Kailh Box White vs. HMX Cheese
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the HMX Cheese switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Box White clicky switch to the HMX Cheese linear switch, it's clear that each offers unique advantages depending on the user's preferences. The Box White switch provides a satisfying audio feedback with its crisp and crunchy sound, making it ideal for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Cheese switch offers an incredibly smooth and light typing experience, with a distinct clacky sound signature that sets it apart from other switches. 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
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
46g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box White and the HMX Cheese, one key difference is the material used for the top housing. The Box White features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Cheese utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This contrast in materials leads to a noticeable difference in the sound produced by each switch, making the choice between the two a matter of personal preference based on sound profile.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Box White and the Cheese feature nylon bottom housings. This makes for a more consistent typing experience across both switches, as the qualities of the nylon material remain constant. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, with the softer plastic absorbing more sound and creating a duller, rounder sound. While the top housing may vary between the two switches, the similar bottom housing material ensures a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
Overall, while the top housing material of the Kailh Box White and the HMX Cheese differs, the nylon bottom housing provides a commonality between the two switches. The differences in sound profile between the polycarbonate top housing of the Box White and the nylon top housing of the Cheese offer distinct typing experiences, with the Box White producing a sharper, crisper sound and the Cheese offering a deeper, fuller sound. However, the similarity in the nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches share a consistent typing feel and sound quality when it comes to bottoming out keys. Ultimately, the choice between the Box White and Cheese will depend on individual preferences for sound profiles and typing experiences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom-out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch, we can see that the Box White requires a heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Cheese's lighter 43 grams. Similarly, the Box White has a higher bottom-out force of 60 grams, while the Cheese has a lower bottom-out force of 46 grams. This means that the Box White provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, while the Cheese offers a lighter touch for those who prefer a gentler keystroke. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference - whether one prefers a lighter feel for longer typing sessions or a heavier, more satisfying push.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it slightly longer than the HMX Cheese linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular especially for gamers looking for faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be very noticeable in practical use. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for the feel and responsiveness of the key press.
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 $3.79.
The Kailh Box White comes in at $2.76 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 Kailh Box White clicky switch offers a unique experience with a resonant and high-pitched profile, reminiscent of stepping on crunchy autumn leaves. This switch provides a satisfying auditory feedback that some users find immersive and sharp. On the other hand, the HMX Cheese linear switch is known for its smoothness and pristine typing experience, boasting a clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. While specific descriptors are not provided for the Cheese switch, it offers a distinct sound profile that sets it apart from other switches on the market.
Moving on to feel, the Kailh Box White switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. This polished finish results in reduced friction and a sleek key travel, enhancing the overall feel of the switch. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available about the feel of the HMX Cheese linear switch. However, based on its reputation for smoothness and ultra-light actuation, it is likely that users can expect a comfortable and easy typing experience with this switch.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White clicky switch and HMX Cheese linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and potentially feel. The Box White provides a resonant and high-pitched auditory feedback, along with a polished feel for smooth typing. On the other hand, the Cheese switch boasts a unique clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, and likely provides a smooth and comfortable typing experience. Depending on whether you prefer a clicky switch with a tactile feel or a linear switch with ultra-light actuation, both switches offer their own unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Kailh Box White clicky switch or the HMX Cheese linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a crisp and tactile feedback with a medium bottom out force, then the Box White switch with its "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch might be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter keypress with a smooth and satisfying typing experience, the HMX Cheese switch with its ultra-light 46-gram bottom out force and unparalleled smoothness could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the sound and feel that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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