HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron Type S both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g is known for its clacky sound profile and bouncy feel, making it a favorite among enthusiasts who enjoy a bright typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S stands out for its contemporary factory lubing techniques, resulting in a smoother and more subdued typing experience. While the HMX Cloud - 63.5g offers a brighter and creamier feel, the Gateron Type S provides a weightier keystroke with a neutral yet deeper acoustic experience. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron Type S is that they are both made of nylon. This means that both switches will elicit a deep and fuller sound profile due to the relatively softer plastic absorbing more sound than harder plastics. Therefore, in terms of sound quality and typing experience, users can expect similar results from both switches.
However, where the materials differ is in their impact on the switch's feel and sound profile. The bottom housing of the Cloud - 63.5g will have a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down. In contrast, the bottom housing of the Type S will also affect the switch's feel but in a different way. On the other hand, the top housing of each switch will play a more significant role in the sound emitted when a key is released, providing a more tactile and audible experience for users.
Overall, while both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron Type S utilize nylon as their housing material, the way in which this material is distributed between the top and bottom housings of each switch results in slightly different typing experiences. The Cloud - 63.5g may offer a slightly softer and more rounded sound profile due to its housing configuration, while the Type S may provide a slightly crisper and more defined typing sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to individual preference for sound and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, we can see that the Cloud - 63.5g has a slightly lighter actuation force of 56 grams compared to the Type S's 55 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Type S is heavier at 65 grams compared to the Cloud - 63.5g's 63.5 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, with the Type S being slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g may be the better choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch is slightly shorter at 3.9 mm compared to the Gateron Type S linear switch at 4 mm. While the 0.1 mm may seem like a small difference, it can impact the overall typing or gaming experience. The Cloud switch offers a slightly quicker response time due to the shorter travel distance, which may be preferred by gamers looking for a faster input. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S switch provides a slightly deeper feel with its longer travel distance, which could be favored by those who prefer a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of feel you are looking for in a keyboard switch.
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 Type S comes in at $4.70 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch is known for its sharp and clacky noise when pressed, giving users a bright and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound profile, providing a dampened and subtle sound when typing. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the bright and high-pitched sound of the Cloud - 63.5g or the more neutral and subdued sound of the Type S.
In terms of feel, the Cloud - 63.5g switch is praised for its bouncy and elastic feedback sensation, giving users a lively and spring-like feel during typing sessions. The keys offer a creamy typing experience, with a smooth and buttery sensation that makes typing effortless. In contrast, the feel of the Gateron Type S switch remains unknown, as specific descriptors for its tactile feedback are not provided. However, given its weightier 65g bottom-out, users can expect a solid and firm keystroke when using the Type S.
Overall, both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron Type S switches cater to different tastes in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a clacky and bright typing experience with a bouncy and creamy feel, the Cloud - 63.5g may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you lean towards a more neutral and subdued sound profile with a weightier keystroke, the Gateron Type S could be the better option. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer quality performance and durability, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, consider the type of sound and feel you prefer in your keyboard. If you enjoy a clacky, high-pitched sound with a bouncy and creamy feel, the Cloud - 63.5g may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral, subdued sound with a weightier keystroke, the Gateron Type S could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and typing experience. Happy typing!
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