HMX Cloud - 50g vs. Gateron Ink Red

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two standout options are the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Gateron Ink Red, both of which are linear switches that cater to distinct typing preferences. The HMX Cloud - 50g is celebrated for its clacky sound profile and silky smooth feel, appealing particularly to enthusiasts who enjoy a brighter typing experience. This lighter variant provides a 50-gram actuation force, making it ideal for users who prefer a bit of feedback in their keystrokes. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Red offers a slightly lower actuation force, making it an excellent choice for those with a lighter typing style. Known for its crisp and smooth performance, the Ink Red also features a satisfyingly clacky sound profile, creating an enjoyable typing experience without the strain. While both switches have their unique attributes, they cater to different typing habits 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

HMX Cloud - 50g Linear

Gateron Ink Red Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Cloud - 50g and Gateron Ink Red switches exhibit distinct differences in their housing materials, which significantly influence their overall sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Cloud - 50g features a nylon top and bottom housing, a classic material recognized for its acoustic properties. Its softness lends to a deeper, fuller sound, absorbing sound waves and creating a duller, rounder auditory experience when typing. This makes the Cloud - 50g especially suited for users who prefer a more muted sound, which is often perceived as warm and cushioned.

In contrast, the Gateron Ink Red switches utilize a proprietary INK blend for both their top and bottom housings. This material's design is targeted towards producing a higher-pitched, slightly thinner sound profile, which has been described as clacky. Such sound characteristics arise because the INK blend is relatively harder compared to nylon; thus, the sharper sound quality resonates more vividly, providing a pronounced auditory feedback upon key presses. The clackiness associated with Ink Reds creates a lively typing experience that can be particularly appealing for those who enjoy a dynamic and energetic feedback during use.

Despite these differences, the overall performance in typing experiences might share similarities, primarily through the interaction of their respective housings. Each switch's bottom housing is more influential in determining the bottom-out sound and sensation, while the top housing contributes significantly to the key release sound. Therefore, even with contrasting materials, both the Cloud - 50g and Ink Red can cater to users' preferences for acoustic and tactile feedback, albeit in different sound profiles. Users who enjoy a deeper sound can find similar results with the softer nylon material of the Cloud - 50g, while those leaning towards a crisper and more pronounced auditory experience may gravitate towards the Gateron Ink Reds.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Cloud - 50g requires an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option that is likely to be more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Ink Red features a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium weight switch. This heavier feel may appeal to users who prefer more resistance and a substantial typing experience. Overall, those who appreciate a lighter switch would benefit from the Cloud - 50g, while those who prefer a bit more force in their keystrokes might opt for the Gateron Ink Red. As such, the difference in actuation and bottom out forces directly influences user preference based on their typing or gaming needs.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, we find that the Cloud switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Ink Red switch measures slightly longer at 4.0 mm. This means that the Ink Red switch offers a more traditional feel, appealing to users who prefer a deeper travel distance for a more pronounced tactile experience. Conversely, the shorter travel distance of the Cloud switch may cater to gamers looking for quicker response times, as it allows for a faster actuation. Therefore, those who prefer the more abrupt and responsive feel of a shorter travel may gravitate towards the Cloud switch, while enthusiasts for a fuller key press will likely favor the Gateron Ink Red due to its longer travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX Cloud - 50g switch offers a clacky sound profile, appealing to enthusiasts who prefer a bright and articulate auditory experience while typing. This lively acoustic feedback can make typing more engaging and enjoyable for those who love a pronounced sound. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Red switch presents a more nuanced sound landscape. It features a neutral tone, making it suitable for various environments, whether at home or in the office, while also incorporating a chirpy aspect that adds a bit of character to the typing experience. The different sound qualities of these switches mean that you'll encounter different auditory experiences, enhancing the overall charm of your typing setup.

The feel of the HMX Cloud - 50g switch is noted for its silky smoothness, offering a fluid typing experience that minimizes resistance as you press and release the keys. This makes it particularly enjoyable for extended typing sessions, as the smooth key travel reduces fatigue. The Gateron Ink Red switch, too, excels in the feel department with descriptors such as silky, mild, and polished. This means that the Ink Reds provide a similarly smooth experience while maintaining a gentle and approachable typing sensation, which is ideal for both beginners and experienced typists alike. Both switches promise a refined typing experience, though the terms used to describe them highlight subtleties that might appeal to different preferences.

In summary, both the HMX Cloud - 50g and Gateron Ink Red switches deliver distinct yet enjoyable sound and feel qualities. The Cloud - 50g is celebrated for its clacky sound and silky smoothness, which will resonate with those who prefer a brighter auditory feedback and a very smooth typing sensation. On the contrary, the Ink Red switch balances a neutral yet chirpy sound with an exceptionally smooth and polished feel, making it an excellent choice for typists looking for versatility and ease. Ultimately, while these switches cater to different listening and tactile preferences, both present a unique opportunity for enhancing your mechanical keyboard experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you prefer a lighter switch that offers a clacky sound profile and a uniquely bright typing experience, you will likely find the Cloud - 50g more satisfying. Its smooth feel and lighter actuation force make it ideal for those who enjoy a more responsive and energetic typing style, especially in quieter settings or during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, if you seek a slightly heavier switch with a neutral sound profile that still maintains a silky smooth feel, the Gateron Ink Red could be your best choice. Its medium actuation force suits a range of typing styles, making it an adaptable option for both beginners and experienced typists alike, whether at home or in an office. Ultimately, consider what matters most to you—whether it’s the weight of the switch, its sound characteristics, or the texture of the keypress—when deciding between these two great options.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Cloud - 50g Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Red Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more