HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the TKC Tangerine both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The 63.5g variant of the HMX Cloud switch is revered for its clacky sound profile and heavier actuation force, providing enthusiasts with a bright typing experience and a silky smooth feel. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine stands out for its incredibly smooth keystrokes and the use of UHWMPE housings, resulting in a luxurious typing experience. While the Cloud - 63.5g offers a bouncy and creamy typing experience, the Tangerine provides a frictionless and buttery 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the TKC Tangerine switches offer contrasting sound profiles. The Cloud - 63.5g's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. In comparison, the Tangerine's UHWMPE top housing offers a bright sound signature, producing resonant clacks when typing. The difference in sound profiles between the two housing materials can significantly impact the typing experience for users, with the Cloud - 63.5g providing a more muffled and subdued typing sound compared to the Tangerine's crisp and vibrant sound.
On the bottom housing side, both switches feature nylon in the Cloud - 63.5g and UHWMPE in the Tangerine. The nylon bottom housing of the Cloud - 63.5g contributes to its deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its top housing. Conversely, the UHWMPE bottom housing of the Tangerine enhances the bright sound signature, resulting in resonant clacks when typing. While both switches share similarities in their bottom housing material, the distinction in sound profiles remains apparent, highlighting the impact of different materials on the typing experience.
Overall, the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the TKC Tangerine switches showcase the importance of material selection in determining sound profiles. While both switches feature nylon in their bottom housing, the top housing materials - nylon for the Cloud - 63.5g and UHWMPE for the Tangerine - offer distinct sound signatures. Whether users prefer a deeper and fuller sound with the Cloud - 63.5g or a bright and resonant sound with the Tangerine, the choice of housing material plays a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience. Despite differences in sound profiles, both switches aim to provide a unique typing feel and sound that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch differ slightly in weight. The Cloud - 63.5g has a higher actuation force of 56 grams compared to the Tangerine's unknown actuation force. However, the Tangerine has a bottom out force of 62 grams, slightly lower than the Cloud - 63.5g's 63.5 grams. Both switches provide a medium typing experience, with the Cloud - 63.5g being slightly heavier. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the TKC Tangerine for longer typing sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the slightly heavier actuation force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, slightly shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the TKC Tangerine linear switch. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Cloud offering a slightly faster response time due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Cloud for its quick actuation, while others may find the Tangerine's slightly longer travel distance offers a more substantial key press experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of desired responsiveness and key feel.
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 TKC Tangerine comes in at $6.30 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, offering a sharp and crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine switch also produces a high-pitched sound, but with a slightly different twist due to the UHWMPE housings, giving it a unique touch. Both switches cater to users who prefer a brighter sound when typing, and the choice between them will depend on personal preference and the overall keyboard setup.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch offers a bouncy and creamy typing experience, giving users a lively and smooth sensation as they press each key. In contrast, the TKC Tangerine switch provides a frictionless, buttery, and polished feel, ensuring a highly smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance. Both switches prioritize comfort and ease of use, but the specific feel will vary based on individual preferences and typing styles.
In conclusion, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and TKC Tangerine switches both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to enthusiasts seeking a high-quality typing experience. While the Cloud switch leans towards a clackier sound and bouncy feel, the Tangerine switch provides a smoother and more polished sensation with its unique housing material. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference and the desired sound and feel for your mechanical keyboard setup. Whether you opt for the Cloud or Tangerine, you can expect a premium typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a bright and clacky sound profile with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Cloud - 63.5g may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer an incredibly smooth and high-pitched sound with a slightly lighter bottom out force, the Tangerine switch offers a luxurious typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize the clacky feel of the Cloud - 63.5g or the smooth, polished sensation of the Tangerine. Choose the switch that best suits your typing preferences and enhances your overall typing enjoyment.
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