HMX Cloud - 50g vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the HMX Cloud - 50g and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) presents a fascinating comparison for enthusiasts seeking specific tactile experiences. The HMX Cloud - 50g is celebrated for its lightweight design and vibrant clacky sound profile, making it an ideal choice for users who relish a bright and engaging typing experience. This switch offers a silky smooth feel, allowing for effortless keystrokes that enhance overall typing speed and enjoyment. In contrast, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) excels in providing an almost whisper-quiet operation, perfect for those who prioritize a tranquil environment without sacrificing smoothness. Its unique characteristics—described as 'thocky' and 'pillowy'—deliver a delightful tactile experience while maintaining a low-pitched and muted sound, appealing to users who seek a more subtle auditory feedback. Ultimately, both switches cater to distinct preferences within the mechanical keyboard community; 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
39g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Silver white spring
Housing materials
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 50g and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2), a key distinction lies in their housing materials: the Cloud utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom, while the Silent Frozen features polycarbonate for both. The nylon used in the Cloud - 50g is known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile that is often viewed as more pleasing by users who prefer a softer acoustic response. This quality makes the Cloud - 50g an excellent choice for those who prioritize a muted and cushioned typing experience, as the softness of nylon contributes to a rounded auditory experience.
In contrast, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) showcases polycarbonate in both its top and bottom housings, which results in a sharper and more resonant sound profile. Polycarbonate’s rigidity enhances the clarity of keystrokes and promotes a higher-pitched auditory output, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced typing sound. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate allows for effective RGB lighting effects, making the Silent Frozen visually striking apart from its acoustic attributes. The combination of the material characteristics yields a distinct typing feel, leaning towards a crisper response that complements the overall setup for gamers and typists who favor tactile feedback and brightness from their key switches.
Despite these differences, users could potentially achieve similar overall typing experiences by focusing on switch configuration and placement. If both switches are tuned to specific preferences, such as using dampening features or customizing keycaps, one could mitigate the inherent sound characteristics of each material. While the Cloud - 50g brings a deeper sound profile due to its nylon makeup, and the Silent Frozen offers a crisper sound due to polycarbonate, careful setup regarding placement and sound dampening can help bridge the gap, creating a typing experience that resonates with users' preferences regardless of the switch's material properties. Thus, while nylon and polycarbonate present distinct auditory experiences, they can still be managed to provide satisfying results across varying typist requirements.
Weight
The HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch both exhibit light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. The Cloud - 50g features an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Silent Frozen (V2) has an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. This makes the Silent Frozen (V2) the lighter option in terms of actuation force, which may appeal to users seeking a more effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Cloud - 50g, with a heavier bottom out force, provides a more substantial feel when fully pressed down, which some users might prefer for feedback. Overall, while both switches are relatively light, the Silent Frozen (V2) would generally allow for quicker actuation with less force, whereas the Cloud - 50g offers more resistance at the end of the keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, we see a notable difference between the two. The HMX Cloud - 50g features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, which is on the longer side, providing a more substantial feel with each key press. In contrast, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, catering to those who prefer a quicker response and a more streamlined typing experience. For gamers or individuals who enjoy fast-paced activities, the shorter travel distance of the Silent Frozen (V2) could offer an advantage in responsiveness. However, for users who value a more pronounced keystroke, the Cloud - 50g's longer travel distance may be more appealing. In summary, while both switches cater to different preferences, the Cloud - 50g offers a deeper, more deliberate feel, whereas the Silent Frozen (V2) provides a faster and more abrupt response.
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 TTC Silent Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
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 is best characterized by its clacky sound profile, which resonates with enthusiasts who appreciate a bright and engaging auditory experience while typing. This switch provides a pronounced auditory feedback, contributing to a lively typing atmosphere. In contrast, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) is built for those who prefer minimal noise, as it boasts an extremely quiet sound profile. This switch is described with qualities such as a thocky, low-pitched, and muted sound, producing a softer and more subdued auditory interaction. Therefore, anyone seeking a more vibrant sound should opt for the Cloud - 50g, while the Silent Frozen (V2) is ideal for users aiming for a quieter environment.
When examining the feel, the HMX Cloud - 50g switch offers a silky smooth typing experience, allowing for seamless keystrokes that enhances overall efficiency. In contrast, the Silent Frozen (V2) presents a variety of sensations described as creamy, buttery, feathery, subtle, and polished. This switching mechanism ensures a smooth, effortless, and light typing experience, effectively reducing finger fatigue during extended usage. While both switches deliver comfortable and enjoyable typing experiences, the Cloud - 50g tends to focus more on that smooth simplicity, while the Silent Frozen (V2) combines nuanced sensations that favor a plush feel.
In conclusion, both the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Cloud - 50g provides a brighter, clacky sound with a smooth typing experience, whereas the Silent Frozen (V2) excels in quiet operation complemented by a rich variety of plush sensations. Depending on personal preference regarding noise and tactile feedback, both switches can provide enjoyable results, making each an appealing choice within their respective sound and feel profiles.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you're looking for a lively, clacky experience that brings a sense of brightness and excitement to your typing, the HMX Cloud - 50g is an excellent choice. Its 50g actuation force provides a lightweight feel yet maintains a satisfying tactile feedback, making it ideal for enthusiastic typists and gamers who enjoy that engaging sound profile. However, if you often find yourself in quiet environments, such as shared offices or late-night gaming sessions, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) is the better option. With its muted sound and feathery soft touch, this switch allows for smooth, uninterrupted typing without disturbing those around you. Its low-pitched thocky sound delivers a satisfying but subtle auditory experience, perfect for when you want a peaceful atmosphere without sacrificing performance. In essence, consider your typing style and environment to make an informed decision that best suits your needs.
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