HMX Cloud - 50g vs. KTT Darling
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the KTT Darling switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between options that offer unique typing experiences. The HMX Cloud - 50g, known for its clacky sound profile, presents a lighter variant designed for those who relish a bright and lively typing experience. Its silky smooth feel enhances the tactile pleasure, making it an appealing choice for users who prioritize a swift keypress with an engaging auditory feedback. In contrast, the KTT Darling distinguishes itself with a chewy and substantial typing sensation, inviting users to feel as though their fingers are sinking into each keystroke. This switch not only offers pronounced bounciness—adding a delightful springiness to your typing—but also produces a resonant, high-pitched sound that enriches the overall experience. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Cloud - 50g favoring a light, fast-paced style and the Darling providing a deeper tactile and auditory engagement. 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
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 50g and the KTT Darling, a clear distinction can be observed in the top housing materials used in both switches. The Cloud - 50g is equipped with a nylon top housing, which provides a unique sound profile characterized by a deeper and fuller resonance. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a more rounded sound when typing. In contrast, the KTT Darling features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer composition that delivers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The translucency of polycarbonate not only influences the acoustic quality but also enhances aesthetic appeal, particularly for RGB lighting setups. As such, while both switches may cater to different auditory preferences, their distinct materials lead to markedly different typing experiences.
On the other hand, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes a common element to their overall sound profile. The nylon bottom in both the Cloud - 50g and the KTT Darling ensures that both switches elicit a similar deeper and fuller sound upon bottoming out, given that nylon is a classic material known for its sound-absorbing qualities. This means that while users will experience a variation in sound when pressing the switches due to the different top housing materials, the bottom housing in both switches ensures consistent sound characteristics when the keys hit the base. Therefore, if sound depth is a priority for a user, they can predictably expect a similar auditory experience from both models, thanks to their shared nylon bottom housing.
The interaction between the two distinct top housing materials and the shared nylon bottom housing leads to diverse yet complementary characteristics in each switch. With the different acoustic traits of nylon and polycarbonate, users will notice that the Cloud - 50g provides a muted and smooth keystroke, favoring a softer typing experience. Conversely, the KTT Darling, with its sharper sound profile, offers a more pronounced audio feedback with each press, ideal for users preferring crisper tactile feedback. Regardless of these differences in sound articulation, the nylon bottom in both switches ensures that the foundational audio experience remains consistent, allowing them to share a common auditory element while still catering to unique preferences through their top housing compositions.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the KTT Darling linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Cloud - 50g has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option. In contrast, the KTT Darling requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and has a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. This means that typists and gamers who prefer a more effortless experience might lean towards the Cloud switch for longer sessions, while those who appreciate a more substantial feel might opt for the Darling switch due to its heavier forces. Overall, if one prefers a lighter touch and ease of typing, the Cloud - 50g is the ideal choice, while the Darling provides a firmer response for those seeking more resistance in their typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the KTT Darling linear switch, the HMX Cloud features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the KTT Darling has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Cloud switch offers a longer travel distance, providing a deeper feeling with each keypress, which some users might prefer for a more tactile experience. On the other hand, the Darling switch's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers and users looking for quicker response times and more rapid key presses. Those who enjoy a more responsive and agile keystroke would likely gravitate towards the Darling switch, whereas those valuing a traditional, hearty key press would favor the longer travel of the Cloud - 50g. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding key depth and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cloud - 50g 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 - 50g for $2.99.
The KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
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 - 50g is characterized by its clacky profile, which provides a sharp and snappy auditory experience. This switch offers a crisp and bright sound that many enthusiasts find energizing during typing sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Darling delivers a high-pitched, resonant sound upon bottoming out. Its sound is not only engaging but also carries a certain richness that might appeal to those who appreciate a lively auditory feedback. Both switches share a tendency to produce higher-frequency sounds, making them similarly resonant, though the degree and character of the clack may differ slightly based on user preferences and setup.
In terms of feel, the Cloud - 50g is noted for its silky smoothness, allowing for a seamless and fluid typing experience. Users can expect a light touch that enables quick and effortless keystrokes. Conversely, the KTT Darling presents a more pronounced tactile sensation, with a chewy and substantial feel that evokes the experience of sinking one’s fingers into each key. This switch features a bouncy quality that adds a springy responsiveness, providing a lively feedback with each press. While both switches are linear, the key differences lie in the distinct tactile experiences they offer—the Cloud - 50g leaning towards smooth efficiency, while the Darling emphasizes a more engaging and substantial interaction.
In conclusion, both the HMX Cloud - 50g and the KTT Darling switches offer unique auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. While the Cloud - 50g emphasizes a crisp, clacky sound and a smooth feel, the Darling's higher-pitched, resonant sound and bouncy, chewy sensation provide a contrasting experience. Ultimately, your choice may come down to whether you prefer the smooth efficiency of the Cloud - 50g or the engaging depth of the Darling, but either way, you are bound to enjoy a satisfying typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Cloud - 50g and the KTT Darling linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences regarding typing experience and sound profile. If you favor a lighter switch that offers a bright and crisp typing experience, the Cloud - 50g could be the perfect match for you. Its 50g actuation force makes it comfortable for prolonged typing sessions, and its clacky sound adds an element of excitement. However, if you lean towards a more substantial feel with a satisfying bouncy response, the KTT Darling is likely to be your go-to switch. With a slightly heavier 53g actuation force, it provides a fuller tactile sensation and a resonant sound profile that can enhance your typing experience, making it feel engaging and lively. Therefore, consider your typing habits and sound preferences carefully to determine which switch best suits your needs; both options offer unique benefits tailored for different types of users.
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