HMX Cheese vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the HMX Cheese and the Gateron Type S, both linear switches. The HMX Cheese is renowned for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, offering a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. These ultra-light switches are lighter than 90% of all switches, providing a unique typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S, from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash," offers a different experience with its 65g bottom-out weight, catering to those who prefer a weightier keystroke. The sound signature of the Type S strikes a pleasing balance, leaning towards a neutral yet deeper acoustic experience. While both switches have their strengths, such as smoothness and sound for the HMX Cheese and weight and balanced sound for the Gateron Type S, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in both the HMX Cheese and Gateron Type S switches are identical, as they both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when the keys are pressed. With both switches sharing the same housing material, users can expect similar sound profiles and typing experiences when using either the HMX Cheese or Gateron Type S switches.
While the housing materials of the HMX Cheese and Gateron Type S switches are the same, the impact of these materials will differ based on the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing of a switch has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, affecting the overall typing experience when the keys are pressed down. On the other hand, the top housing plays a more substantial role in the sound produced when the key is released. Despite these differences, the use of nylon in both the top and bottom housings ensures that users will still experience a similar level of comfort and sound quality when using either switch.
Overall, the utilization of nylon as the housing material for both the HMX Cheese and Gateron Type S switches provides users with a consistent and reliable typing experience. The softer nature of nylon allows for a quieter and more muted sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience by reducing the noise produced when typing. Whether it's the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound or the top housing affecting the sound upon key release, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile with both switches, making them a great choice for those seeking a high-quality typing experience.
Weight
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gateron Type S linear switch. The Cheese requires 43 grams of force to actuate and 46 grams to bottom out, making it a more lightweight option. In contrast, the Type S has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. The difference in weight between the two switches caters to different preferences - the Cheese is suited for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Type S is ideal for users who enjoy a more weighted keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron Type S linear switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Cheese switch may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Type S switch may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Gateron Type S comes in at $4.70 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 Cheese linear switch provides a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy typing experience, making each keystroke sound distinctive and enjoyable for users. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S linear switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience without sacrificing tactile feedback. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps being used, so it is important to consider these factors when choosing the right switch for your needs.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the HMX Cheese linear switch is renowned for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, offering users a light touch and effortless keystrokes that make typing a breeze. Meanwhile, the Gateron Type S linear switch provides a weightier keystroke with a 65g bottom-out force, catering to individuals who prefer a bit more resistance in their switches. Both switches offer a unique feel that will appeal to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel.
In conclusion, the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Cheese switch provides a more distinct and lively sound profile with a lighter touch, the Type S switch offers a quieter sound with a weightier keystroke. Both switches excel in their own right, and users are likely to get a similar level of quality and performance from either switch depending on their individual preferences. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal typing style and what qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, consider your preference for bottom-out force and sound profile. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with a satisfying clacky sound, then the HMX Cheese switch with its 46g bottom-out force may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a weightier keystroke with a more neutral and deeper sound profile, then the Gateron Type S switch with its 65g bottom-out force may be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the sound profile that best aligns with your needs.
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