HMX Cloud - 50g vs. KTT Glimp
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the KTT Glimp switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference plays a vital role, and two notable contenders in the linear switch category are the HMX Cloud - 50g and the KTT Glimp. The HMX Cloud - 50g is renowned for its clacky sound profile and silky smooth typing feel, making it an ideal choice for enthusiasts who savor a bright and lively typing experience without heavy actuation force. In contrast, the KTT Glimp strikes a harmonious balance with its medium-light actuation force and satisfying tactile feedback, catering to those who appreciate a responsive typing feel that isn’t overwhelming. The Glimp also boasts a fairly clacky sound profile, adding an enjoyable auditory dimension to your keystrokes. While both switches offer their unique advantages, from the light and breezy HMX Cloud - 50g to the balanced and substantial KTT Glimp, your choice will ultimately hinge on your desired typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
18mm spring
Housing materials
The HMX Cloud - 50g and the KTT Glimp feature distinct materials for their top housings, which significantly influences their sound profiles during use. The Cloud - 50g employs a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition. This softer material absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience, which could be preferred by users seeking a more muted typing sound. In contrast, the KTT Glimp utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer in nature. This leads to a sharper and more crisp sound profile when typing, as the rigidity of polycarbonate allows for clearer resonance. Thus, while both switches offer unique auditory experiences, they cater to different preferences based on the characteristics of their top housing materials.
Despite the differences in their top housings, the Cloud - 50g and the KTT Glimp share a commonality in their bottom housings, with both utilizing nylon. This similarity means that the bottom-out feel and sound of both switches will be characterized by the qualities inherent to nylon, such as a deeper and rounder sound profile. As a result, while users may experience a divergence in sound and tactile feedback when pressing individual keys, the nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent, fuller sound when the keys are fully pressed down. This shared material fosters a continuity in the bottom-out acoustics, aligning both switches more closely than the top housing differences might initially suggest.
In conclusion, the contrasting top housing materials significantly influence the auditory profiles of the HMX Cloud - 50g and KTT Glimp. Users of the Cloud - 50g can expect a subtler, warmer sound due to the nylon composition, while Glimp users enjoy a brighter, more precise auditory output afforded by polycarbonate. However, both switches benefit from the nylon bottom housing, which harmonizes their bottom-out feedback and sound. Consequently, while aesthetically and acoustically they showcase individual traits, the shared nylon component ensures a familiar experience at the point of key activation, thereby delivering synergy despite their distinct sounds.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch, it’s clear that they cater to slightly different preferences in typing feel. The Cloud - 50g features an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lightweight option that is ideal for users who favor prolonged typing sessions without excessive strain. In contrast, the KTT Glimp has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, positioning it as a medium-light option that still offers a relatively comfortable typing experience. The difference in actuation force is minimal, suggesting that users may experience similar responsiveness when typing, but the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Glimp provides a more substantial feel upon full key presses. Overall, the Cloud - 50g is the lighter option, while the Glimp, with its marginally higher weights, appeals to those who prefer a bit more resistance in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the KTT Glimp linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This distinction means that the Glimp switch provides a more pronounced keypress feel, which may appeal to users who prefer a deeper travel experience. In contrast, the Cloud - 50g switch offers a shorter travel distance, which can facilitate quicker response times and might be preferred by gamers looking for swift actions. Although the difference is minimal, with the Glimp being 0.1 mm longer, this small variation can impact user experience based on personal preferences for keypress sensations. Ultimately, those favoring faster response may lean towards the Cloud - 50g, while those seeking a more satisfying depth in their typing may opt for the KTT Glimp.
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 Glimp has an MSRP of $3.84 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glimp for $3.45.
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 sound profile of the HMX Cloud - 50g switch is characterized by its clacky quality, which produces a bright and vibrant auditory feedback during typing. This aligns well with those who appreciate a more pronounced and lively sound while they type. In comparison, the KTT Glimp switch also features a clacky sound profile, offering a similar crispy and percussive auditory element. However, the Glimp is described as having a neutral sound characteristic, making it versatile and suitable for various environments, whether at home or in a professional setting. Both switches can provide a fun and engaging audio experience, but the Glimp’s neutral aspect adds a layer of adaptability that the Cloud - 50g may not possess as clearly.
When considering the feel of these switches, the HMX Cloud - 50g is noted for its silky smoothness, providing a delightful tactile sensation as you type. This can create an enjoyable typing experience, particularly for those who favor a more fluid keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Glimp switch offers a creamy feel, which is characterized by a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels luxurious under the fingers. Additionally, the Glimp's mild response ensures that even novice typists can enjoy a comfortable experience without feeling overwhelmed by the switch's characteristics. Overall, while both switches deliver a pleasant typing experience, the Cloud - 50g focuses on silky smoothness, whereas the Glimp emphasizes a creamy sensation and a mild, approachable feel.
In conclusion, both the HMX Cloud - 50g and KTT Glimp linear switches offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. While the Cloud - 50g focuses on a bright auditory experience and silky smoothness, the Glimp provides a more adaptable, neutral sound profile paired with a creamy and mild feel. Ultimately, both switches can cater to enthusiasts and newcomers alike, allowing users to enjoy satisfying feedback and engaging experiences while typing. Depending on personal preferences, one may lean toward the clacky and smooth Cloud switch or the versatile and creamy Glimp switch, but either choice promises a rewarding experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the HMX Cloud - 50g and the KTT Glimp linear switches, consider your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile. If you prefer a lighter switch that offers a silky smooth typing experience and a bright clacky sound, the HMX Cloud - 50g is an excellent choice, especially if you enjoy the sensation of gliding your fingers over the keys with ease. This switch is ideal for enthusiastic typists who thrive on an airy, responsive feel. On the other hand, if you seek a more balanced experience with a slightly firmer bottom-out force and appreciate a satisfying tactile feedback, the KTT Glimp would be the better option. With its creamy smoothness and mildly clacky sound, the Glimp is great for those who value comfort and a more substantial typing experience without excessive resistance. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your individual typing style and the auditory experience you desire while using your mechanical keyboard.
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