HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gazzew U4T stand out as unique options to consider. The Cloud - 63.5g is a linear switch, known for its clacky sound profile and silky smooth feel, making it appealing to enthusiasts who enjoy a bright typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T is a tactile switch that offers a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility, providing auditory and tactile satisfaction with each keystroke. While the Cloud - 63.5g is bouncy, clacky, and creamy with a high-pitched sound profile, the U4T is described as bassy, thocky, and sharp. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. 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
65g
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
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 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gazzew U4T both prioritize providing a deep and rich sound profile during typing, with the use of softer plastics like nylon and the proprietary Gazzew blend. The nylon top housing of the Cloud - 63.5g creates a duller and rounder sound due to its sound absorption properties, while the U4T's boba plastic blend delivers a similar deep sound profile. However, their specific compositions and manufacturing processes may result in slight differences in sound and feel.
In terms of their bottom housings, both the Cloud - 63.5g's nylon and the U4T's Gazzew blend contribute to the overall typing experience by emphasizing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of these plastics ensures that the sound of bottom-out keystrokes is rich and satisfying. While both housings aim to provide a similar typing experience, the proprietary nature of the Gazzew blend in the U4T may offer a unique feel that sets it apart from the more traditional nylon material used in the Cloud - 63.5g.
The division of qualities between the top and bottom housings of a switch highlights the importance of each component in shaping the overall sound and feel of the typing experience. While the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. Both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gazzew U4T leverage their respective housing materials to create a distinct typing experience that prioritizes depth and richness in sound, catering to typists who appreciate tactile feedback and a satisfying typing sound.
Weight
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has an actuation force of 56 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, also placing it in the medium-heavy category. When it comes to weight, the Cloud - 63.5g is slightly lighter in terms of actuation force, while the U4T is heavier in terms of bottom out force. This means that the Cloud - 63.5g may provide a more comfortable typing experience for extended periods of time, whereas the U4T may offer a more substantial and tactile feel for those who prefer a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9mm, while the Gazzew U4T tactile switch has a travel distance of 4mm. The Cloud - 63.5g offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the U4T. A 0.1mm may seem insignificant, but it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Cloud - 63.5g due to its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the U4T with its slightly longer travel distance. Both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, so users can expect similar results regardless of which one they choose. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to 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 U4T 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, delivering a sharp and percussive sound during key presses. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T switch offers a bassy and thocky sound, providing a deeper and richer audio experience with a satisfying thud-like sound. While the Cloud - 63.5g is more on the bright and crisp side, the U4T offers a more robust and deep sound quality, catering to different preferences in auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the Cloud - 63.5g switch offers a bouncy and creamy typing experience, providing a spring-like feedback and a smooth, buttery sensation with every key press. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T switch is described as sharp, delivering a strong and crisp tactile bump that is distinctly felt with each keystroke. The U4T switch focuses more on providing intense tactile feedback compared to the smoother and more elastic feel of the Cloud - 63.5g switch.
In conclusion, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch is ideal for those who enjoy a bright and clacky sound profile combined with a bouncy and creamy typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T switch appeals to users who prefer a bassy and thocky sound with a sharp and intense tactile feedback. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience. Whether you choose the Cloud - 63.5g or the U4T, you can expect top-notch performance and satisfaction in your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a bright and clacky typing experience with a smooth feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and bassier thock sound with a sharp tactile feedback, then the Gazzew U4T tactile switch is the way to go. Ultimately, it all comes down to your personal preference in sound and feel, so choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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