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HMX Cloud - 50g vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°

An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves pondering the unique characteristics that different switches offer. The HMX Cloud - 50g is particularly celebrated for its clacky sound profile, making it an ideal choice for those who relish a bright and engaging typing experience. Its silky smooth feel adds to the appeal, allowing for effortless keystrokes that can enhance typing speed and enjoyment. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° sets itself apart with its focus on a quiet, unobtrusive typing experience. This switch utilizes innovative self-padding and a dual-rail structure that not only ensures unparalleled smoothness and stability but also absorbs sound effectively, making it perfect for quieter environments. While the HMX Cloud - 50g appeals to individuals seeking auditory feedback and a tactile punch, the Gateron Zero Degree caters to users prioritizing silence and comfort. 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

45g

Bottom-out force

50g

Bottom-out force

N/A

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Pre-travel

1.80 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

POM

Top housing material

Nylon

Top housing material

Polycarbonate

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

22mm single-staged spring

Spring

20mm extended spring

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, it is apparent that they employ different materials for their top housings, which significantly alters their sound profiles. The Cloud - 50g utilizes a nylon top housing that imparts a deeper and fuller sound as a result of nylon's softer qualities. This material absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, leading to a more muted acoustic experience conducive to a rounder tonal quality. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0° features a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for its crispness and clarity. This stiffer plastic not only provides a higher-pitched sound but also enhances resonance, resulting in a sharper auditory feedback when typing. Therefore, users of these switches would experience an entirely different sound profile depending on the top housing material utilized.

On the other hand, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing, as both the Cloud - 50g and the Zero Degree 0° are constructed with nylon in this section. This shared material means that the bottom-out sound and feel will be consistently duller and rounder across both switches when pressed. The nylon bottom housing’s capacity for sound absorption remains unchanged, leading to a similar tactile experience as users reach the actuation point. Thus, while the top housings impart distinctive acoustic characteristics, the nylon bottom housing plays a key role in providing consistent feedback and tactile satisfaction for both models.

In essence, the differences in top housing materials between the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° yield contrasting sound profiles, which affect user experience during typing. However, simultaneous use of nylon for the bottom housing allows users to achieve a unified feel and sound when pressing the keys. This combination means that while the auditory feedback upon key release diverges — with one being fuller and the other being crisper — the fundamental tactile response of the switches retains a level of similarity due to their shared nylon bottom housing composition. Consequently, users seeking depth in sound can find satisfaction with the Cloud - 50g, whereas those aiming for clarity may prefer the Zero Degree 0°, but both switches will provide consistent performance during use.

Weight

The HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch exhibit differences in their actuation forces, with the Cloud switch requiring a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the slightly heavier 45 grams of the Zero Degree switch. This difference may appeal to users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, making the Cloud switch more suitable for prolonged use during work or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force of the Gateron switch remains unknown, making it difficult to directly compare that aspect with the Cloud switch, which has a bottom out force of 50 grams. The Cloud switch’s combination of a lighter actuation force and a definitive bottom out force suggests it may be more forgiving for extended typing, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel may gravitate towards the Gateron switch despite the lack of information on its bottom out force. In summary, the HMX Cloud - 50g is the lighter option, appealing to users seeking comfort during long sessions, whereas the Gateron Zero Degree 0° offers a somewhat heavier actuation force, though its full characteristics regarding bottom out remain unspecified.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, we observe a distinct difference. The Cloud - 50g has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Zero Degree 0° features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Gateron Zero Degree the more responsive choice, appealing to gamers and users seeking quicker key actuation for faster response times. On the other hand, the HMX Cloud - 50g, with its longer travel distance, provides a more robust feel that some users may prefer for a satisfying typing experience. Thus, if you value speed and responsiveness, the Gateron Zero Degree is the better option, but for those who appreciate a deeper press, the HMX Cloud - 50g would be the favorable 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 Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.

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 known for its clacky sound profile, which offers a bright and engaging auditory feedback that many typists and gamers appreciate. This lively sound adds an element of excitement to the typing experience, making it particularly appealing for those who enjoy a more noticeable acoustic presence. Conversely, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch is designed for a quieter operation, featuring an innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure that absorbs sound remarkably well. This results in a more muted, nearly silent typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer to type without disturbing others around them. Therefore, while the Cloud - 50g brings a spirited clack, the Zero Degree 0° offers a serene silence, catering to different preferences.

When it comes to feel, the Cloud - 50g is characterized by its silky smoothness, providing a pleasant and effortless typing experience that is ideal for fast typing and gaming alike. The smooth action allows for continuous keystrokes without the distraction of any bumps or feedback, making it a favorite among enthusiasts looking for a fluid experience. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° prioritizes softness and stability with its soft, elastic feel, further enhanced by its self-padding design that prevents any jarring impacts. This cushioning effect contributes to an exceptionally comfortable typing experience, reducing finger fatigue and providing a sense of control with each keystroke. As a result, while the Cloud - 50g delivers a smooth glide, the Zero Degree 0° focuses on providing a gentle touch.

In conclusion, both switches cater to different typing preferences and environments. The HMX Cloud - 50g offers a vibrant, clacky sound alongside a silky smooth feel, ideal for those who relish an expressive auditory experience. By contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° excels in providing a silent, soft touch with great stability, perfect for quiet settings. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, these switches can offer vastly different yet enjoyable typing experiences, appealing to diverse users in the mechanical keyboard community.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and environment. If you enjoy a lighter touch and appreciate a clacky sound profile that enhances your typing experience, the Cloud - 50g is the clear winner. Its 50-gram bottom-out force provides a responsive feel, making it ideal for enthusiasts who prioritize a bright and engaging auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, if you seek a silent typing experience, perhaps due to working in a shared space or during late-night sessions, the Zero Degree 0° is tailor-made for you. Its self-padding design and dual-rail structure ensure that each keystroke is not only smooth but also absorbed sound, offering a soft and elastic feel with minimal noise. Thus, your decision should reflect whether you value tactile feedback and sound or prioritize discretion and tranquility in your typing experience.

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