HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options stand out: the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron Smoothie, both linear switches with their own unique characteristics. The Cloud - 63.5g is praised for its clacky sound profile and heavier actuation force, appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate a bright typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie boasts an all-POM construction, delivering a thocky sound signature and a remarkably smooth feel, all at an affordable price point. While the Cloud - 63.5g offers a bouncy and high-pitched typing experience, the Smoothie provides a buttery and low-pitched feel. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron Smoothie both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profile. The Cloud - 63.5g utilizes a nylon top housing, which is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Smoothie's POM top housing creates a more muted sound profile that is still on the deeper side. While both materials offer a deeper tone, the nylon housing of the Cloud may produce a slightly rounder sound compared to the POM housing of the Smoothie.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Cloud - 63.5g's nylon bottom housing and the Smoothie's POM bottom housing contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both materials are softer plastics that absorb sound, creating a duller and more rounded sound. The differences between the two may come down to the specific characteristics of nylon versus POM, with nylon potentially offering a slightly different sound profile compared to POM. Overall, both bottom housings work to enhance the overall typing experience by providing a more pleasing and unique sound.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches, it becomes clear that each material plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. While the Cloud - 63.5g and the Smoothie may have differences in their housing materials, ultimately, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique sound profiles. Whether one prefers the deeper, fuller sound of nylon or the more muted sound of POM, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch differ significantly. The Cloud - 63.5g switch has an actuation force of 56 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. The Cloud - 63.5g switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, while the Smoothie switch offers a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, selecting the appropriate switch depends on individual preferences, with some opting for a lighter touch for prolonged use and others preferring a heavier push for a more tactile typing feel.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Gateron Smoothie has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the HMX Cloud - 63.5g. The difference of 0.3 mm may not seem significant, but for some users, it can affect the overall typing experience. Gamers, for example, may prefer the Gateron Smoothie for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may opt for the HMX Cloud - 63.5g with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, with both switches offering unique benefits based on their respective travel distances.
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 Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch offers a clacky and high-pitched typing experience, with a sharp and bright sound profile that caters to enthusiasts who enjoy a crisp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie switch provides a thocky and low-pitched sound signature, creating a deep and rich tone that is satisfying to the ear. The Smoothie switch also has a subdued sound, offering a more dampened and subtle sound compared to most switches. Sound preferences can vary greatly among individuals, so it's important to consider the overall sound profile of each switch along with factors like keycaps and keyboard construction.
When considering the feel of the switches, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch is bouncy and creamy, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation while also offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. This switch delivers a lively and rebounding feel, making typing a comfortable and enjoyable experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless, effortless, and uniform. The Smoothie switch enhances the overall smoothness of the typing feel, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. When comparing the feel of both switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of feedback and typing sensation.
In conclusion, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and Gateron Smoothie switches provide unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Cloud - 63.5g switch offers a clacky sound profile and bouncy, creamy feel, the Smoothie switch delivers a thocky sound and buttery, silky feel. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to enthusiasts looking for a specific typing experience. It's important to consider individual preferences, typing habits, and overall typing experience when choosing between these switches to ensure a satisfying and enjoyable mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch or the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a clacky sound profile and silky smooth feel, the Cloud - 63.5g may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for an affordable switch with a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch, then the Gateron Smoothie might be the way to go. Consider your typing preferences, whether you prefer a brighter or deeper sound, and whether you enjoy a bouncier or buttery typing experience when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron Smoothie will depend on what feel and sound profile resonate with you the most.
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