HMX Cloud - 50g vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cloud - 50g and the KTT Semi Mute present two distinct yet appealing options for users who appreciate linear switches. The HMX Cloud - 50g is celebrated for its clacky sound profile, offering a lighter touch and a bright, engaging typing experience that many enthusiasts find satisfying. Its silky smooth action enhances the overall feel, making every keystroke enjoyable. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute is designed for those who seek a quieter workspace, with its completely silent operation catering to users who value peace while typing, particularly during late-night hours. Featuring advanced dampening technology, these switches deliver a buttery and mildly neutral feel that allows for extended typing sessions without distraction. While both switches offer unique benefits—vibrant feedback from the Cloud and serene silence from the Semi Mute—let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
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
15mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 50g and the KTT Semi Mute, notable differences arise from the choice of plastics used in their construction. The Cloud - 50g features a nylon top and bottom housing that contributes to its deeper, fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sonic frequencies more effectively than harder materials and leads to a more muted auditory experience. This results in a typing sound that is rounder and less sharp, which can be particularly appealing to those who prefer a more subdued and deeper sound when typing. In contrast, the KTT Semi Mute employs polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, which is a stiffer plastic. This choice enhances the switch's ability to produce a higher-pitched and crisper sound, resulting in a clearer auditory output that resonates with each key press.
Additionally, the aesthetic implications of the materials used in the switches further contrast the two. The clear nature of polycarbonate, as seen in the KTT Semi Mute, allows for a more visually engaging experience, especially when RGB lighting is incorporated. This translucency creates a vibrant light diffusion, enhancing the overall appeal of the keyboard setup. Conversely, the Cloud - 50g's nylon housing has a more matte appearance that might not play as dynamically with RGB lighting but emphasizes the tactile feel and sound profile over visual embellishments. Hence, while both switches may function similarly in providing a responsive typing experience, the visual characteristics and sound profiles afford them distinct identities within the keyboard enthusiast community.
When it comes to overall performance, the different materials will create varying tactile and auditory experiences. The nylon housing of the Cloud - 50g will tend to provide a sound that focuses on depth and warmth, while the polycarbonate construction of the Semi Mute offers clarity and brightness. If switched side by side, users may notice that the Cloud - 50g excels in delivering a softer auditory feel, whereas the KTT Semi Mute stands out with sharper sound articulation. Ultimately, those preferring the distinct qualities each material brings can appreciate how these differences manifest in their typing experience. Despite their contrasting profiles, both switches can provide satisfying performance depending on user preference, illustrating how varied housing materials significantly shape typing experiences in distinct but enjoyable ways.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch with the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, we can observe notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cloud - 50g has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it well-suited for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the KTT Semi Mute features a slightly heavier actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, catering to those who appreciate a more substantial feel when pressing down on keys. As such, while both switches provide a linear experience, the Cloud - 50g delivers a lighter, softer typing experience, whereas the Semi Mute offers a firmer response. Ultimately, if you're seeking a lighter switch, the HMX Cloud - 50g would be the ideal choice, while the KTT Semi Mute would appeal to those favoring a medium-weight switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, it is clear that they differ slightly. The Cloud - 50g boasts a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Semi Mute extends to 4 mm. This makes the Cloud - 50g the shorter option, appealing to those who favor responsiveness in their keystrokes, particularly beneficial for gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Semi Mute's travel distance of 4 mm offers a more traditional feel, which may be more comfortable for users who appreciate a greater depth in their typing experience. Thus, while both switches serve different preferences—one leaning towards quickness and the other towards depth—users can expect varied tactile experiences based on their choice.
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 Semi Mute has an MSRP of $3.97 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi Mute for $3.55.
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 is characterized by its clacky tones, offering a lively and bright auditory experience that many typists and gamers enjoy. This erupts into a more pronounced audio feedback compared to many other linear switches, making it particularly appealing for those who appreciate an engaging clickiness during their typing sessions. In contrast, the KTT Semi Mute switches provide a completely silent operation, aimed at those who require a noise-free environment. Their muted nature results in minimal audible feedback, allowing for discreet use without disturbing others around you, especially in quiet settings. This stark contrast means that if you favor a lively sound, the Cloud - 50g caters to that passion, while the Semi Mute is perfect for late-night typists who prize peace.
When considering the feel of these switches, the HMX Cloud - 50g switch is noted for its silky smoothness, delivering a seamless typing experience that enhances the pleasure of each keystroke. This fluidity tends to attract typists who favor a smooth transition without any tactile bump, promoting a carefree typing rhythm. Conversely, the KTT Semi Mute switch is described with a buttery quality, suggesting an equally smooth and effortless keystroke, albeit without the accompanying sound profile. With the Semi Mute's mild nature, users can expect a gentle typing experience that maintains a comfortable balance, making it suitable for a wide range of users, regardless of their typing style or skill level.
In conclusion, the HMX Cloud - 50g and KTT Semi Mute linear switches offer distinctly different experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Cloud - 50g is ideal for those who enjoy a clacky sound and a smooth typing experience, while the Semi Mute excels in creating a silent and comfortable environment, perfect for uninterrupted typing. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your priorities—whether you express yourself through sound or if you prefer to type in serene silence. Understanding these qualities allows newcomers to make informed decisions tailored to their unique typing needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, your personal typing preferences and environment will play crucial roles. If you favor a lighter switch that delivers a clacky sound profile and a silky smooth feel, the HMX Cloud - 50g is the optimal choice, especially if you enjoy an engaging and bright typing experience. This switch is particularly appealing for gaming or typing sessions during the day when noise is less of a concern, allowing each keystroke to feel lively and responsive. However, if you often type during late-night hours or in shared spaces where noise must be minimized, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch would be a better fit. With its medium bottom out force of 58 grams and completely silent operation, this switch ensures you can write or game undisturbed, while still providing a buttery and mild typing feel. Ultimately, your decision hinges on whether you prioritize acoustic feedback and touch sensitivity or a quiet, smooth tactile experience. Balancing these elements with your specific needs will guide you to the right switch for your keyboard setup.
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