HMX Cloud - 50g vs. HMX Gravel
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the HMX Gravel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Cloud - 50g and the HMX Gravel both offer unique characteristics tailored to different preferences even though they share the same linear design. The HMX Cloud - 50g is celebrated for its clacky sound profile and lighter actuation force, making it ideal for typing enthusiasts who crave a bright, energetic feel with every keystroke. It provides a silky smooth experience that adds an enjoyable auditory element to the typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Gravel stands out with its exceptionally smooth and refined typing feel, leaning towards a medium-light actuation force that promises a responsive and gentle experience without sacrificing performance. Both switches cater to users looking for a linear option, but with distinct auditory and tactile properties. 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
50g
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Cloud - 50g and HMX Gravel differ significantly in their top housing materials, which in turn affects the sound profiles and tactile experiences they deliver. The Cloud - 50g features a nylon top housing, renowned for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a more muted audio experience that many users find satisfying and cushioned. On the contrary, the Gravel's top housing is made from polycarbonate, known for its rigidity and translucency. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, which is particularly appealing to those who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback. Thus, the stark contrast between nylon and polycarbonate in these two switches manifests directly in the aural experience during use.
When examining the bottom housing, both the HMX Cloud - 50g and HMX Gravel employ nylon, creating a consistent element between the two models. The nylon bottom housing distinctly amplifies the deeper sound profile, adhering to the property's nature of absorbing sound and enhancing the tactile sensation upon key engagement. Because both models utilize nylon in this component, users will experience a similar dampening effect on the audible click or thock when bottoming out on the keys. This shared material grounds both switches in a familiar auditory realm, softening the overall sound despite the contrasting top materials.
Ultimately, the interplay of materials in each switch leads to unique sensory experiences. The Cloud - 50g's combination of nylon top and nylon bottom housing fosters a cohesive sound profile that emphasizes depth and warmth, while the Gravel's polycarbonate top introduces clarity and sharpness, albeit with a similarly dampened bottom end thanks to the nylon base. Each switch’s performance is therefore a nuanced balance of the softer bottom housing’s deeper sound absorption and the top housing’s defining acoustic characteristics. Users can expect an engaging typing experience from both models, each catering to distinct preferences while sharing some sonic qualities in their construction.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch to the HMX Gravel linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces while their bottom out forces remain the same. The Cloud - 50g features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, making it ideal for long typing sessions or gaming, where less effort is preferred. In contrast, the Gravel's actuation force is slightly heavier at 45 grams, providing a more substantial push that some may find more satisfying. However, both switches share an identical bottom out force of 50 grams, which means users will experience the same resistance when pressing the key all the way down. Ultimately, if a lighter feel is desired for extended use, the Cloud - 50g is the better option, while those who appreciate a firmer typing experience may lean towards the Gravel.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch differ, with the Cloud - 50g measuring 3.9 mm and the Gravel at 3.5 mm. This means that the Gravel has a shorter travel distance, making it potentially more responsive for tasks requiring quick keystrokes, such as gaming. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Cloud - 50g may provide a more substantial feel, which some users prefer for a deeper typing experience. Thus, if you prioritize swift response times, the Gravel is the better choice, while those who appreciate a more pronounced actuation may opt for the Cloud - 50g. Overall, the two switches cater to different preferences, emphasizing either responsiveness or a hearty depth in keypresses.
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 HMX Gravel has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gravel for $2.99.
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 HMX Cloud - 50g switch emits a distinctly clacky sound profile that enhances the auditory experience while typing, appealing to enthusiasts who relish a lively and bright sound. This characteristic provides a satisfying auditory feedback that engages the typist, making every keystroke feel more pronounced. In contrast, the sound profile of the HMX Gravel switch is not specified, leaving room for uncertainty regarding its auditory signature. However, it's important to note that both sound experiences can be influenced by additional factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used, so users could achieve similar auditory results with careful customization.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the HMX Cloud - 50g is celebrated for its silky smoothness, providing an exceptionally fluid typing experience that makes each keystroke effortless and enjoyable. This smoothness contributes to a rapid typing experience, particularly for those who enjoy a light touch. Similarly, the HMX Gravel switch also offers a smooth typing feel but emphasizes a medium-light actuation force, leaning slightly towards the lighter side. This ensures a responsive, effortless typing experience that many enthusiasts appreciate. Both switches prioritize a delightful tactile experience, making them ideal for prolonged typing sessions.
In conclusion, while the HMX Cloud - 50g boasts a clacky sound profile and a silky smooth feel, the HMX Gravel focuses on exceptional smoothness with a medium-light touch for a refined experience. Though the auditory qualities of the Gravel remain unclear, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying feel under the fingers, making each an excellent choice for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Users can enjoy a bright and lively auditory experience with the Cloud, while the Gravel is poised to deliver an effortlessly smooth typing experience, ensuring that both options cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To wrap up, choosing between the HMX Cloud - 50g and the HMX Gravel linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel. If you find joy in a more vibrant and clacky sound profile while typing, the Cloud - 50g is the go-to option for you. Its lighter bottom-out force combined with its silky smooth feel makes it a fantastic choice for those who prefer a bright, engaging typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize smoothness and a refined typing sensation, the Gravel switch might be more appealing. Both switches feature a 50g bottom out force, but the Gravel's medium-light actuation offers a responsive feel that caters to a smooth and effortless typing experience. Thus, if you are seeking a switch that balances comfort and acoustic enjoyment, the Cloud - 50g will serve you well. Conversely, if your typing style leans toward a consistently smooth and refined interaction, the Gravel would be your best bet. Ultimately, your choice should reflect what aspects of the typing experience you value most.
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