HMX Cheese vs. Gateron Ink Black V2
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cheese and Gateron Ink Black V2 both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The HMX Cheese is praised for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, with a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. Being lighter than most switches on the market, it provides a unique typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is a classic linear switch loved by the community for its smooth downstroke and rich clack. Described as low-pitched, bassy, chirpy, mild, and polished, this switch offers a different tactile experience. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the Gateron Ink Black V2 both offer unique sound profiles, but they do so in different ways. The Cheese's nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend housing produces a thinner, higher-pitched sound that is described as clacky, giving it a distinct sharpness without being overly harsh.
While both the Cheese and the Ink Black V2 utilize nylon as their top housing material, they offer contrasting sound experiences. The Cheese's nylon top housing contributes to its deep and full sound profile, providing a softer typing experience that absorbs more sound. In comparison, the Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend top housing produces a pointed and higher-pitched sound that is characterized as clacky, giving it a more pronounced and sharp sound without being overly harsh.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, both the Cheese's nylon and the Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend bring unique qualities to the switch. The bottom housing material has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, with the Cheese's nylon offering a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Ink Black V2's thinner, higher-pitched sound. The differences in sound profiles between the top and bottom housings of each switch contribute to their overall typing experience, providing users with varying levels of sound and feel based on the materials used.
Weight
The HMX Cheese linear switch features a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it a great option for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. The Cheese switch is ideal for those who want to type for longer periods or engage in extended gaming sessions, while the Ink Black V2 is better suited for users who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their respective force measurements, catering to different preferences for typing and gaming experiences. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches depends on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Ink Black V2 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cheese switch. The 3.5 mm travel distance of the Cheese switch may provide a slightly quicker response time, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Ink Black V2 may offer a more substantial keystroke feel for those who prefer a bit more depth when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing experience. Both switches, however, offer a reliable and consistent keystroke experience.
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 Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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 best known for its satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, making typing a delightful auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch offers a low-pitched, bassy sound profile that is rich and deep in tone, with a slight chirpiness that sets it apart from other switches. The sound produced by both switches is heavily influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps used, so experimentation with different setups may provide varied results.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cheese linear switch is celebrated for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, offering a light and effortless keystroke. Conversely, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, with a gentle keypress and a smooth, refined finish that reduces friction for a sleek feel. Both switches fall within the linear category, providing a straight downward keypress without any tactile bump or audible click, allowing for a consistent typing experience.
In conclusion, the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cheese switch excels in providing a clacky and satisfying sound with an ultra-light keystroke, the Ink Black V2 switch stands out for its deep, bassy sound profile and mild, polished feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing experience, either switch can deliver a delightful mechanical keyboard experience that is sure to impress newcomers to the hobby. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will be based on personal preference and the desired typing feel and sound profile.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter switch with a bottom out force of 46 grams and a smooth, crisp typing experience, the HMX Cheese switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a bottom out force of 70 grams and a classic smooth downstroke with a rich clack, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switch would be a great option. Additionally, consider the sound and feel characteristics of each switch to further narrow down your decision. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in typing experience and sound profile.
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