HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° both offer unique features and benefits for different types of users. The Cloud - 63.5g, a linear switch, is characterized by its clacky sound profile and heavier actuation force of 63.5g, making it ideal for enthusiasts who enjoy a bright typing experience with a silky smooth feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is known for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, providing unmatched smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise for silent typing. While both switches have their strengths and appeal to different preferences, it is important to delve deeper into the specifics to determine which switch best suits your typing needs. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, we see a clear distinction between nylon and polycarbonate. The Cloud - 63.5g utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile because of its stiffer plastic composition. Despite both switches using nylon for the bottom housing, the overall sound and feel may vary due to the differences in their top housings.
While both the Cloud - 63.5g and the Zero Degree 0° share similarities in using nylon for the bottom housing, they diverge in their choice of top housing material. This contrast leads to distinct sound profiles, with the Cloud offering a duller and rounder sound due to nylon, and the Zero Degree delivering a clear and resonant sound thanks to polycarbonate. Additionally, the aesthetics of the switches differ, with the Zero Degree being more visually appealing with its translucent polycarbonate top housing that enhances RGB lighting effects. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound and design.
The division of housing materials between the top and bottom components of a switch impacts the overall typing experience. The qualities brought by nylon or polycarbonate will be discernible in the sound and feel of the switch when pressing a key and releasing it. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Understanding the impact of these housing materials on the typing experience can help users choose a switch that aligns with their preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that the Cloud - 63.5g switch is heavier than the Zero Degree 0° switch. The Cloud - 63.5g has an actuation force of 56 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and an unknown bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Zero Degree 0° switch would be the better option, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Cloud - 63.5g switch with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Zero Degree 0° has a shorter travel distance compared to the Cloud - 63.5g. The shorter travel distance of the Zero Degree 0° switch may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while those looking for a more substantial keystroke may prefer the longer travel distance of the Cloud - 63.5g switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch is known for its clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, making it ideal for those who enjoy a bright typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch introduces a unique design that absorbs sound and reduces noise, delivering a silent typing experience with unparalleled smoothness and stability. While the Cloud - 63.5g has a high-pitched and crisp sound, the Zero Degree 0° offers a quieter typing experience due to its innovative structure.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Cloud - 63.5g is known for its bouncy and creamy sensation, providing a spring-like feedback and a smooth, buttery typing experience. On the other hand, the feel of the Zero Degree 0° switch is not provided, but its self-padding design and dual-rail structure suggest a soft, elastic feel that contributes to its overall smoothness and stability. Both switches promise a comfortable typing experience, with the Cloud - 63.5g offering a lively and bouncy feel, while the Zero Degree 0° focuses on a quiet and soft typing sensation.
Overall, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. The Cloud - 63.5g excels in providing a bright and clacky typing experience with a bouncy and creamy feel, while the Zero Degree 0° prioritizes silence and smoothness, potentially offering a soft and elastic typing sensation. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either of these switches will provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that you get similar results in terms of quality and performance.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you enjoy a bright and clacky typing experience with a medium-heavy key press, the Cloud - 63.5g would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, silent, and stable typing experience with a unique self-padding design, the Zero Degree 0° could be the ideal switch for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize sound and tactile feedback or smoothness and noise reduction in your mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
