HMX Cloud - 63.5g vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the KTT Mallo offer distinct typing experiences to cater to different preferences. The HMX Cloud - 63.5g is a linear switch known for its bouncy and clacky sound profile, providing a bright typing experience that appeals to enthusiasts. With a creamy and high-pitched feel, this heavier variant offers a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo is a tactile switch that exudes subtlety and finesse in design. Offering a gentle tactility and a medium-light typing feel, the Mallo strikes a balanced chord for typists. Its neutral sound signature ensures versatility in various typing environments. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g and the KTT Mallo differ significantly in terms of the type of plastic used. The Cloud - 63.5g features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Mallo's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound because of its stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound profile. While both materials are effective in their own right, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound quality and aesthetic considerations.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of both the Cloud - 63.5g and the Mallo is made of nylon. This material provides a deeper and fuller sound profile as it is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of typing sound and feel due to the shared nylon bottom housing. The consistency in housing material between the two switches may appeal to individuals who prefer a certain sound profile associated with nylon, creating a familiar typing experience regardless of the specific switch model being used.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the choice of housing material between nylon and polycarbonate can greatly impact the sound and feel of a switch. The split between the top and bottom housings means that each material brings distinct qualities to the switch, affecting both the bottom-out sound and feel as well as the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, users may find that the nylon top and bottom housing of the Cloud - 63.5g provide a uniform typing experience, while the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing of the Mallo offer a mix of crispness and depth in sound. Whether one prefers a duller and rounder sound or a clearer and sharper sound, the housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience.
Weight
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch has an actuation force of 56 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the KTT Mallo tactile switch has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which categorizes it as medium-light. The Cloud - 63.5g requires a slightly heavier force to initiate a keystroke compared to the Mallo, but they both provide a satisfying typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Mallo switch, which allows for longer typing sessions with less strain on the fingers. On the other hand, the Cloud - 63.5g is better suited for users who appreciate a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch with 3.9mm and the KTT Mallo tactile switch with 4.0mm, the Cloud switch has a slightly shorter travel distance. The Mallo switch has a more traditional travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a deeper key press feel. However, the Cloud switch's shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Overall, both switches provide a good range of travel distances, with one slightly shorter than the other, catering to different preferences and needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Mallo has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mallo for $4.40.
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
In terms of sound, the Cloud - 63.5g switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy a sharp and bright typing experience. On the other hand, the Mallo switch boasts a neutral and subdued sound signature, providing a versatile option that strikes a balance between not being too dominant or too subtle. Depending on your preference for sound, you can choose between the more pronounced sound of the Cloud - 63.5g or the understated sound of the Mallo.
When it comes to feel, the Cloud - 63.5g switch is known for its bouncy and creamy typing experience, offering a spring-like feedback and smooth keystrokes. In contrast, the Mallo switch provides a feathery and mild typing feel, requiring little exertion and offering a gentle typing experience suitable for extended use. Additionally, the Mallo switch features a stepped design, providing a more subtle tactile feedback compared to the bounciness of the Cloud - 63.5g. Depending on your preference for typing feel, you can opt for the lively and creamy sensation of the Cloud - 63.5g or the lighter and gentler feel of the Mallo.
Overall, the Cloud - 63.5g switch and the Mallo switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a sharper sound profile and a bouncy typing experience, the Cloud - 63.5g switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral sound with a feathery and mild typing feel, the Mallo switch could be the better option. Both switches provide unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on your personal preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you're looking for a bright and clacky typing experience with a medium-heavy feel, the Cloud - 63.5g switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a subtle and gentle tactile feedback with a medium-light typing feel, the Mallo switch is the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you enjoy a heavier and more pronounced typing experience or a lighter and more subtle one. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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