HMX Cloud - 50g vs. TTC Flaming Pink
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the TTC Flaming Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the HMX Cloud - 50g and the TTC Flaming Pink, both of which fall into the linear switch category but offer distinct experiences. The HMX Cloud - 50g is renowned for its lighter actuation force, delivering a clacky sound profile that appeals to enthusiasts seeking that bright typing experience. This switch provides a silky smooth feel, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a tactile sensation while typing. On the other hand, the TTC Flaming Pink offers a smooth, responsive action coupled with a satisfying bottom-out sound, ideal for users looking for a premium typing experience that balances both gaming and everyday tasks. While the Flaming Pink's sound profile is bright, it remains controlled and not overly loud, catering to users who prefer a quieter environment. Ultimately, while both switches cater to different preferences, 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
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
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
24mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX Cloud - 50g and the TTC Flaming Pink switches present a fascinating study in the effects of housing materials on sound profiles and tactile feedback. Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience, characterized by sound absorption and a rounded auditory response. This brings a sense of warmth and richness to keystrokes, making the typing experience pleasant and immersive. Meanwhile, the Cloud - 50g's top housing is constructed from nylon, providing a consistent sound profile across both layers of the switch. This uniformity emphasizes the deeper acoustic qualities, creating a cohesive auditory environment that enhances the overall typing experience.
In contrast, the TTC Flaming Pink features a polycarbonate top housing, which offers distinct auditory and aesthetic differences compared to the Cloud - 50g. The use of polycarbonate leads to a sharper, higher-pitched sound when typing, owing to its stiffer composition. This material’s transparency also allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects, making it visually appealing to those who value aesthetics in their keyboard setups. The crisper sound produced by the Flaming Pink's top housing, coupled with the nylon bottom housing, creates an interesting blend that balances the deeper tones of nylon with the brighter characteristics of polycarbonate, resulting in a unique acoustic experience.
Despite the differences in the top housings, both switches leverage similar qualities from their nylon bottom housings, promoting a deeper sound profile that is characteristic of this material. As a result, users can achieve a comparably enriched typing experience when using either switch. The tonal interplay created by the combination of these materials illustrates how slight variations in switch construction can lead to compelling auditory differences, while the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent and satisfying bottom-out feel. Hence, while the Cloud - 50g and TTC Flaming Pink switches may diverge in some aspects, they can still deliver comparable results, thanks to their nylon components.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch with the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch, both exhibit a similar light feel but differ slightly in their actuation forces. The Cloud - 50g has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Flaming Pink boasts a slightly heavier actuation force of 43 grams, although both switches share the same bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that typists who prefer lighter switches for extended periods, such as during long work hours or gaming sessions, may find the Cloud - 50g just a touch more accommodating. In contrast, the Flaming Pink's marginally higher actuation force could appeal to those seeking a more substantial typing experience. Overall, while both switches are light and easy to press, the Cloud - 50g is the lighter option due to its lower actuation force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch, it is clear that they differ slightly. The HMX Cloud - 50g features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the TTC Flaming Pink has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that, for users seeking a more responsive experience, the Flaming Pink may offer quicker actuation owing to its shorter travel distance. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial feel and prefer a deeper actuation are likely to favor the HMX Cloud - 50g with its longer travel distance. Thus, the choice between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference regarding key press depth and responsiveness in gaming or typing scenarios.
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 Flaming Pink has an MSRP of $4.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Pink for $4.00.
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, designed to deliver a bright auditory experience. This makes it particularly appealing for those who enjoy a more pronounced, resonant sound while typing. In contrast, the TTC Flaming Pink switch offers a bright sound profile that is not overly loud, providing a more balanced auditory experience that is both satisfying and less intrusive. While both switches deliver a pleasant sound, the Cloud - 50g leans towards a more pronounced clack, whereas the Flaming Pink emphasizes clarity without overwhelming noise.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cloud - 50g switch is known for its silky smoothness, promoting a seamless typing experience that many enthusiasts will appreciate. This smoothness ensures that each keystroke feels fluid, contributing to an enjoyable typing rhythm. The TTC Flaming Pink, on the other hand, is noted for its smooth and responsive feel, making it equally appealing for both gaming and daily use. This responsiveness allows for quick and precise actions, highlighting its versatility while still providing an enjoyable tactile experience similar to the Cloud - 50g.
In conclusion, both the HMX Cloud - 50g and TTC Flaming Pink switches offer distinct yet complementary experiences in sound and feel. Those who prefer a more pronounced, clacky sound will lean towards the Cloud - 50g, while those seeking a brighter yet more subdued sound may opt for the Flaming Pink. Despite their differences, both switches provide silky smoothness, ensuring a pleasurable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences regarding sound and the specific context in which they will be used.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Cloud - 50g and TTC Flaming Pink linear switches ultimately depends on your specific preferences in terms of sound and feel. If you favor a bright and clacky sound profile paired with a silky smooth actuation, the HMX Cloud - 50g is likely the better fit for you, especially if you enjoy the auditory feedback that enhances your typing experience. It's particularly suited for those who relish a lively and engaging environment while typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a premium typing experience with smooth and responsive feedback without being overly loud, the TTC Flaming Pink may be your go-to. Its more subdued sound profile, while still satisfying, makes it ideal for environments where noise could be an issue, yet it remains perfect for both casual and competitive gaming scenarios. Ultimately, assess your priorities—whether you lean towards a crisp auditory experience with the Cloud or a refined feel with the Flaming Pink—to find the switch that suits you best.
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