HMX Cheese vs. HMX Cloud - 50g

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference, and the HMX Cheese and HMX Cloud - 50g are two compelling linear options that offer distinct typing experiences. The HMX Cheese is celebrated for its unparalleled smoothness and crisp sound signature, delivering a clacky, poppy feel that many typists adore. This ultra-light switch, being lighter than 90% of all other options, caters to those who favor swift keystrokes and a responsive feel. On the other hand, the HMX Cloud - 50g stands out with its similarly clacky sound profile, but offers a silky smoothness that enthusiasts appreciate in a slightly heavier feel. While both switches provide superior typing experiences, the Cheese leans into an ultra-light and lively engagement, while the Cloud - 50g brings a rich, tactile quality that some users may prefer. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Cheese Linear

HMX Cloud - 50g Linear

$5.50

$3.79 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Cheese and the HMX Cloud - 50g utilize nylon as their primary housing material, both in their top and bottom housings. This similarity in material choice means that users will experience comparable acoustic characteristics when typing. Nylon is known for its softer properties, which contribute to a deeper and more rounded sound profile compared to harder plastics. Consequently, this shared material choice ensures that both switches will produce a sound that is not only pleasing to the ear but also more muted, as nylon effectively absorbs sound. Users can expect a similar auditory experience and tactile response when typing, regardless of which switch they choose.

In examining the details further, the impact of the nylon housing on both switches is particularly noteworthy. The design of the switches—whereby the bottom housing greatly influences bottom-out sound while the top housing affects the sound upon release—means that the consistent use of nylon in both HMX models leads to a harmonious sound profile. As users engage with either switch, they will enjoy a satisfying keystroke that feels cushioned and controlled. The depth and fullness of sound provided by Nylon will resonate similarly in both models, ensuring that users do not sacrifice quality whether they opt for the Cheese or the Cloud - 50g.

While both the HMX Cheese and HMX Cloud - 50g share identical housing materials, it is important to note the potential variations in switch feel that may arise from other manufacturing differences or design elements beyond just the housing. However, since both switches are constructed with the same nylon material for both the top and bottom housings, users can anticipate a coherent and enjoyable typing experience characterized by the benefits of nylon. Overall, one can confidently infer that similar results in sound and feel will be achieved with either switch, making them appealing options for enthusiasts who appreciate the qualities of nylon in switch construction.

Weight

The HMX Cheese linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch both offer lightweight characteristics, appealing to users who prioritize extended typing comfort and prolonged gaming sessions. The Cheese switch has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the Cloud switch features a slightly lower actuation force of 42 grams and a higher bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Cheese switch marginally heavier in terms of actuation force, but both switches remain on the lighter end of the spectrum. The Cloud switch has a heavier bottom out force compared to the Cheese, providing a more substantial feel when bottoming out. In summary, if you're seeking a lighter overall sensation while typing, you may prefer the Cloud switch, while those who appreciate a stronger feel when pressing all the way down may lean towards the Cheese switch.

Travel distance

The HMX Cheese linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch differ in their travel distances, with the Cheese featuring a travel distance of 3.5 mm and the Cloud - 50g having a longer travel distance of 3.9 mm. This makes the Cheese the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, as shorter travel distances often facilitate faster key presses. Conversely, the Cloud - 50g, with its longer 3.9 mm travel distance, may provide a more substantial feel for users who prefer a deeper, more tactile typing experience. While both switches serve distinct preferences—rapid response versus hearty depth—the difference in travel distance suggests that users will have varying feedback depending on the switch chosen.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The HMX Cheese linear switch delivers a unique auditory experience characterized by a clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. This makes the typing experience particularly enjoyable for those who appreciate a more dynamic auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Cloud - 50g also exhibits a clacky sound profile, catering to enthusiasts who favor a bright typing experience. While both switches share clacky qualities, the overall sound can still vary depending on the board and keycaps used, adding an element of customization to each user’s setup.

When considering the feel, the HMX Cheese switches are celebrated for their unparalleled smoothness, offering a pristine typing experience that many users find addictive. The ultra-light design of the Cheese switches enhances this sensation, making every keystroke glide effortlessly. Conversely, the HMX Cloud - 50g switch is known for its silky smooth feel, providing a similarly enjoyable tactile experience. Both switches offer a light touch responsive nature, ensuring that users who appreciate smoothness in a linear switch will find satisfaction in either option.

In summary, both the HMX Cheese and the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switches cater to enthusiasts seeking smoothness and clacky sound profiles. While the Cheese leans towards a more pronounced sound with its poppy and crispy notes, the Cloud - 50g presents a lighter yet bright typing experience. Ultimately, you can expect a nuanced yet enjoyable typing experience from either switch, allowing users to choose based on individual sound preferences without sacrificing the smoothness and responsiveness that characterize both options.

Conclusion

To conclude, selecting between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and the experience you’re seeking. If you gravitate towards a switch that offers unparalleled smoothness and a satisfying clacky, poppy sound, the Cheese switch is an excellent choice. Its light 46-gram actuation force allows for effortless typing, making it ideal for extended sessions or for those who prefer a feather-light touch. On the other hand, if you desire a slightly firmer feel with a 50-gram bottom-out force, the HMX Cloud - 50g switch might be more to your liking. It still delivers a delightful clacky sound and provides a silky smooth experience, appealing to enthusiasts who prefer a bit more resistance while typing. Both switches cater to distinct preferences; the Cheese provides an airy and light experience, while the Cloud - 50g offers a balanced feel that still maintains a bright and crisp sound. In the end, your choice should align with what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for your individual typing style.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Cheese Linear

$5.50

$3.79 per 10

Learn more

HMX Cloud - 50g Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more