HMX Cheese vs. HMX Gravel
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the HMX Gravel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Cheese and HMX Gravel stand out as two exemplary linear switches that offer distinct yet appealing experiences to typists and gamers alike. The HMX Cheese switches are celebrated for their unparalleled smoothness and a clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, making them an excellent choice for those who prioritize an ultra-light feel and a unique auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the HMX Gravel switches present a refined typing experience characterized by a medium-light actuation force, providing a responsive and effortless feel, ideal for users who enjoy a slightly more balanced approach to keystrokes without sacrificing smoothness. Both switches cater to specific preferences: the Cheese excels in delivering an engaging sound profile and extreme lightness, while the Gravel strikes a harmonious balance between lightness and responsiveness. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the HMX Gravel, we see a marked difference in the top housing while the bottom housings are the same. The Cheese utilizes a nylon top housing which provides a deeper sound profile, contributing a rounded and fuller auditory experience. This quality is primarily due to nylon’s softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. In contrast, the Gravel features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper and crisper sound profile. This distinction is important as it suggests that while the Cheese may deliver a warmth in typing sounds, the Gravel is likely to yield a more vibrant and resonant auditory feedback, especially when utilizing RGB lighting due to the translucency of polycarbonate.
Despite the differences in their top housing materials, both the HMX Cheese and the HMX Gravel share nylon as their bottom housing material. As described, nylon contributes to a duller and rounder sound profile regardless of the switch type. This similarity means that while the top housing influences the higher frequencies and clarity of sound, the bottom housing mitigates those qualities with a deeper and fuller resonance. Consequently, when engaging with either switch, users can expect a consistent sound dampening effect from the nylon bottom, leading to a more subdued bottom-out sound when keys are pressed.
Ultimately, the way the two switches interact with the user is a duality of characteristics stemming from their different top housings and the shared nylon bottom. The Cheese’s ability to absorb sound leads to an overall softer feel when typing, benefiting those who prefer quieter interactions. Conversely, the Gravel, with its polycarbonate top, offers a more lively acoustic output that may appeal to users looking for an interactive feedback experience while actively engaging with RGB features. Therefore, the combined effects of both housing materials lead to distinct sound profiles, but the influence of the shared nylon bottom ensures that a common undercurrent of sound quality persists across both switch models.
Weight
The HMX Cheese and HMX Gravel linear switches both offer a light typing experience, but they differ slightly in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cheese has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it slightly lighter overall. In contrast, the Gravel requires a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that while both switches are relatively light, the Cheese is the lighter option, making it potentially more comfortable for extended periods of typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Gravel, with its heavier forces, may provide a more substantial feel for users who prefer a stronger push while typing. Thus, while both switches have their merits, the choice ultimately depends on personal preference regarding the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese linear switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch both have an identical travel distance of 3.5 mm, meaning that the distance they travel from the top to the bottom when pressed is the same. This similarity ensures that users will experience comparable feedback and actuation with both switches, providing a consistent feel when typing or gaming. As a result, whether one chooses the Cheese or the Gravel, the tactile response and keystroke depth will be consistent, allowing for a uniform typing experience regardless of the switch used.
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 HMX Gravel has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gravel for $2.99.
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 HMX Cheese linear switch stands out with its clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, delivering an engaging auditory experience that many users find appealing. This vibrant sound profile adds a unique charm to the typing experience, making each keystroke feel lively. In contrast, while the specific sound characteristics of the HMX Gravel switch are not mentioned, it is known for its smooth and refined typing feel, which suggests that it may produce a more subdued sound compared to the Cheese. However, the overall sound experience of both switches can be influenced by factors like the type of keyboard plate and keycaps used, so users might still achieve satisfying acoustic results with either option, depending on their build.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cheese switch is recognized for its unparalleled smoothness and ultra-light actuation, being lighter than 90% of all switches. This results in an effortless typing experience that can provide a great sensation with each keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Gravel switch also emphasizes smoothness but features a medium-light actuation force that leans towards the lighter side, making it responsive and comfortable for extended typing sessions. While the Cheese may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch, the Gravel offers a balance that could cater to users looking for a bit more resistance without sacrificing smoothness.
Overall, both the HMX Cheese and Gravel linear switches highlight exceptional smoothness, yet they cater to different preferences in terms of sound and actuation force. The Cheese provides a lively auditory experience paired with an ultra-light feel, ideal for those who enjoy a more dynamic typing environment. Conversely, the Gravel offers a refined experience that balances ease of use with a slightly heavier touch, making it suitable for a diverse range of users. Depending on your priorities—be it sound, actuation force, or tactile responsiveness—you’ll find that either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience, reinforcing the idea that the perfect choice aligns with your personal typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the HMX Cheese and HMX Gravel linear switches, your personal preferences and typing habits will be crucial in making the right decision. If you enjoy a lighter, more effortless keystroke combined with a vibrant sound profile that delivers a clacky and poppy response, the HMX Cheese switches are the ideal choice for you. Their unparalleled smoothness and crispy auditory feedback create an engaging typing experience that can be particularly enjoyable for those who relish a lively sound while typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly firmer bottom out force with a refined, smooth feel, the HMX Gravel switches might be better suited to your tastes. They provide a more balanced typing experience that still leans on the lighter side yet offers a satisfying responsiveness, making them a great option for extended typing sessions or tasks requiring conscious keystroke accuracy. Ultimately, consider your typing style, whether you prioritize sound and vibrancy or a smooth and refined touch, to choose the switch that aligns best with your mechanical keyboard experience.
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