HMX Cloud - 50g vs. TTC Flame Red
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the TTC Flame Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the world of mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often face the decision between various options that each offer unique characteristics tailored to specific preferences. The HMX Cloud - 50g switch stands out for its light touch and clacky sound profile, making it ideal for those who appreciate a bright and engaging typing experience, along with its silky smooth feel. This switch appeals to users who prefer a more responsive and lively sensation under their fingers. On the flip side, the TTC Flame Red switch not only boasts a weighty smoothness but also features a dazzling light diffuser that enhances the aesthetics of any backlit RGB keyboard. With a sound profile that balances clack and smoothness, the Flame Reds are perfect for users looking to combine visual appeal with a satisfying tactile experience. While both switches are linear and designed for fluid typing, they serve different audiences based on preference for sound and aesthetics. 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
54g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Housing materials
Both the HMX Cloud - 50g and the TTC Flame Red utilize nylon as the material for both their top and bottom switch housings, positioning them as comparable offerings in the world of mechanical switches. This shared material choice is significant because nylon is recognized for producing a distinctive sound profile, which is characterized by a deeper and fuller auditory experience during typing. The softer nature of nylon contributes to its sound-absorbing qualities, resulting in a more muted and rounded acoustic feedback when keys are pressed or released. Thus, users of both switches can anticipate a similar auditory engagement, leading to comparable typing experiences in terms of sound quality.
While the Cloud - 50g and the Flame Red both have nylon housings, it's essential to note that differences can emerge if other design aspects, such as switch mechanisms and stem profiles, come into play. For switches that have varying shapes or mechanisms, even when composed of the same housing material, the nuances in the typing experience could diverge. However, since both switches have uniform housing materials, it is likely that users will achieve a similarly satisfying typing feeling and bottom-out response. The characteristics of each housing affect not only the sound when bottoming out but also the tactile feedback felt during use, allowing for a consistent experience that remains anchored in the properties of nylon.
Ultimately, the consistency in housing materials between the HMX Cloud - 50g and the TTC Flame Red means that both switches are well-positioned to offer a satisfying experience for users seeking that classic mechanical feedback and sound quality. The similarities in their nylon housings will lead to a sound profile that emphasizes depth and fullness, regardless of any potential differences that may exist beyond the material itself. This shared foundation promises to deliver a robust typing experience, allowing enthusiasts to appreciate the benefits of nylon across both switch types while exploring any distinct functional features they may bring to their respective designs.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, we observe notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cloud - 50g features an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option, ideal for users who prefer extended typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Flame Red has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. This difference in force may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing. Consequently, users opting for the Cloud switch will find it easier to actuate with less effort, while the Flame Red switch provides a firmer, more deliberate tactile experience. Overall, the Cloud - 50g is the lighter switch, whereas the Flame Red is the heavier of the two.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, there is a subtle difference that may influence user preferences. The Cloud - 50g features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Flame Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Flame Red switch provides a deeper keystroke, which some users might find more satisfying, especially those who appreciate a hearty depth in their typing experience. Conversely, the Cloud - 50g's shorter 3.9 mm travel distance can offer a more responsive feel, making it appealing for gamers or those who prefer quicker key presses. Both switches approach the traditional 4 mm mark but cater to different preferences in typing experiences, with the Cloud - 50g being the shorter option and the Flame Red the longer one.
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 TTC Flame Red has an MSRP of $7.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flame Red for $4.38.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX Cloud - 50g switch is characterized by its clacky sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate auditory feedback while typing. This bright sound can be particularly appealing to enthusiasts who enjoy a lively typing experience. Conversely, the TTC Flame Red switch features a more neutral sound, striking a balance with a moderate actuation force that makes it versatile for both beginners and experienced users. While the Cloud - 50g delivers a more pronounced clack, the Flame Red offers a sound that can fit seamlessly into various settings, whether at home or in a professional environment.
When considering feel, the HMX Cloud - 50g switch offers a silky smooth typing experience, designed to deliver an effortless keypress with an enticing lightness. This smoothness contributes to a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, especially for extended periods. In contrast, the TTC Flame Red switch leans towards a weighty smoothness, presenting a more substantial typing sensation. The Flame Red is described as offering a mild and polished feel, positioning it in the middle ground for typists who might be looking for a balanced experience without any extreme feedback.
In conclusion, both the HMX Cloud - 50g and TTC Flame Red switches provide compelling characteristics, but they cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Cloud - 50g excels in delivering a bright clack along with a silky smooth action, while the Flame Red focuses on a more neutral sound and a weighty, polished feel. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize sound and effortlessness or a balance of audio response and tactile experience, ensuring that both switches can offer favorable outcomes depending on your typing style and environment.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and typing experience. If you are inclined toward a lighter switch that offers a silky smooth feel and a clacky sound, the Cloud - 50g is an excellent choice, especially if you appreciate a brighter typing experience. This switch is particularly well-suited for those who enjoy a more whimsical and energetic key press, making it ideal for gaming and casual typing sessions. In contrast, if you prefer a balanced, medium-light switch with a neutral sound and a versatile performance that caters to both work and leisure, the TTC Flame Red is likely a better match for you. Its polished feel and mild characteristics provide a gentle typing experience that can appeal to a wide range of users, particularly if you value aesthetics, as these switches excel with RGB lighting due to their visually striking light diffuser. Ultimately, consider what aspects matter most to you in your mechanical keyboard experience, whether it's sound, feel, or visual appeal, and select the switch that aligns with your needs.
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