HMX Cheese vs. Dareu Holly
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Dareu Holly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch, it's important to consider the unique features that each switch has to offer. The HMX Cheese switch is best known for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, with a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. These ultra-light switches are lighter than 90% of all switches, providing a truly unique typing sensation. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly switch stands out for its medium 50g actuation force and distinctive sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements. This switch caters to users looking for a balanced typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the Dareu Holly differ significantly in terms of the top housing. The Cheese features a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the nylon plastic. This absorption of sound creates a duller and rounder sound, which may appeal to those looking for a quieter typing experience. In contrast, the Holly's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those who prefer a more distinct typing sound.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Cheese and the Holly utilize nylon material. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics. The duller and rounder sound created by the nylon bottom housing is consistent across both keyboards, providing a uniform typing experience in terms of bottom-out sound and feel. This similarity in the bottom housing material showcases the reliability and effectiveness of nylon in producing a satisfying typing sound.
Ultimately, the choice between the HMX Cheese and the Dareu Holly will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. While the Cheese offers a softer and more muted typing experience with its nylon top and bottom housings, the Holly provides a sharper and clearer sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing. Both keyboards deliver a deep and full sound due to the nylon bottom housing, ensuring a consistent typing experience in terms of bottom-out sound and feel. Whether you prioritize a deeper, fuller sound or prefer a sharper, crisper sound, these keyboards offer distinct options to cater to your typing preferences.
Weight
The actuation force of the HMX Cheese linear switch is lighter at 43 grams compared to the Dareu Holly tactile switch which is 50 grams. This means that the Cheese switch will require less force to trigger a keystroke. As for bottom out force, the Cheese switch requires 46 grams while the force for the Holly switch is unknown. This difference in bottom out force may result in a slightly different typing experience, with the Cheese switch possibly feeling more consistent throughout the keystroke. Overall, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the HMX Cheese switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the Dareu Holly switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing habits.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, making it shorter than the Dareu Holly tactile switch which has a travel distance of 4mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Cheese being slightly shorter than average and the Holly falling on the longer side. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Cheese, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Holly. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
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
The HMX Cheese linear switch definitely stands out in terms of sound, offering a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature that is lighter than majority of switches. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly tactile switch provides a unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, creating a balanced and distinctive typing experience that caters to a different set of users. When it comes to feel, the specific qualities of the Cheese and Holly switches are unknown. However, both switches are designed to provide a smooth typing experience, with the Cheese being ultra-light and the Holly offering a medium 50g actuation force.
Overall, while the HMX Cheese and Dareu Holly switches offer different sound profiles and actuation forces, they both aim to provide a satisfying and unique typing experience for users. Whether you prefer the lighter, clacky sound of the Cheese or the chirpy, clacky sound of the Holly, both switches are sure to enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch, it ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a smooth typing experience with a clacky sound signature, then the HMX Cheese switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you're looking for a tactile typing experience with a unique chirpy and clacky sound profile at a slightly higher actuation force, then the Dareu Holly switch would be more suitable for your needs. Consider your typing habits, preferences, and desired sound profile to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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