Gateron Aliaz vs. HMX Cheese
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX Cheese switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX Cheese mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that they offer unique characteristics catering to different preferences. The Aliaz switch is ideal for quiet environments such as the office, providing a medium-heavy weight for a substantial keystroke feel and pronounced typing feedback without noise. On the other hand, the HMX Cheese switch offers unparalleled smoothness and a pristine typing experience, with an ultra-light design that produces a satisfying clacky sound signature. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different users based on their preferences. 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
60g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
46g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX Cheese, it is evident that they both utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Aliaz features a polycarbonate top housing, which gives a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Cheese utilizes a nylon top housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate of the Aliaz is better suited for RGB lighting due to its translucency, whereas the nylon of the Cheese absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound.
When it comes to the bottom housings, the differences between the two switches continue to show. The Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to the sharp and clear sound profile of the switch, while the Cheese's nylon bottom housing enhances the depth and fullness of the sound. These materials affect the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed down, with the Aliaz providing a more resonant feel and sound due to its stiffness compared to the duller sound produced by the Cheese's softer nylon material. The split between the qualities of the top and bottom housings emphasizes the importance of both components in shaping the overall sound profile of the switch.
In essence, while the Gateron Aliaz and HMX Cheese switches differ in their choice of housing materials, they both contribute to creating a unique sound profile for typing enthusiasts. The use of polycarbonate and nylon in the top and bottom housings of each switch plays a pivotal role in shaping the sound produced during typing. Whether it be the sharper and crisper sound of the Aliaz or the deeper and fuller sound of the Cheese, both switches offer distinct options for individuals seeking a tailored typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference in sound and feel, with each offering a unique acoustic profile based on their housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch, we can see significant differences. The Aliaz switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, providing users with a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Cheese switch features a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, allowing for a more effortless typing experience. This makes the Cheese switch more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch, while the Aliaz switch is ideal for those who favor a more robust keystroke. The difference in weight between the two switches caters to different preferences, with lighter switches being better for extended typing sessions and heavier switches offering a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on the user's personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Aliaz tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Cheese linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Cheese switch allows for quicker key presses and response times, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Aliaz switch provides a slightly deeper feel with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of key feel and responsiveness. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, but both can provide satisfactory results depending on individual taste.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
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 $3.99.
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 Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is best known for its muted sound, offering a softer and quieter typing experience compared to other switches. On the other hand, the HMX Cheese linear switch is known for its satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. While the Aliaz gives a more subtle sound profile, the Cheese provides a more distinct and audible typing feedback. Ultimately, the sound of each switch will also depend on the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is favored for its silky and polished typing experience, offering an exceptionally smooth and refined keypress. This switch minimizes resistance, providing a comfortable and fluid typing feel. However, details on the feel of the HMX Cheese linear switch are not provided. Without this information, we can only assume that the Cheese linear switch may offer a unique tactile experience or smooth key travel comparable to the Aliaz.
In conclusion, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch excels in providing a quiet and substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy weight, while the HMX Cheese linear switch stands out for its ultra-lightweight design and crisp sound signature. Both switches may offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in typing feedback. Depending on whether you prioritize sound or feel in your mechanical keyboard switch choice, you can achieve similar results with either the Aliaz or Cheese switch in terms of overall typing satisfaction.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch, consider the environment and typing preferences you have. If you need a quieter switch for an office setting and enjoy a medium-heavy feel with each keystroke, the Aliaz switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer an ultra-light switch with a crisp and clacky sound, the Cheese switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the sound, feel, and bottom out force that best suits your typing style and working environment. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, so choose wisely based on your individual preferences.
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