HMX Cloud - 50g vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Gateron Oil King (V2), both of which are linear switches, yet offer distinctly different typing experiences. The HMX Cloud - 50g is celebrated for its clacky sound profile and lighter actuation force, making it an excellent choice for those who crave a bright, lively typing sensation. Its smooth feel enhances the overall experience, perfect for users who appreciate a responsive and engaging interface. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King (V2) stands out with its rich, creamy, and lower-pitched sound, reminiscent of dark chocolate snapping—a delightful auditory accompaniment that pairs well with its exceptional buttery smoothness. This switch is ideal for those who prioritize a polished and indulgent typing feel. While both switches bring unique attributes to the table, the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
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
Color coated
Housing materials
The HMX Cloud - 50g and the Gateron Oil King (V2) both feature nylon as the primary material for their top housings, which means they share similarities in terms of sound profile and tactile experience. Nylon, known for its softer plastic properties, allows for a deeper and fuller sound when typing, which contributes to a more muted auditory feedback. This shared characteristic means that users can expect a smoother and rounder sound when actuating the switches in both models, promoting a pleasant typing experience that is less jarring than switches made from harder plastics. Consequently, if users gravitate toward a softer sound profile, both the Cloud - 50g and Oil King (V2) will deliver on this expectation.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials of the two switches diverge significantly, which leads to distinctions in their overall auditory and tactile sensations. The Cloud - 50g employs a nylon bottom housing, which emphasizes the softer, deeper sound characteristics that contribute to a more subdued experience when bottoming out. Conversely, the Oil King (V2) utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, resulting in a more pronounced and high-pitched sound profile that can be described as clacky. This alteration will influence how the switches feel during each keystroke, wherein the typing experience on the Oil King (V2) may feel brighter and more resonant due to the interplay of its unique bottom housing material compared to the softer finish of the Cloud - 50g's housing.
Ultimately, the distinct bottom housing materials imply that while both switches share similarities in their top housing sound profiles, they produce varying outcomes during use. Users who prefer the muted and more rounded sound of the nylon bottom in the Cloud - 50g may find the overall experience very different from the brighter and more percussive sound offered by the Oil King (V2). However, it should be noted that even with these differences, the overall typing experience may still satisfy users who appreciate the nuanced acoustics of both switches. Situational preferences regarding sound and tactile feedback will significantly shape the individual user's choice between the two models.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Cloud switch features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which makes it ideal for prolonged typing sessions and casual gaming. In contrast, the Oil King (V2) has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial tactile experience that some users may prefer for a robust typing feel. Consequently, the Cloud switch caters to those who prioritize comfort and ease of use over extended periods, while the Oil King is suited for users seeking a firmer response in their key presses. Overall, the differences in weight and force between these two switches allow users to select based on their preferences for lighter or heavier typing experiences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch, it is evident that the two differ in their measurements. The HMX Cloud has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Gateron Oil King (V2) features a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This difference means that if you prioritize a more responsive keypress, the HMX Cloud switch would be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance, whereas those who appreciate a deeper, more substantial feel may prefer the Gateron Oil King (V2) for its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences regarding key feel and responsiveness.
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 Oil King (V2) comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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, the HMX Cloud - 50g switch presents a bright sound profile that can be termed as clacky, which lends itself to an engaging and lively typing experience. This contrasts with the Gateron Oil King (V2), which produces a low-pitched, bassy sound reminiscent of snapping dark chocolate—offering a richer, deeper auditory sensation during key presses. The Cloud’s clackiness could be an advantage for those who appreciate a more expressive and noticeable feedback, while the Oil King’s mellow tone caters to users who might prefer a more subdued aural environment. Keep in mind, the sound can also be affected by factors like the keyboard's design and the type of keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the HMX Cloud - 50g is noted for its silky smoothness, providing a satisfying glide during typing. The Gateron Oil King (V2), on the other hand, excels in offering a variety of textures: creamy, silky, buttery, and polished. This combination results in an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience, giving the user a sense of effortless keystrokes as fingers glide across the keys. While both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, the Oil King (V2) arguably adds more dimension to that feel, thanks to its unique design and lubrication.
In conclusion, while both the HMX Cloud - 50g and Gateron Oil King (V2) switches present their own unique auditory and tactile characteristics, they cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Cloud - 50g is perfect for those who enjoy a lively clacky sound and a silky typing experience, while the Oil King (V2) offers a deeper sound profile along with a superior array of smooth sensations. Ultimately, both switches can deliver a delightful typing experience, depending on personal preferences and usage scenarios.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your choice between the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switches boils down to your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile. If you gravitate towards a lighter touch during your typing sessions and appreciate a brighter, clackier audio feedback, the Cloud - 50g is an excellent choice for you. Its silky smooth feel will enhance your typing experience, making it perfect for both gaming and casual typing, especially if you prefer a quick response without needing to exert much force. However, if you prefer a richer, more robust sound with a medium-heavy touch, the Gateron Oil King (V2) should be your go-to switch. Its creamy and buttery smooth feel ensures a luxurious typing experience, complemented by a low-pitched, bassy sound profile that mimics the satisfying sensation of dark chocolate. Ultimately, it all comes down to whether you want a lighter and more percussive feedback from your keyboard or a deeper, more velvety sound with a slightly firmer push. Choosing the right switch will significantly enhance your overall typing experience, so consider what aspects matter most to you.
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