HMX Cloud - 50g vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cloud - 50g and the KTT Phalaenopsis each offer unique experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The HMX Cloud - 50g is a linear switch that garners attention with its clacky sound profile and light actuation force of 50g, making it an ideal choice for enthusiasts who appreciate a bright and silky smooth typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis, categorized by its bassy and stepped characteristics, features a tactile switch design with a slightly lighter actuation force of 37g, perfect for those seeking reduced finger fatigue without sacrificing the feel of each keystroke. While the Cloud switch is celebrated for its rapid responsiveness and satisfying sound, the Phalaenopsis is lauded for its remarkable tactile feedback that enhances the typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
37g
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
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The HMX Cloud - 50g and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches showcase a distinct contrast in their housing materials, lending differing audio experiences to typists. The Cloud - 50g features a top and bottom housing made of nylon, a material known for its softer properties. This softness allows it to absorb sound waves, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory profile that typists might find warmer and more comforting. Consequently, the tactile response when typing on the Cloud - 50g can feel more muted but satisfying, as the nylon housing creates a sound that is less harsh and smoother overall. This choice of housing material plays a significant role in shaping the character of the switch's acoustics.
In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis opts for polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, offering a very different auditory experience. Polycarbonate's rigidity translates into sharper, higher-pitched sounds that can contribute to a more pronounced and resonant typing experience. Users who type on the Phalaenopsis may appreciate the clearer sound profile that enhances the tactile feedback with every keystroke. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it visually appealing, especially when RGB lighting is implemented, drawing attention to the switch's visual aesthetics while simultaneously amplifying its crisp sound output.
Despite the differences in material composition, both switches can achieve a coherent typing experience with distinct sound signatures. The nylon housing of the Cloud - 50g emphasizes a fuller sound during key presses, while the polycarbonate of the Phalaenopsis sharpens the sound profile. However, if one is aiming for a balanced acoustic environment, adjusting the typing style—such as using softer keycap materials or tuning the switch—could yield similar auditory results, helping to bridge the gap between the two different housing materials. Ultimately, the choice between the HMX Cloud - 50g and the KTT Phalaenopsis will depend on personal preference regarding sound and feel, as well as aesthetic considerations.
Weight
The HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offer interesting comparisons in terms of their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cloud switch has an actuation force of 42 grams, while the Phalaenopsis switch is slightly lighter with an actuation force of 37 grams. Both switches share the same bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that regardless of the slight difference in actuation forces, users will experience the same level of resistance when pressing the switch all the way down. Consequently, for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, the KTT Phalaenopsis may be the more suitable choice, as it requires less force to actuate. Conversely, the HMX Cloud offers a marginally heavier actuation force, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial feeling when typing. Overall, while both switches have the same bottom out force, the difference in actuation forces could lead to distinctive typing experiences depending on user preferences.
Travel distance
The HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference in travel distance, though subtle, can significantly affect user experience. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the shorter Cloud - 50g switch, which allows for quicker actuation, beneficial for fast-paced gaming scenarios. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch, with its longer travel distance, offers a more pronounced depth that may provide a satisfying tactile feedback for users who appreciate a more substantial keystroke. Therefore, if you're leaning towards a more immediate response in your typing or gaming, the Cloud - 50g is the better choice, while the Phalaenopsis caters to those who value a more traditional, hearty feel in their switches.
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 Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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 sound profile of the HMX Cloud - 50g switch delivers a clacky tone that is vibrant and bright, making it particularly appealing to those who enjoy a pronounced auditory feedback during typing. This contrast with the KTT Phalaenopsis switch, which features a bassy and thocky sound. The Phalaenopsis produces a deeper, richer audio experience characterized by a soft "thud" or a subtle "knock" when pressed, adding a satisfying depth to each keystroke. While the subjective enjoyment of each sound can be heavily influenced by the keyboard's construction and choice of keycaps, users can expect distinctly different auditory experiences when using these two switches.
In terms of feel, the HMX Cloud - 50g provides a silky smooth typing experience, offering a seamless glide as fingers traverse the keys. This sensation contrasts with the KTT Phalaenopsis, which is a tactile switch with a discernible bump that provides immediate feedback at the actuation point. The Phalaenopsis' stepped feel allows typists to appreciate a gentle resistance, delivering a nuanced tactile experience that enhances typing confidence without overwhelming finger engagement.
In summary, while the HMX Cloud - 50g switch stands out with its lighter, slick feel and bright clacky sound, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch offers a tactile, rich auditory experience with a satisfying bump that can reduce fatigue during extended typing sessions. Overall, these switches cater to different preferences, providing enthusiasts with a range of tactile and auditory feedback. Depending on your typing style and sound preference, each switch can deliver a delightful experience, making them both worthy contenders in the mechanical keyboard landscape.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and the experience you seek. If you enjoy a lighter switch that produces a bright, clacky sound while providing a smooth typing experience, the HMX Cloud - 50g is an excellent option. Its 50g bottom-out force makes it suitable for those who appreciate a fast-paced typing style without the added fatigue during long sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers a tactile bump and a deeper, rich sound profile, the KTT Phalaenopsis with its 50g bottom-out force and 37g actuation is a fantastic choice. Its stepped tactile feel ensures a delightful keystroke experience, making it ideal for those who appreciate physical feedback while typing. In essence, if you lean towards a linear and smooth typing experience, go for the HMX Cloud - 50g, but if you value tactile feedback and a rich auditory experience, the KTT Phalaenopsis will serve you well.
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