HMX Cloud - 50g vs. TTC Iron
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the TTC Iron switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cloud - 50g and the TTC Iron are both exceptional linear options that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The HMX Cloud - 50g is favored for its remarkably clacky sound profile, offering a bright and engaging typing experience, while its lighter actuation makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer a less strenuous keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Iron switch stands out for its unique blend of smooth travel and pronounced clacky feedback, providing an aural satisfaction that many typists enjoy. This switch is designed to ensure quick actuation, contributing to fatigue-free typing, making it a great choice for both enthusiasts and everyday users alike. Although both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, they do have their distinct characteristics that may sway your decision. 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
41g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the HMX Cloud - 50g and the TTC Iron vary significantly, with each type contributing uniquely to the overall sound and feel of the switches. The Cloud - 50g features a nylon top and bottom housing, which is known for its classic qualities. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile that is described as duller and rounder. This acoustic absorption contributes to a typing experience that is both pleasant and rich, making it ideal for users who appreciate a solid tactile feedback along with a more muted auditory response during use.
In contrast, the TTC Iron sports a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top and bottom housing. POM is recognized for its resilience and performance-oriented characteristics, producing a sound that is unique and muted but nonetheless deep, akin to a polished acoustic quality. While both materials may yield a similarly muted sound profile, the tonal nuances differ slightly due to their respective chemical compositions and physical properties. The hardness of POM compared to nylon results in a sharper click during typing, although it still maintains a generally pleasing sound profile. Thus, even though the Iron’s sound is also deeper, it is nuanced by the hardness of POM, offering an experience that contrasts with the softer touch of nylon.
Moreover, if one were to analyze the overall impact of these housing materials on the typing experience, it's clear that while the Cloud - 50g's nylon provides a more cohesive and plush auditory experience, the TTC Iron's POM ensures a quality that is distinct yet resonant. In scenarios where the top and bottom housings of these switches differ, the characteristics brought by each material would influence the perceived quality of the switch. With the Cloud - 50g, users can expect a unified experience dominated by nylon’s sound profile, resulting in a rounded bottom-out sound. In comparison, the Iron allows each housing to shine independently, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and the top housing influencing the sound during release, which may render both switches advantageous depending on user preference.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch with the TTC Iron linear switch, we observe that both switches feature impressively light actuation forces, with the Cloud - 50g requiring 42 grams to register a keystroke and the Iron needing slightly less at 41 grams. This minimal difference means users of either switch can expect similar typing experiences, particularly for prolonged use, as both are designed with lighter force preferences in mind. However, when it comes to bottom out forces, both switches have identical specifications, standing at 50 grams. This consistency in bottom out force provides a uniform typing feel, allowing users to effectively gauge the overall key press experience. In summary, while the Cloud - 50g is marginally heavier in actuation force, they both deliver light feedback suitable for users who prioritize comfort during extended sessions, thus catering to typists and gamers alike looking for a balance between responsiveness and fatigue reduction.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, slightly longer than the TTC Iron linear switch, which measures 3.8 mm. Although the difference is minimal, this distinction may influence user experience. Gamers, who often favor quicker response times, might lean towards the TTC Iron for its shorter travel distance, which provides enhanced responsiveness. Conversely, the HMX Cloud switch's longer travel distance may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, offering a sense of depth that can enhance typing comfort. Ultimately, while both switches are designed for different preferences, the Cloud - 50g offers a slightly deeper travel experience compared to the TTC Iron.
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 Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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
When it comes to sound, both the HMX Cloud - 50g and the TTC Iron linear switch equip users with a distinct auditory experience, although the specifics differ slightly. The Cloud - 50g boasts a clacky sound profile, delivering a bright and sharp acoustics reminiscent of more traditional clicky switches, making each keystroke enjoyable and engaging for those who appreciate a lively typing atmosphere. In contrast, the TTC Iron linear switch also features a pronounced clacky sound, noted for its crisp and bright characteristics that provide an added layer of satisfaction with every press. While both switches have a clacky quality, they may exhibit unique tonal variations influenced by the build of the keyboard and keycaps used, thereby creating an auditory experience that caters to similar preferences while allowing for individual nuance.
Regarding the tactile feel, the HMX Cloud - 50g switch is characterized by its silky smoothness, ensuring a seamless typing experience that many enthusiasts seek. On the other hand, the TTC Iron is celebrated for its effortless key activation due to its light actuation force, providing a gentle resistance that makes each press feel delicate yet responsive. This switch also claims a mild feel, presenting a typing experience that is easy on the fingers during prolonged sessions. Both the Cloud - 50g and TTC Iron switches excel in smoothness and light actuation, promoting comfort and reducing fatigue, making them suitable for users who prioritize ease and fluidity in their typing.
In summary, both the HMX Cloud - 50g and TTC Iron linear switches offer delightful auditory and tactile qualities that cater to the preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While they differ somewhat in sound specifics, both promise a clacky sound that enhances the typing experience. In terms of feel, they are designed to provide a smooth and light typing touch that minimizes finger strain. Thus, users can expect enjoyable results from either switch, as both deliver a comparable combination of sound and feel that appeals to those seeking comfort and satisfaction in their keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the TTC Iron linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you tend to enjoy a more vibrant and clacky sound profile as you type, along with a silky smooth feel that enhances your typing experience, the HMX Cloud - 50g might be the better option for you. It caters particularly well to enthusiasts who appreciate a vivid auditory feedback during their typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that combines a pronounced clacky sound, easy-to-press functionality, and a more moderate typing experience, the TTC Iron could be your switch of choice. Its lightweight actuation helps reduce finger fatigue, making it ideal for both enthusiastic typists and those who spend long hours on the keyboard. Ultimately, consider the auditory and tactile feedback you desire in your mechanical keyboard; both switches offer a unique pleasure, but your typing satisfaction will hinge on choosing the one that aligns best with your preferences.
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