HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that stand out are the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow, both of which are linear switches. The Cloud - 63.5g is favored for its clacky sound profile and heavier actuation force, providing a bright typing experience for enthusiasts who appreciate a bouncy and creamy feel. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is known for its budget-friendly nature and polished design, offering a high-pitched clacky sound and a slightly bouncy feel for a resonant typing experience. Each switch has its unique qualities that may cater to different preferences and needs. 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
56g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
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
15.4mm long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow, we can see that they both use nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches made with nylon bottom housings. Both switches will likely provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when it comes to the bottom housing.
However, when it comes to the top housing, the Cloud - 63.5g features nylon while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow utilizes polycarbonate. The polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the duller and rounder sound of nylon. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the clear housing of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow allows for the utilization of RGB lighting, making it aesthetically appealing for those interested in customizable lighting options.
Overall, the choice between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal. While both switches offer nylon bottom housings for a deep and full sound experience, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow stands out with its polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and crisper sound profile. Whether you prefer a duller and rounder sound or a more clear and resonant sound, these housing materials play a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience provided by each switch.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, the Cloud - 63.5g is lighter in actuation force at 56 grams compared to the G Pro 3.0 Yellow at 50 grams. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Cloud - 63.5g requires a force of 63.5 grams while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow needs 67 grams, making the G Pro 3.0 Yellow the heavier option in this aspect. Both switches fall under the medium-heavy category, providing a balance between a light typing experience and a more substantial push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preference, with lighter switches being more suitable for longer typing sessions and heavier switches offering a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, the Cloud - 63.5g has a shorter travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Cloud - 63.5g falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, which may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a slightly deeper key press, which may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for $2.78.
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g comes in at $3.50 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 - 63.5g linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a crisp and bright typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch also produces a high-pitched sound but adds a resonant quality for a clean and sharp auditory experience. Both switches cater to those who prefer a more pronounced sound while typing, with slight differences in terms of pitch and resonance.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cloud - 63.5g switch offers a bouncy and creamy typing experience, with a spring-like feedback sensation and a smooth, buttery feel. Similarly, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch provides a polished and creamy typing experience, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches aim to deliver a satisfying tactile experience, with variations in the specific feel of the key presses.
In conclusion, both the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cloud - 63.5g switch leans towards a brighter and clackier sound profile paired with a bouncy feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch provides a higher-pitched sound with a polished and creamy typing experience. Depending on personal preference for sound and tactile feedback, either switch can offer a delightful typing experience. Ultimately, both switches are designed to cater to enthusiasts looking for a specific typing sensation and sound profile, providing reliable performance and quality in their respective categories.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a bright, clacky sound profile with a silky smooth typing experience, the Cloud - 63.5g may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a higher-pitched, clacky sound with a bouncy and polished typing feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow could be the switch that suits your style. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences for sound and feel when typing.
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