HMX Cloud - 50g vs. HMX Macchiato
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the HMX Macchiato switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Cloud - 50g and the HMX Macchiato are two enticing options worthy of consideration. The Cloud - 50g stands out with its clacky sound profile and lighter actuation force, making it a perfect choice for enthusiasts who crave a bright and pronounced typing experience. Its silky smooth feel adds to its appeal, catering to those who enjoy a more responsive typing sensation. On the other hand, the HMX Macchiato, designed by YG Studio, also offers a smooth typing experience with a bright sound profile, though it caters to a slightly different audience that might prioritize tactile feedback and a rich audio experience. Both switches embody the linear switch design, providing a seamless keystroke without any tactile bump or click, yet they each present unique characteristics that can influence 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
42g
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
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Cloud - 50g and HMX Macchiato share a notable similarity in their housing materials, specifically the use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This classic switch housing material is favored for its ability to create a distinct sound profile characterized by depth and fullness. The nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. As a consequence, both switches provide users with similar typing sounds, ensuring that those who value auditory feedback will find a satisfying experience in both models.
Although both switch variants utilize nylon for their housings, the uniformity in material accentuates a key feature regarding sound distribution and tactile feedback. The consistent use of nylon in both the Cloud - 50g and the Macchiato means that the sound experience will be similar regardless of the switches' function. For instance, during usage, the deeper sound profile produced during a keypress is influenced equally by both the top and bottom housings, and this shared quality ensures that the experience of bottoming out will resonate similarly in both switches. Typing on either switch can provide users with a cohesive auditory signature that many enthusiasts appreciate.
The major distinctions between the Cloud - 50g and Macchiato may lie in other design features or specifications rather than the housing materials themselves. However, given that both depend on nylon for top and bottom housings, you can expect that the overall performance in terms of sound and tactile feel will remain consistent between the two models. Users can be assured they don’t sacrifice auditory or tactile quality when choosing between these two nylon-housed switches, as they both promise a harmonious user experience that emphasizes the benefits of nylon's sound-absorbing characteristics.
Weight
The HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch exhibit identical specifications, with both featuring an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable typing experience from both switches, allowing for ease of use during extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. As both switches are categorized as light, they provide a softer feel that may be preferable for those who favor longer periods of use without fatigue. With their equal actuation and bottom out forces, users can anticipate similarly responsive performance, making either option a suitable choice for those seeking a less strenuous typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, we find notable differences that cater to varying preferences in typing experience. The Cloud - 50g features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Macchiato, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users of the Macchiato will experience a deeper key press, providing a more substantial tactile feedback, which some may find more satisfying. Conversely, the shorter travel distance of the Cloud - 50g may appeal to those who prefer a quicker response time, such as gamers who favor swifter actions. Ultimately, if you're looking for a more responsive feel, the Cloud - 50g is the better choice, while the Macchiato caters to those who appreciate a more traditional depth in their typing experience.
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 Macchiato has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Macchiato 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Cloud - 50g switch presents a clacky sound profile, appealing to those who enjoy a bright and lively auditory experience when typing. This quality makes it especially satisfying for enthusiasts who relish the acoustic feedback of their keystrokes. Similarly, the HMX Macchiato is noted for its bright sound profile, ensuring an engaging auditory experience while typing. While both switches feature a bright sound, it’s important to remember that the overall sound perception can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycap materials.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cloud - 50g is characterized by a silky smooth typing experience that allows for effortless keystrokes, making it a pleasure to type on for extended periods. The HMX Macchiato also boasts a silky smooth feel, which complements its sound profile beautifully. This means that users of either switch can expect a consistently enjoyable typing experience, with a focus on rapid and fluid keystrokes.
In conclusion, both the HMX Cloud - 50g and HMX Macchiato linear switches offer unique yet overlapping qualities that cater to different preferences. The Cloud - 50g stands out with its clacky sound profile while both switches provide a silky smooth feel that enhances typing comfort. If you are looking for a bright auditory experience combined with a seamless feel, either option will deliver a satisfying typing experience, though your personal choice may ultimately depend on the sound characteristics you prefer.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Cloud - 50g and the HMX Macchiato linear switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences for sound and feel while typing. If you relish a clacky sound that adds a lively atmosphere to your typing sessions, the HMX Cloud - 50g would be a fantastic choice. Its lighter actuation force, combined with a silky smooth feel, is perfect for those longer typing sessions or gaming marathons where response time and comfort are paramount. On the other hand, if you prefer a typing experience that leans more toward a deeper, richer sound profile while still enjoying a silky smooth glide, the HMX Macchiato might be more to your liking. Both switches offer a light bottoming out force at 50 grams, but the Macchiato's design is tailored for those who appreciate a unique auditory experience paired with that same smooth typing feel. Overall, your choice should reflect whether you are more drawn to a clackier sound or a richer, more refined auditory experience.
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