HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the TTC Speed Silver stand out as top contenders in the market. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g offers a clacky sound profile and a heavier weight, providing enthusiasts with a bright typing experience and silky smooth feel. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver is known for its fast and precise typing experience, with light-medium resistance and a reduced travel distance for quick actuation. While the HMX Cloud - 63.5g caters to those who enjoy a bouncy and high-pitched typing experience, the TTC Speed Silver appeals to those seeking a neutral and polished 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the TTC Speed Silver, one key difference lies in the materials used for the top housing. The Cloud - 63.5g's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Speed Silver's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound profile, attributed to its stiffness that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. This difference in sound profiles can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users of these switches.
On the other hand, when examining the bottom housings of these switches, we find that both the Cloud - 63.5g and the Speed Silver use nylon as their bottom housing material. This results in a similar typing experience for both switches, with the softer nature of nylon providing a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. Thus, despite the differences in the top housing materials, the choice to use nylon for the bottom housing ensures a consistent sound profile for both the Cloud - 63.5g and the Speed Silver switches.
Considering the impact of housing materials on the overall sound profile of a switch, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. This division of qualities emphasizes the importance of selecting housing materials that complement each other to create a cohesive and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, whether using nylon or polycarbonate, the choice of housing material plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile and tactile feedback of mechanical switches like the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and TTC Speed Silver.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Speed Silver is lighter in both aspects. The Speed Silver has a lower actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Cloud - 63.5g's 56 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. Similarly, the Speed Silver's bottom out force of 55 grams is lighter than the Cloud - 63.5g's 63.5 grams, indicating a softer feel when pressing down. This difference in force makes the Speed Silver a more lightweight option, ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions where a lighter touch is preferred. On the other hand, the Cloud - 63.5g offers a more substantial typing experience with its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the TTC Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Cloud - 63.5g offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Speed Silver, providing a bit more depth when pressing down on the key. However, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among users looking for quick response times, particularly gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for the amount of travel distance that feels most comfortable and responsive.
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 TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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 sound profile, providing a sharp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch is known for its bouncy and creamy typing sensation, offering a spring-like feedback and a smooth, buttery experience. In comparison, the TTC Speed Silver switch provides a mild and polished feel, delivering a gentle typing experience with smooth key travel and reduced friction. The choice between these switches would depend on personal preference for the specific typing feel desired.
In conclusion, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch caters to enthusiasts seeking a bright and clacky sound profile, combined with a bouncy and creamy typing feel. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switch offers a neutral sound profile and a mild, polished typing experience suited for a wide range of users. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience. Ultimately, experimenting with different switches on various keyboards and keycaps can help in finding the perfect match for a personalized typing setup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a bright, clacky typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, then the Cloud - 63.5g is the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and precision with a light-medium bottom out force and reduced travel distance, then the Speed Silver is the better choice. Consider the sound and feel characteristics described for each switch to determine which aligns more closely with your typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what will enhance your typing experience and cater to your individual needs.
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