HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch stand out as popular options. The Cloud - 63.5g is renowned for its clacky sound profile and heavier weight, providing enthusiasts with a bright typing experience and smooth feel. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 offers a silent tactile experience with a sharp and exhilarating bump, as well as a plush bottom-out sensation. While the Cloud - 63.5g is known for its bouncy and high-pitched qualities, the U4 is characterized by its muted and low-pitched sound profile. Each switch caters to different preferences, with the Cloud - 63.5g appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience, and the Gazzew U4 catering to those who prefer a quieter, more tactile 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
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gazzew U4 both offer a deep and rich sound profile due to their softness. The nylon top housing of the Cloud provides a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, known as "boba plastic," also delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. In this aspect, both housing materials produce similar results in terms of sound quality.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the differences between the two materials become more apparent. The nylon bottom housing of the Cloud contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its top housing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a unique sound experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4 also delivers a rich and deep sound profile, but with its own proprietary qualities that make it stand out from traditional nylon material.
In terms of feel and sound, the bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing material are felt when pressing down on a key, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. As such, the differences between the nylon and Gazzew blend bottom housings of the Cloud and U4 respectively will influence how these switches feel during use. On the other hand, the top housing material will have more impact on the sound produced when releasing a key, providing a unique auditory experience based on the material used. Ultimately, while both switches offer similar deep and rich sound profiles, the choice between nylon and the Gazzew blend will depend on personal preference for feel and sound characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it is evident that the U4 is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams compared to the 56 grams of the Cloud. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the U4 at 62 grams and the Cloud at 63.5 grams. This means that while the U4 may feel lighter to press initially, both switches will require a similar amount of force when fully pressed down. The Cloud provides a slightly heavier actuation force, which may appeal to those looking for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, which falls in between the traditional and shorter travel distances. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches offer a responsive typing experience, with the Cloud - 63.5g being slightly longer in travel distance compared to the U4. Gamers may prefer the Cloud - 63.5g for its slightly longer travel distance, allowing for more control and precision, while those looking for a quicker response time may lean towards the U4 with its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50 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 clacky and high-pitched profile, offering a sharp and bright typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch provides a muted and low-pitched sound, resulting in a whisper-quiet typing experience. If you prefer a more crisp and percussive sound, the Cloud - 63.5g would be the way to go, while the U4 would be ideal for those looking for a quieter typing environment.
Moving on to feel, the Cloud - 63.5g switch offers a bouncy and creamy typing experience, with a lively and elastic feedback sensation. The keys feel smooth and buttery, allowing for effortless keystrokes. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 switch provides a sharp and intense tactile bump, giving users a distinct and prominent feedback with each keypress. If you enjoy a more spring-like and rebounding feel, the Cloud - 63.5g switch would be a great choice, while the U4 switch caters to those seeking a strong tactile bump.
In conclusion, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch excels in providing a clacky and bouncy typing experience with a bright and high-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offers a whisper-quiet typing experience with a plush bottom-out sensation and a sharp tactile bump. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on whether you prioritize a louder, brighter typing experience with the Cloud - 63.5g or a quieter, tactile-focused experience with the Gazzew U4.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a bright and clacky typing experience 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 a silent tactile switch with a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, along with a plush bottom-out sensation, the Gazzew U4 would be the better option. Consider your sound and feel preferences carefully before making your decision, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gazzew U4 will depend on what type of typing experience you value most.
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