HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch often boils down to personal preference and typing experience. The HMX Cloud, known for its clacky sound profile and smoother feel, provides a satisfying auditory experience that many enthusiasts adore; its heavier actuation force of 63.5g adds a sense of sturdiness and precision for those who enjoy a bright, engaging typing atmosphere. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB offers a refined auditory experience with its deep "thock" sound and a prominent tactile bump, delivering a more subdued acoustic profile that is both luxurious and gentle on the ears—ideal for those who prefer a quieter workspace while still valuing tactile feedback. Both switches present unique advantages: the Cloud for its lively and bouncy characteristics, and the U4Tx for its stealth and sophistication. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Cloud - 63.5g Linear

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB, we observe notable similarities and differences that influence their audio and tactile performances. Both switches utilize a nylon top housing for the Cloud - 63.5g and a proprietary Gazzew blend for the U4Tx RGB. The nylon in the Cloud - 63.5g is notable for its ability to absorb sound due to its softer nature, producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Similarly, the Gazzew blend, sometimes referred to as "boba plastic," also contributes to a rich sound experience. While the compositions are different, both materials prioritize sound dampening and richness, suggesting that users of either switch can expect a pleasant auditory experience, albeit with slightly varied qualities.

Examining the bottom housings, we again see a common thread in their properties — both the Cloud - 63.5g and U4Tx RGB feature soft plastics. The nylon composite in the Cloud - 63.5g ensures that the bottom housing maintains a consistent, deep sound profile as well. On the other hand, the U4Tx RGB’s proprietary blend aims to provide similar characteristics. This similarity leads to a distinctive bottom-out feel for both switches. The softness of both housing materials allows them to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a muted and rounded bottom-out sound. In this regard, users can expect a satisfying typing experience across both models, though the specific tactile feedback may differ due to the inherent variations in their materials.

In summary, while the top and bottom housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and Gazzew U4Tx RGB differ in their compositions, their similar focus on softness results in comparable sound profiles. Both switches emphasize a deeper tone when pressed down, with the potential for slightly different auditory experiences when releasing the key due to their unique top housing materials. Ultimately, potential users seeking a balanced sound profile and soft typing sensation will likely find satisfaction in either option, despite the minute differences attributed to their specific manufacturing materials. Such distinctions might cater to individual preferences but don’t detract from the overall quality and performance deliverable by either switch.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, we find that the actuation force of the Cloud switch is specified at 56 grams, while the actuation force for the U4Tx RGB is unknown. However, both switches have similar bottom out forces, with the Cloud switch registering at 63.5 grams and the U4Tx RGB slightly heavier at 65 grams. This means that users of the Cloud switch will experience a slightly lighter actuation, potentially allowing for more comfortable extended typing or gaming sessions, while the U4Tx RGB, being heavier at bottom out, may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial tactile feedback. Overall, while the Cloud - 63.5g is the lighter option when it comes to actuation force, both switches maintain medium-heavy characteristics in their bottom out forces, catering to different preferences among users.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, there is a clear distinction: the Cloud switch has a longer travel distance of 3.9 mm, whereas the U4Tx RGB offers a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference of 0.3 mm could influence user experience significantly; those who favor a more responsive feel may prefer the U4Tx RGB, which allows for quicker actuation, making it ideal for gamers who prioritize speed. Conversely, users who appreciate a more satisfying key press with greater depth might lean towards the Cloud switch for its deeper travel. In essence, choosing between these two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding responsiveness and typing feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch offers a notably clacky and high-pitched auditory profile that produces a sharp, bright, and percussive sound with each keystroke. This makes it an excellent choice for typists who appreciate a lively auditory feedback as they type. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switch is characterized by a deep "thock" when bottoming out, providing a more subdued yet refined sound experience. It maintains a quiet top-out that contrasts with its bottoming action, resulting in a sound profile that’s rich while remaining stealthy. While both switches deliver enjoyable sound experiences, the HMX Cloud's sharpness and clarity contrast with the U4Tx's deeper resonance, catering to different preferences in sound.

In terms of feel, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch excels with its bouncy and creamy characteristics. The combination provides a spring-like feedback sensation that gives the typist a lively experience, while its silky smooth action allows for effortless gliding across the keys. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switch, while featuring a tactile bump and an undefined feel, is designed to provide a luxurious typing experience, likely offering a unique combination of feedback that balances the tactile sensation with an overall smoothness. Ultimately, while the HMX Cloud delivers a distinctly elastic and creamy touch, the specifics of the U4Tx’s feel remain unknown, leaving room for exploration.

In conclusion, both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences. The HMX Cloud switch stands out with its clacky and high-pitched sound along with its bouncy, creamy feel, making it suitable for those who enjoy a more vibrant typing experience. Meanwhile, the U4Tx RGB combines a deep auditory richness with a tactile response, appealing to those who prefer a luxurious yet quieter experience. Whether one prefers the lively sharpness of the Cloud or the refined subtleness of the U4Tx, both switches promise to enhance the overall enjoyment of mechanical typing.

Conclusion

To sum up, your choice between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch should ultimately hinge on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and the overall typing experience you seek. If you crave a lively, bright typing experience characterized by a clacky sound and smooth, bouncy feedback, then the HMX Cloud switch may be your ideal choice. Its medium-heavy actuation force of 63.5 grams provides a satisfying and engaging response that can enhance your typing rhythm, particularly if you enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a more refined tactile experience with a unique sound profile that mixes a deep "thock" with quieter actions, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB is likely more suited to your needs. With a slightly heavier bottom-out force of 65 grams, it offers a sharp tactile bump combined with a luxurious feel, perfect for those who appreciate both silence and methodical feedback in their keystrokes. Consider your typing habits, the environments in which you’ll be using your keyboard, and the sensory experiences you favor when making your final decision.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Cloud - 63.5g Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more