typing experiences. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g is a linear switch known for its clacky sound profile and bright typing experience, making it a favorite among enthusiasts who enjoy a bouncy and creamy feel while typing. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute is a linear switch designed for a noise-free environment, with advanced dampening technology providing a buttery and muted typing feel. While the HMX Cloud - 63.5g caters to those seeking a more pronounced typing experience, the KTT Semi Mute is tailored for individuals who value a quieter workspace. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g's housing materials consist of nylon for both the top and bottom housing, creating a switch that elicits a deep and full sound profile. The nylon material is softer, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency.
In terms of typing experience, the differences in housing materials between the two switches may result in distinct tactile and auditory feedback. The nylon bottom housing of the Cloud - 63.5g contributes to a deeper and fuller sound upon bottoming out keys, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Semi Mute likely produces a crisper and more resonant sound profile during typing. Conversely, the top housing material of each switch may impact the sound when releasing a key, with nylon creating a rounder sound on the Cloud - 63.5g and polycarbonate providing a clear sound on the Semi Mute.
Despite their differences in housing materials, both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the KTT Semi Mute aim to enhance the typing experience through distinct sound profiles. While the nylon and polycarbonate materials offer unique acoustic characteristics, the overall goal of providing a satisfying typing experience remains consistent. Whether it be the deeper and fuller sound of nylon in the Cloud - 63.5g or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Semi Mute, users can expect a tactile and auditory experience tailored to their preferences in either switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, it is evident that the Cloud - 63.5g is heavier in both aspects. The Cloud - 63.5g has an actuation force of 56 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, placing it in the medium category. The lighter actuation and bottom out force of the KTT Semi Mute may appeal to those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, while the heavier force of the Cloud - 63.5g caters to individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9mm, which is slightly shorter than the 4mm travel distance of the KTT Semi Mute linear switch. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Cloud - 63.5g being slightly shorter. Gamers may prefer the Cloud - 63.5g for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a deeper key press may lean towards the Semi Mute with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for keypress feel and responsiveness.
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 Semi Mute has an MSRP of $3.97 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi Mute for $3.55.
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 profile, providing a sharp and percussive typing experience that is bright and crisp. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switch provides a muted and neutral sound, ensuring a quieter typing environment without sacrificing comfort or satisfaction. Depending on your preference for sound, the Cloud - 63.5g will give you a more intense auditory feedback, while the Semi Mute will deliver a more subdued and subtle typing experience.
In terms of feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch offers a bouncy and creamy sensation, providing a lively and smooth typing experience that is both spring-like and buttery. Conversely, the KTT Semi Mute switch offers a buttery and mild feel, ensuring a seamless and gentle typing sensation that falls into a safe middle-ground zone of comfort. Whether you prefer a more lively and elastic feedback or a smoother and gentler typing experience, both switches cater to different preferences in terms of tactile feedback.
Overall, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that provides a loud and bright typing experience with a bouncy and creamy feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a noise-free environment and desire a more muted sound profile with a buttery and mild typing feel, the KTT Semi Mute switch would be the perfect fit. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that you will get satisfying results based on your specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you enjoy a bright and clacky typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Cloud - 63.5g switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prioritize a noise-free environment and desire a smooth and quiet typing feel with a slightly lighter bottom out force, the KTT Semi Mute switch is the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value the sound profile and typing feel that each switch offers. Choose wisely based on your personal preferences and needs.
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