HMX Cloud - 50g vs. Gateron Ink Yellow
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Gateron Ink Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular linear options are the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Gateron Ink Yellow, each offering a unique typing experience tailored to different preferences. The HMX Cloud - 50g is distinguished by its clacky sound profile and lighter actuation force, making it ideal for enthusiasts who relish a bright and engaging typing experience. This switch offers a silky smooth feel, catering to those looking for a particularly satisfying feedback with every keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Yellow features a shorter travel distance, appealing to users who desire a typing sensation that strikes a balance between the familiar feel of a laptop and the more pronounced feedback of a traditional mechanical keyboard. Its combination of pleasant smoothness and mild clackiness provides a versatile option for typists of varying tastes. While both switches bring their distinct character to the keyboard, understanding the specifics of each can help you determine which one aligns best with your personal typing style. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Gateron Ink Yellow switches, several key differences emerge that influence the overall performance and auditory feedback of each switch. The Cloud - 50g employs a nylon top and bottom housing, known for its softer nature, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This sound characteristic is attributed to nylon's ability to absorb sound, mitigating sharpness and producing a more rounded auditory experience. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Yellow features a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housing. This material yields a higher-pitched and clacky sound profile, signifying that the sounds emitted from the Ink Yellow switches will be sharper and more pronounced than those from the Cloud - 50g.
Despite their differing sound characteristics, both switches can still provide a satisfying typing experience depending on personal preferences. The nylon housing of the Cloud - 50g contributes to a distinct tactile sensation and holistic auditory experience, particularly during the bottoming out of a key press. Conversely, the INK blend of the Ink Yellow maintains a cohesive feel with its sharper sound while offering a different tactile response, emphasizing a more pronounced feedback during actuation. While each switch delivers unique auditory results, both can satisfy users looking for tactile feedback, albeit through different auditory avenues.
Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on what the user prioritizes in their typing experience. If one prefers a rounded sound with a softer touch, the HMX Cloud - 50g offers the traditional characteristics of nylon that promotes a dulled auditory experience. On the other hand, users leaning towards a more pronounced and lively sound might opt for the Gateron Ink Yellow, which emphasizes higher-pitched auditory feedback. Both housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile, ensuring that each switch offers a unique yet fulfilling typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Cloud - 50g has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an ideal choice for users who prefer a gentler key press, facilitating longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Ink Yellow features a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial and tactile typing experience. This means that while both switches can deliver a satisfying performance, the Cloud - 50g is better suited for users seeking comfort and ease of use, whereas the Ink Yellow is perfect for individuals who favor a more robust typing sensation. Overall, the HMX Cloud - 50g is the lighter option between the two switches, while the Gateron Ink Yellow is the heavier choice.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Cloud - 50g features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Ink Yellow has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference indicates that the Cloud - 50g may provide a more substantial key press feel, which some users might prefer for a more traditional, hearty depth in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow's shorter travel distance could appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times and more immediate feedback with each keystroke. Overall, if you value a deeper, more elongated feel in your switches, the Cloud - 50g would be the better option; conversely, for those who favor speed and responsiveness, the Ink Yellow is the preferable choice.
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 Gateron Ink Yellow has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Yellow for $7.35.
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 boasts a clacky sound profile, appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate a bright and pronounced auditory feedback during typing. It produces a crisp, lively sound that is both engaging and satisfying, particularly well-suited for those who enjoy a more dynamic typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch is characterized by a balanced sound, described as neutral yet still exhibiting some clackiness. This means users can expect a moderate auditory response that strikes a chord between being unobtrusive and noticeable. Thanks to this versatile sound profile, it caters well to a wide audience, whether in a professional setting or casual use at home, though ultimate sound quality will inevitably vary based on the keyboard board and keycap choice.
When considering feel, the HMX Cloud - 50g switch is noted for its silky smoothness, providing a delightful typing experience that emphasizes uninterrupted key travel. This smoothness enhances its clacky sound, creating a cohesive and enjoyable interaction with the keyboard. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch has a mild feel, offering a gentler typing experience that is approachable for both beginners and experienced typists alike. Complimenting this characteristic is its polished finish, which ensures smooth and refined key presses, reducing friction significantly. Users of both switches can look forward to a fluid typing experience, albeit with the Gateron Ink Yellow providing a more subdued and comfortable sensation.
Considering these attributes, both the HMX Cloud - 50g and Gateron Ink Yellow switches offer distinct but satisfying typing experiences. The Cloud - 50g’s engaging clackiness and silky smoothness cater to those who enjoy an energetic and responsive feel, while the Ink Yellow switch balances mildness with a polished smoothness, making it great for casual typing or extended use. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference regarding sound intensity and typing comfort, but either option promises quality performance on a mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, consider what matters most to you in your typing experience. If you prefer a lighter switch with a clacky sound profile that offers a bright and engaging feel, the Cloud - 50g is an excellent choice, especially for enthusiasts who enjoy that spirited typing experience. This switch’s 50g actuation force makes it ideal if you're looking for reduced fatigue during long typing sessions or if you're transitioning from a more conventional keyboard. On the other hand, if you seek a typing experience that balances a medium-heavy actuation force with a smoother overall feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow is worth considering. Its 67g bottom-out force can provide a reassuring weight under your fingers, while the polished feel and mild sound profile make it suitable for both home and office environments. Ultimately, choose the Cloud - 50g for a spirited and lightweight feel, or the Ink Yellow for a more solid and refined typing experience.
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