HMX Cloud - 50g vs. KTT Laurel
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the KTT Laurel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cloud - 50g and the KTT Laurel both present compelling options for enthusiasts seeking a satisfying typing experience. The HMX Cloud - 50g, with its clacky sound profile and lighter 50g actuation force, offers a bright and lively feel that many typists adore, providing a smooth tactile experience that enhances every keystroke. In contrast, the KTT Laurel switch offers a medium-light touch, featuring a full POM housing and a design that ensures responsiveness without sacrificing comfort. With a subtly low-pitched sound profile, the Laurel caters to users looking for a quieter, snappier feel while still delivering an enjoyable typing rhythm. While these two linear switches share a common goal of providing a fluid typing experience, they cater to different preferences in sound and feel. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
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
22m spring
Housing materials
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 50g and the KTT Laurel, the differences in housing materials present unique auditory experiences for users. The Cloud - 50g utilizes a nylon material for both its top and bottom housings, while the KTT Laurel employs POM for its top and bottom housings. Nylon, known for its softer texture, contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile as it absorbs more sound vibrations. This results in a more muted auditory experience, reminiscent of the plush feel when striking the keys. In contrast, the POM material used in the Laurel offers a different acoustic character, producing a pleasing yet unique sound profile that remains on the deeper side but is strikingly distinct from nylon.
The contrasting characteristics of these materials also affect the overall performance and tactile feedback of each switch. While the nylon used in the Cloud - 50g excels at dampening sound and providing a more rounded auditory experience, the POM in the Laurel—though also yielding a deep sound—offers its own muted clarity. The softer nylon contributes more substantially to both the bottom-out sound and the tactile feel of the key presses, making for a cushioned experience. The hardness and rigidity of POM produce a different tactile sensation, which may appeal to users seeking a distinctive click in their typing experience while still providing a deeply satisfying auditory finish.
Despite these differences, both switches can yield similar results if users are seeking a muted and rich typing experience overall. If a user prefers a rounded auditory profile, they may find satisfaction in either the Cloud - 50g or the Laurel, as both materials lend themselves to a sound that is deeper and less harsh than harder plastics. Consequently, while the tactile feedback may differ due to the housing materials, both switches can create an immersive typing atmosphere that prioritizes comfort and sound quality. Ultimately, the choice between nylon and POM will depend on individual preferences regarding the nuances of sound and feel during key presses, as users can still enjoy a muted and fulfilling typing experience with either option.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch to the KTT Laurel linear switch, both switches exhibit relatively similar characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Cloud - 50g has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the KTT Laurel features a slightly higher actuation force at 43 grams, yet shares the same bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that while both switches bottom out at the same weight, the Cloud requires a marginally lighter force to actuate, making it slightly easier to press. Consequently, the Cloud - 50g can be considered the lighter option, offering a softer touch suitable for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the KTT Laurel, with its slightly stronger actuation force, provides a more substantial push feel, which might appeal to those who prefer greater resistance when typing. Overall, both options remain in the lighter category, making them suitable for users who prioritize comfort during extended use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, the Cloud - 50g features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Laurel has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference indicates that the Cloud - 50g offers a more pronounced key press, which may be preferred by users who enjoy a deeper feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Laurel's shorter travel distance promotes quicker response times, making it a more suitable choice for gamers seeking efficiency and rapid actions. Ultimately, if you prioritize a greater tactile experience, the Cloud - 50g would be the ideal choice, whereas those leaning towards speed and responsiveness might find the KTT Laurel more advantageous.
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 KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 produces a clacky sound profile, delivering a bright auditory experience that will appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic feedback while typing. In contrast, the KTT Laurel switch offers a subtly low-pitched sound that leans towards a bass-heavy and mellow tone. This provides a much quieter and less intrusive typing experience, making it ideal for environments where noise control is important. Ultimately, the Cloud - 50g will likely provide a more engaging sound, while the Laurel will cater to those who prefer a more subdued and pleasant sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cloud - 50g is known for its silky smooth experience, offering a light touch that makes for effortless typing. The KTT Laurel, on the other hand, is characterized by its snappy responsiveness. The combination of its medium-light action and design features makes it feel lively and engaging under the fingers. If you appreciate a smooth and seamless typing experience, the Cloud will be your pick, while the Laurel may be more appealing if you are looking for a switch that provides immediate feedback in your keystrokes.
In summary, if you enjoy a bright, clacky sound and a silky smooth typing feel, the HMX Cloud - 50g will likely suit your preferences. However, for a more subdued sound with a snappy, responsive touch, the KTT Laurel offers a compelling alternative. Both switches deliver unique qualities, allowing users to choose based on their individual auditory and tactile preferences, ensuring that whichever switch you select, you'll have an engaging typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 50g and the KTT Laurel linear switch, you should consider your typing preferences and the typing experience you seek. If you enjoy a brighter, more clacky sound profile and appreciate a smoothly satisfying feel during typing, the HMX Cloud - 50g may be the perfect fit for you. Its light bottom-out force allows for swift keystrokes, making it ideal for both gaming and typing scenarios where speed and auditory feedback are essential. On the other hand, if you're looking for a slightly more subdued sound and a typing experience that feels snappy, the KTT Laurel would be a better choice. With its low-pitched sound profile and short travel design, it strikes a wonderful balance between responsiveness and comfort, making it suitable for extended typing sessions where you desire a less distracting auditory environment. Depending on whether you prioritize auditory feedback and a silky feel or a responsive and mellow typing experience, you can choose the switch that aligns best with your needs.
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