HMX Cheese vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cheese and the Outemu Milk Blue are two popular options that offer different typing experiences. The HMX Cheese is a linear switch that is praised for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience. With a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, these ultra-light switches are lighter than 90% of all switches, making them a favorite among users who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue is a clicky switch that offers a different tactile feedback with each key press. While not much is known about its specific characteristics, clicky switches are known for their audible feedback and tactile bump, providing a more satisfying typing experience for users who enjoy the sound of each key press. 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
43g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In terms of housing materials, the HMX Cheese and Outemu Milk Blue switches both use nylon for their bottom housings. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon plastic. However, the top housing materials of the two switches differ, with the Cheese using nylon and the Milk Blue using polycarbonate. The polycarbonate top housing of the Milk Blue creates a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the duller and rounder sound produced by the nylon top housing of the Cheese. This contrast in top housing materials can lead to differences in overall typing experience and sound quality between the two switches.
While both the HMX Cheese and Outemu Milk Blue switches feature nylon bottom housings, their top housing materials set them apart in terms of sound profile. The Nylon top housing of the Cheese contributes to a softer and more absorbent sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Milk Blue produces a sharper and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting, giving the Milk Blue a more aesthetically pleasing appearance compared to the Cheese. This difference in top housing materials showcases how the choice of material can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound quality of a switch.
In conclusion, the choice of housing material in a switch plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience it offers. While the HMX Cheese and Outemu Milk Blue switches share nylon bottom housings, their differences lie in the top housing materials. The nylon top housing of the Cheese provides a softer and rounder sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Milk Blue delivers a sharper and more resonant sound. These variations in housing materials demonstrate how even subtle differences can result in distinct typing experiences, making it important for users to consider their preferences when selecting a switch for their mechanical keyboard.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch reveals some differences in weight. The Cheese has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Milk Blue's 50 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with the Cheese. However, the Cheese also has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 46 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience when fully pressed. In contrast, the bottom out force of the Milk Blue is unknown, so it is unclear how it compares in that aspect. When considering weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Cheese for longer typing sessions, while others may appreciate the stronger push feel of the Milk Blue for a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Milk Blue has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cheese. A 4.0mm travel distance is more traditional, offering a more recognizable key press feel, while a 3.5mm travel distance is slightly shorter and can appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. However, some may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt, preferring the more substantial feel of a longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and what type of typing or gaming experience is desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $4.29.
The Outemu Milk Blue comes in at $3.10 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
Overall, the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch offer distinct experiences for mechanical keyboard users. The Cheese switch stands out for its smoothness and light actuation, providing a unique and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Milk Blue switch offers a distinct clicky sound, adding a tactile element to typing. Both switches have their own merits, with the Cheese switch excelling in smoothness and the Milk Blue switch standing out for its audible feedback. Depending on personal preferences in sound and feel, users can choose between the two switches to tailor their typing experience to their liking. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and are worth considering for those looking to enhance their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value a smooth and light typing experience with a satisfying sound profile, the HMX Cheese switch may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky and tactile typing experience, the Outemu Milk Blue switch might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for you as you type.
Mentioned in this article
