HMX Cheese vs. Gateron Jupiter Brown
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cheese and Gateron Jupiter Brown stand out as unique options with their own set of characteristics. The HMX Cheese is a linear switch that offers an unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience. With a satisfying clacky sound and ultra-light feel, these switches are perfect for those who prefer a light touch while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Brown is a tactile switch that combines tradition with innovation. Featuring a single-stage spring for a classic keystroke feel at a medium-heavy weight, these switches also offer high-precision molds and enhanced backlight effects. While the Cheese excels in providing a light and crisp typing experience, the Jupiter Brown offers a more tactile feedback and weightier keystrokes. 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
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
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
Spring steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches differ in terms of the top housing material used. The Cheese features a top housing made of nylon, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Jupiter Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer plastic composition. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the nylon top housing of the Cheese produces a duller and rounder sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Jupiter Brown delivers a more clear and resonant sound suitable for RGB lighting.
On the other hand, both the HMX Cheese and the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches share the same nylon bottom housing material. This classic housing material is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile when it comes to the bottom housing material. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a consistent duller and rounder sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience for users.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch plays a significant role in determining its sound profile and typing feel. While the HMX Cheese and Gateron Jupiter Brown switches differ in their top housing materials, they share similarities in their bottom housing material, resulting in a consistent sound experience at the bottom-out phase of typing. Whether it is the softer nylon of the Cheese or the stiffer polycarbonate of the Jupiter Brown, each housing material brings its own unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch with a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Cheese switch has a lighter 46 grams compared to the heavier 70 grams of the Jupiter Brown switch. The lighter actuation and bottom out force of the Cheese switch make it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the Jupiter Brown switch's heavier actuation and bottom out force provide a more substantial typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both options cater to different preferences, with the Cheese switch offering a lighter touch, while the Jupiter Brown switch provides a more weighted typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Jupiter Brown switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cheese switch. A 0.5 mm difference may not seem like much, but it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers who prioritize speed and quick response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Cheese switch, while those who enjoy a deeper key press may opt for the Jupiter Brown switch. Both switches offer unique travel distances that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for individual users.
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 Jupiter Brown comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 known for its satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature that is unique to ultra-light switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch offers a more traditional sound that blends well with its medium-heavy weight keypress. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be affected by the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the HMX Cheese linear switch is praised for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch offers a more mild and polished typing sensation, with a feel that is approachable to most users due to its middle-ground characteristics and smooth key travel. The stepped feeling of the Jupiter Brown adds a unique tactile experience for users who prefer a more subtle tactile feedback.
Overall, both the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Cheese switch excels in ultra-light keypresses and a distinct sound profile, the Jupiter Brown switch provides a more classic and refined typing experience with its tactile feedback and medium-heavy weight. Whichever switch you choose, whether it be based on sound, feel, or any other factor, rest assured that both options will offer a high-quality typing experience tailored to your individual preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you value a light switch with a smooth and crisp typing feel, along with a distinctive clacky sound, then the HMX Cheese switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more traditional tactile switch with a medium-heavy weight and a classic keystroke feel, along with softer backlight effects, then the Gateron Jupiter Brown switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a unique typing experience with the Cheese switch or a classic tactile feel with the Jupiter Brown switch.
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