HMX Cheese vs. Gateron Ink Box Black
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Gateron Ink Box Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cheese and Gateron Ink Box Black both offer unique advantages that cater to different preferences. The HMX Cheese is celebrated for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, delivering a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature that stands out from the rest. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black is renowned for its incredibly smooth and creamy typing feel, with a sound signature reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. While the Cheese is lighter than 90% of all switches, the Ink Box Black falls into the categories of 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics, making them appealing options for different types of users. 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
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the Gateron Ink Box Black both offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The Cheese's nylon top and bottom housing provide a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black's proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing produce a pointed and higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. While both switches offer different sound profiles, they both excel in providing a satisfying typing experience.
Despite the differences in sound profiles, both the HMX Cheese and the Gateron Ink Box Black prioritize creating a unique and enjoyable typing experience. The use of Nylon in the Cheese switch results in a duller and rounder sound when typing, emphasizing a deeper sound profile. On the other hand, the proprietary INK blend used in the Ink Box Black offers a more pointed and high-pitched sound that is still satisfying and clacky. Both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in enhancing the overall typing feel and sound.
While the housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the Gateron Ink Box Black differ in their sound profiles, they both showcase the impact that the housing material can have on the overall typing experience. The Nylon used in the Cheese switch absorbs more sound and creates a deeper sound profile, while the INK blend in the Ink Box Black produces a higher-pitched and satisfying clacky sound. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, highlighting the importance of housing materials in the design and functionality of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, it is evident that the Cheese switch is lighter in terms of both forces compared to the Ink Box Black switch. The Cheese switch has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the Ink Box Black switch requires a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Cheese switch make it ideal for users looking for a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions. On the other hand, the heavier forces of the Ink Box Black switch provide a more substantial and tactile typing experience, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, the choice between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for gaming applications where faster response times are desired. Gamers looking for a slightly shorter travel distance may prefer the Cheese switch, while those wanting a touch more depth in their keystrokes may lean towards the Ink Box Black switch. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, providing users with a satisfying typing 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 Box Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Black for $7.65.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Cheese linear switch offers a unique and satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature that stands out among other switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch produces a sound reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken, giving it a distinct and interesting auditory experience. Both switches provide a different sound profile, so choosing between them would depend on personal preference and the overall sound you are aiming for in your mechanical keyboard setup.
In terms of feel, the HMX Cheese linear switch is known for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, offering a unique tactile feel that enhances the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch provides an incredibly smooth and creamy typing experience, with a silky and polished feel that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches offer a smooth typing experience, but the choice between them would ultimately come down to personal preference and the type of typing feel you prefer.
Overall, both the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch offer unique sound profiles and exceptional typing experiences. While the Cheese switch provides a clacky and poppy sound with unparalleled smoothness, the Ink Box Black switch delivers a creamy sound with a silky and polished feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel, so trying out both switches in different typing scenarios may help you determine which one suits your needs best.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you prioritize a lighter bottom out force, a satisfying clacky sound, and an ultra-smooth typing experience, the HMX Cheese switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a creamy sound reminiscent of a spray paint can, and a silky smooth typing feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to personal preference and the typing experience you value most.
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