HMX Cheese vs. Gateron CM
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Gateron CM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cheese and Gateron CM both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The HMX Cheese stands out for its unparalleled smoothness and ultra-light feel, providing a satisfying clacky and poppy typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron CM breaks away from convention with its full nylon housing, delivering a deeper sound signature and a bouncy typing sensation due to its dual-staged spring design. Each switch offers a different typing experience, with the HMX Cheese focusing on lightness and crispiness, while the Gateron CM emphasizes a richer sound and smoothness. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the HMX Cheese and the Gateron CM utilize nylon as the material for their top and bottom switch housings. This commonality means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and overall feel. Nylon's softer composition compared to other plastics allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches made with this material. This creates a duller and rounder sound that is distinct from switches made with harder plastics.
Despite both switches using nylon for their housing material, differences may still arise based on the design and construction of each switch. The distribution of qualities between the top and bottom housings can impact the overall sound and feel of the switch when in use. The bottom housing, for example, may have a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing may affect the sound when a key is released. These nuances in design can lead to slight variations in typing experience between the HMX Cheese and the Gateron CM.
In conclusion, the choice of nylon as the housing material for both the HMX Cheese and the Gateron CM switches results in a common typing experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. While similarities exist in terms of sound and feel, differences in design and construction can lead to slight variations in the overall typing experience between the two switches. Users may find that the impact of the top and bottom housings on sound and feel varies, highlighting the importance of considering all aspects of switch design when selecting a mechanical keyboard switch for personal preference and typing style.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Gateron CM linear switch, it is evident that the Cheese switch is lighter in both regards. The Cheese switch requires an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the CM switch has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy. For users who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Cheese switch would be the more suitable option, allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the CM switch provides a stronger push feel, resulting in a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Cheese linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the travel distance of the Gateron CM linear switch is slightly longer at 3.6 mm. While the difference may be minimal, it can still impact the overall feel and performance of the switch. In general, a shorter travel distance like that of the Cheese switch may be favored by gamers looking for quick response times, while a slightly longer travel distance like that of the CM switch may provide a more substantial feel to the keystrokes. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific use case, as both options offer a relatively short travel distance compared to the more traditional 4.0 mm distance.
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 Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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 HMX Cheese linear switch is praised for its satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, while the Gateron CM linear switch offers a deeper and richer sound profile with bassy, thocky, and low-pitched characteristics. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences, with the Cheese offering a lighter sound and the CM presenting a fuller, more bass-heavy tone. The final sound outcome will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build and keycap materials.
Moving on to the feel, the HMX Cheese switch is known for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, while the Gateron CM switch provides a buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless typing sensation. The Cheese switch offers a light and smooth typing experience, whereas the CM switch stands out for its dual-staged spring design, providing a bouncy feel with a focus on effortless gliding through each keystroke. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the Cheese emphasizing smoothness and the CM highlighting a more dynamic typing feel.
Overall, both the HMX Cheese and Gateron CM linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cheese excels in providing a light and satisfying clicky sound with unparalleled smoothness, the CM delivers a deeper and richer sound profile with a focus on buttery and polished typing sensations. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Rest assured, with either switch, you can expect a high-quality and enjoyable typing journey.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the HMX Cheese linear switch or the Gateron CM linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference for typing experience. If you prefer a lighter switch with a satisfyingly clacky sound and smooth typing experience, the HMX Cheese switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a deeper sound profile and bouncy typing experience, the Gateron CM switch could be the one to go for. Consider your typing style, sound preference, and desired level of key resistance when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience.
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