HMX Cloud - 50g vs. TTC Gold Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the TTC Gold Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cloud - 50g and TTC Gold Silver emerge as two intriguing linear options, each catering to distinct preferences among typists and gamers alike. The HMX Cloud - 50g is celebrated for its clacky sound profile and lighter actuation force, making it an attractive choice for enthusiasts seeking a bright, lively typing experience coupled with a silky smooth feel. Conversely, the TTC Gold Silver offers rapid responsiveness and a smooth travel path, culminating in a solid bottom-out that lends a satisfying tactile closure to every keystroke. Its harmonized sound signature and quick actuation make it perfect for those who prioritize speed and precision in their typing or gaming sessions. Both switches bring unique characteristics to the table, appealing to different user experiences and preferences. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 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
NPI
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 50g and the TTC Gold Silver switches showcase distinct acoustic properties that contribute to their overall typing experience. The Cloud - 50g features a nylon top housing, which, being a softer plastic, produces a deeper and rounder sound profile, emphasizing warmth and richness in the audio feedback. This quality is further heightened by the nylon bottom housing, which also promotes a fuller sound due to its sound-absorbing characteristics. In contrast, the TTC Gold Silver uses a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer nature that yields a sharper, crisper sound profile. This material choice allows for a more pronounced and resonant typing experience. Thus, while both switches utilize nylon in their bottom housings to garner similar sound properties, the variations in top housing materials result in divergent auditory profiles.
Although the nylon bottom housings of both switches yield comparable acoustic benefits, the difference in their top housings influences the overall sound experience when typing. The nylon top housing of the Cloud - 50g works harmoniously with its bottom housing, creating a cohesive sound that enhances the typing experience with a smooth and muted feedback. In contrast, the TTC Gold Silver, with its polycarbonate top housing, likely introduces a brighter sound signature, altering how the typing feedback resonates compared to the Cloud - 50g. Therefore, while both switches may solidify similar auditory qualities from their nylon bottom housing, the distinctive top housing materials ultimately result in unique sound profiles.
In terms of aesthetic appeal, the translucent nature of the TTC Gold Silver's polycarbonate housing is a significant factor, particularly for users who wish to integrate RGB lighting into their setups. This feature allows RGB effects to shine through vibrantly, enhancing the visual appeal of the switch. Meanwhile, the Cloud - 50g's nylon top housing, while effective in creating a fuller sound, does not offer the same level of translucency, leading to a more subdued lighting effect. Despite the differences in sound and aesthetic qualities, users looking for a balanced typist experience can find satisfaction in either switch, depending on their personal preference for sound profile and visual interaction.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, we see notable differences in actuation force, with the Cloud switch requiring only 42 grams to trigger a keystroke compared to the 45 grams needed for the Gold Silver switch. This makes the Cloud switch slightly lighter, appealing to users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, especially during extended gaming or work sessions. However, the TTC Gold Silver switch is designed with a higher actuation force, which may provide a more substantial feel for those who favor a heavier typing experience. Additionally, the bottom out force for the Cloud switch is measured at 50 grams, while the bottom out force for the Gold Silver switch is not specified. This lack of information makes it difficult to draw a direct comparison regarding the bottom out sensations between the two switches. Overall, the Cloud - 50g is lighter and may be preferable for users seeking comfort, whereas the Gold Silver's slightly heavier actuation could cater to those who enjoy a more solid keystroke feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, a notable distinction emerges. The HMX Cloud - 50g features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the TTC Gold Silver has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that with the Cloud - 50g, users experience a more substantial key press, which may appeal to those who prefer a deeper feel when typing or gaming. In contrast, the Gold Silver's shorter travel distance allows for quicker response times, catering to gamers who favor rapid keyactuation. Ultimately, selecting between these two switches depends on personal preference, as the Cloud - 50g provides a heartier depth, while the Gold Silver offers more immediate feedback with its shorter travel distance.
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 Gold Silver has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Silver for $2.90.
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
The sound profile of the HMX Cloud - 50g switch is characterized by its clacky nature, appealing to enthusiasts who prefer a brighter and more vibrant auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the TTC Gold Silver switch produces a thocky, low-pitched sound that delivers a rich and satisfying acoustic feedback, reminiscent of a deep thud. This creates a pronounced auditory experience, making each keystroke feel impactful. While personal preferences may steer users towards one sound over the other, the choice between these two switches ultimately comes down to individual taste—one favoring a more lively clack and the other a deeper, more muted thock.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cloud - 50g switch is known for its silky smooth action, providing a pleasant typing experience that minimizes resistance. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver leverages its polished and silky characteristics to ensure a seamless keypress, enhanced by a mild and subtle resistance. This results in an overall smoothness that makes typing feel effortless and refined, catering to those who favor a gentle typing experience. Both switches excel at delivering smooth key travel, but the HMX Cloud - 50g's emphasis on a silky feel contrasts with the Gold Silver's focus on both velocity and precision through its responsive nature.
In summary, the HMX Cloud - 50g and TTC Gold Silver linear switches offer distinct yet compelling auditory and tactile experiences. The Cloud - 50g's clacky sound appeals to those seeking brightness and liveliness, while the Gold Silver's resonant thocky feedback is ideal for users who prefer deeper, more solid acoustics. In terms of feel, both switches provide a smooth experience, though the Gold Silver leans towards responsiveness with its polished design. Ultimately, regardless of their differences, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, allowing newcomers to explore their preferences within the world of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To conclude, the decision between the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch largely boils down to your personal preferences and typing habits. If you favor a lighter touch and enjoy an engaging, clacky sound profile, the HMX Cloud - 50g is an excellent choice. Its smoothness and silky feel make it especially appealing for long typing sessions or for users who appreciate a more vibrant sound from their keyboard. However, if you prioritize rapid responsiveness and a robust typing experience, the TTC Gold Silver switch is likely to be more to your liking. With its polished and silky characteristics, combined with a decisive thocky sound, the Gold Silver provides a satisfying tactile feedback that caters well to gamers or anyone looking for precision in their keystrokes. In the end, both switches offer unique experiences, so consider your typing environment, whether it’s for work or play, and select the one that best aligns with your style and needs.
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