HMX Cloud - 50g vs. TTC Yunhai
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the TTC Yunhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the diverse world of mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves choosing between options like the HMX Cloud - 50g and the TTC Yunhai, both of which are linear switches but deliver distinctly different experiences. The HMX Cloud - 50g is celebrated for its clacky sound profile and silky smooth feel, making it an enticing choice for those who relish a bright and responsive typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai stands out with its deeper, rounded sound profile, providing an incredibly light actuation force that caters to typists who prefer a gentle and effortless touch. While both switches promise smooth keystrokes, their auditory feedback and feel can greatly influence your typing comfort and enjoyment. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POK
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
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Cloud - 50g and the TTC Yunhai both utilize nylon for their top and bottom switch housings, resulting in a remarkable similarity in their acoustic characteristics and typing feel. Notably, nylon is a time-honored material in switch design, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Due to its relatively soft composition, nylon effectively absorbs sound, which results in a duller and rounder auditory feedback. This shared material allows both switches to provide a uniform typing experience characterized by muffled key presses and a smooth return sound, which enthusiasts often seek for a pleasant auditory sensation.
Although both the Cloud - 50g and the Yunhai are crafted from nylon throughout, their identical material choices yield nuanced differences in performance that depend on the specific design of each switch's housings. The bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and overall tactile feel when keys are pressed down, while the top housing primarily affects the sound profile experienced upon release. Therefore, despite the common use of nylon, the individual design elements and internal mechanics of each switch could lead to varied typing experiences, even if the foundational material remains constant.
Ultimately, while the HMX Cloud - 50g and TTC Yunhai share the advantage of nylon construction, the potential differences in design and feel stemming from their respective housings can differentiate the user experience. Those looking for a switch with consistent characteristics may appreciate the similar sound profiles provided by nylon, but specific attributes like actuation force, response, and feedback may vary. Thus, typists can expect a shared fundamental sound quality but may find subtle nuances in the overall experience due to the differing switch designs, allowing for personal preference in selecting between these two nylon-clad options.
Weight
The HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch are quite comparable in terms of their specifications, both exhibiting an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This similarity means that users can expect a similar typing experience regarding the force required to register a keypress and the substantial feel when the key is fully depressed. Both switches are categorized as light options, making them suitable for those who prefer less resistance for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming without fatigue. Since their actuation and bottom out forces are identical, users looking for a lighter feel will find both switches equally appealing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Cloud - 50g has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Yunhai features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Yunhai the more responsive option, likely appealing to gamers who favor quicker key presses for faster response times. In contrast, the Cloud - 50g with its longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feel for those who prefer a deeper actuation, allowing for a more tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference; if you lean towards rapid responsiveness, the shorter 3.6 mm travel of the Yunhai is preferable, whereas if you appreciate a more pronounced depth, the 3.9 mm travel of the Cloud - 50g would be the better fit.
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 Yunhai has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yunhai for $5.99.
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 is characterized by its clacky sound profile, making it a lively choice for typists who appreciate a bright auditory feedback while typing. This clackiness provides an engaging typing experience, often appealing to enthusiasts who value the audible cue of each keystroke. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai linear switch presents a deeper, rounded sound profile that gives a softer acoustic feedback. This makes it a quieter yet still enjoyable option, perfect for those who prefer a more subdued auditory experience without sacrificing quality.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cloud - 50g is celebrated for its silky smooth action, providing an effortless and enjoyable typing experience. This smoothness enhances the overall satisfaction of each stroke, making it an appealing choice for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai switches are recognized for their incredibly light actuation force, allowing for a gentle and effortless keystroke. While both switches are linear, the emphasis on light actuation in the Yunhai can provide a unique, airy feel that distinguishes it from the Cloud switch despite both offering smooth performance.
In summary, the HMX Cloud - 50g delivers a vibrant and clacky sound combined with a notably smooth feel, ideal for enthusiasts seeking a bright typing experience. The TTC Yunhai, conversely, offers a deeper sound and a remarkably light actuation force, catering to those who prefer a gentle and quieter typing experience. While both switches have their unique characteristics in sound and feel, users seeking a similar typing experience can consider how their choice of keyboard and keycaps may further influence the overall quality and satisfaction derived from either switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch should be guided by your preferences for sound and feel while typing. If you are someone who enjoys a clacky sound profile and a smooth typing experience, then the HMX Cloud - 50g will be a suitable option for you. It provides that bright, enthusiastic feedback which can enhance the overall typing experience for those who appreciate a bit of auditory stimulation in their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter environment with a more subdued, deep sound profile, the TTC Yunhai will likely be your go-to choice. Its incredibly light actuation force offers a gentle, effortless feel that can make long typing sessions far more comfortable, especially for those who prioritize a softer touch. Therefore, consider your personal typing style and environment when making your decision. Are you looking for engagement and liveliness in your keystrokes, or do you prefer a more serene atmosphere with an emphasis on ease? This will guide you to the right switch for your needs.
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