HMX Cloud - 50g vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often weigh the characteristics that best suit their typing style and preferences. The HMX Cloud - 50g, a linear switch, captivates users with its clacky sound profile and lighter 50g actuation force. This switch provides a bright and engaging typing experience, complemented by its notably smooth feel, making it a preferred choice for those who enjoy an energetic touch while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L, a product of Sillyworks' innovative "Project Rehash" / SLAY series, stands out for its even lighter actuation force of just 45g. This switch leans towards a deeper sound profile while offering a neutral, subdued resonance that appeals to users looking for a more understated auditory feedback. Both switches cater to specific tastes—whether one prefers the lively nature of the HMX Cloud or the refined presence of the Gateron Type L. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Cloud - 50g and the Gateron Type L share a significant similarity in their housing materials, as both switches utilize nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This common choice of material ensures that users experience a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, contributes to sound absorption, allowing for a rounder and more subdued auditory experience compared to switches made with harder plastics. Thus, users of both switches can expect a similar quality of sound dampening and tactile response, as the characteristics imparted by the nylon material are consistent across both models.
Despite the alignment in their housing materials, where the Gateron Type L and HMX Cloud - 50g differ might be in the specific mold designs or other design choices that could influence the overall feel and sound profile. For instance, variations in how the switches are constructed or the internal components can lead to subtle differences in typing experience. While both switches benefit from nylon’s sound-dampening properties, users may notice nuances in their tactile feedback or bounce, primarily based on the internal switch mechanisms rather than the housing material alone.
In summary, the identical use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings in the HMX Cloud - 50g and Gateron Type L promotes a similar auditory experience characterized by a dampened sound and a rounded profile. However, any discrepancies in user experience will stem from other factors beyond the housing materials themselves, such as the architecture of the switch and how they interact with key press dynamics. Consequently, while the materials promise a similar sound signature for both switches, variations in design and engineering may lead to distinct tactile performances that could affect user preference in real-world usage.
Weight
The HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch offer a comparison of actuation and bottom out forces that highlight their similarities and differences in typing experience. The Cloud - 50g has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Type L features a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This makes the Type L the lighter option, ideal for users who prefer less resistance during extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Cloud - 50g provides a slightly heavier experience, which might appeal to those who favor a more substantial feel when pressing down on keys. Both switches, despite their slight variations, are classified as light, making them suitable for long periods of use without causing fatigue. Thus, while the Gateron Type L requires less force to actuate and bottom out, the differences are minimal enough that users seeking a similar typing experience may find both switches appealing, depending on their personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, we find that the Cloud - 50g has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Type L measures 4.0 mm. This makes the Cloud - 50g the shorter option of the two. For gamers or those who favor rapid response times, the Cloud - 50g switch may be more appealing due to its shorter travel distance, providing a snappier feel with each keystroke. Conversely, the Gateron Type L, with its slightly longer travel distance, may cater to users who prefer a more pronounced depth in their key presses, offering a more substantial sensation. Thus, while both switches are designed to provide seamless typing experiences, the difference in their travel distances may influence user preference based on individual typing styles and needs.
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 Type L comes in at $4.70 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 linear switch offers a notable clacky sound profile, appealing to enthusiasts who prefer an audible feedback during their typing sessions. This bright acoustic signature can create an engaging and lively typing atmosphere, particularly enjoyed by those who thrive on auditory stimulation while working or gaming. In contrast, the Gateron Type L has a more subdued sound signature, leaning towards a deeper tonal profile. The Type L's sound can be described as neutral, making it suitable for a variety of environments—whether at home or in an office setting. While it still produces a noticeable sound when pressed, it is less pronounced than the HMX Cloud - 50g, allowing for a quieter typing experience that may be preferred in noise-sensitive situations.
In terms of feel, the HMX Cloud - 50g is recognized for its silky smoothness that many typists find appealing. This smooth action not only enhances the typing experience but also contributes to a satisfying tactile sensation, likely increasing overall user enjoyment. Conversely, the Gateron Type L excels in its feathery touch, characterized by an exceptionally light actuation force that demands minimal effort from the fingers. This ease of pressing is further complemented by its overall low resistance, making it extraordinarily comfortable for prolonged typing sessions without causing fatigue. This focus on user comfort is essential for those who engage in extended use, whether for gaming, work, or study.
In conclusion, both the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Gateron Type L linear switches present distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Cloud - 50g offers a clacky sound and silky smoothness, while the Type L features a subdued, deeper sound paired with a feathery, easy-to-press feel. Depending on the user's priorities—whether they lean towards auditory feedback and smooth action or a quieter experience with minimal exertion—both switches can deliver enjoyable typing experiences in their own right. Ultimately, choosing between them will depend on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback during use.
Conclusion
In summary, your choice between the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences for sound and feel as well as your typing or gaming environment. If you favor a brighter and more clacky sound profile while enjoying a silky smooth typing experience, the Cloud - 50g may be the better fit for you, particularly if you relish the feedback and excitement of an enthusiast setup. However, if you prefer a switch that offers a more subdued acoustic footprint and tends to lend itself well to longer typing sessions without causing fatigue, the Gateron Type L shines with its feathery touch and easy-to-press design. The Type L's slightly lower actuation force of 45g is ideal for those who prioritize comfort and low strain during extended use, whether for work, school, or gaming. Therefore, your decision should hinge on whether you desire a lively typing experience or a more muted and effortless one; both switches offer distinct advantages that cater to different user needs.
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