HMX Cheese vs. Kailh BCP
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Kailh BCP switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your typing experience, the HMX Cheese and the Kailh BCP stand out as noteworthy contenders in the linear switch category. The HMX Cheese is celebrated for its unparalleled smoothness, delivering an ultra-light touch that makes it lighter than 90% of all available switches. This results in an exceptionally satisfying clacky and poppy sound signature, perfect for those who enjoy a light, responsive typing experience. In contrast, the Kailh BCP offers a reimagined take on the classic Black Cherry Pies, featuring custom-molded switches that simplify maintenance by eliminating disassembly hassles. The BCP provides a creamy and elastic feel, complemented by a similarly poppy and clacky sound, making it a delightful option for users seeking a more bouncy typing dynamic. Both switches have their unique strengths, catering to different typing preferences and styles. 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
52g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
20mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the Kailh BCP switches, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material is not just a coincidence; nylon is renowned in the keypad community for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. The use of nylon, being a softer plastic, allows both switches to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. As both the HMX Cheese and Kailh BCP are composed entirely of nylon, users can expect similar acoustic characteristics from both switches. The consistent use of this material across the board emphasizes the reliability and performance that nylon brings to mechanical switches.
Furthermore, the construction of the bottom housings for both the HMX Cheese and Kailh BCP mirrors the qualities observed in their top housings. With nylon being employed in both components, the impact on sound when bottoming out a key is noticeably dulled, providing a satisfying and muted experience rather than a harsh sound. In essence, the combined nylon construction ensures that whether one is typing on the Cheese or the BCP, the sensation and acoustics of the bottoming out will be quite comparable. Consequently, both switch types will share a unified feel and auditory feedback, enhancing the overall typing experience for users who prefer softer plastic materials.
However, the overall typing experience may still differ based on personal preferences and other design factors beyond housing materials. While both the HMX Cheese and Kailh BCP benefit from the sound-absorbing qualities of nylon, the variations in switch design, actuation force, and tactile feedback can introduce distinctions in user experience. Ultimately, though the housing materials in both switches are identical, the full experience may still vary due to the unique characteristics of each switch's individual design philosophy. Thus, while the auditory profiles may align closely, the nuanced feel of each switch remains a personal journey for the user.
Weight
The HMX Cheese linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch present distinct characteristics when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. The Cheese switch boasts a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a softer typing experience, especially beneficial for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the BCP switch features a heavier actuation force of 52 grams and a more significant bottom out force of 63.5 grams, appealing to users who enjoy a firmer push feel while typing. This difference means that users of the Cheese switch might experience less finger fatigue over long durations, while the BCP switch caters to those who prefer a more tactile and substantial feedback from their keyboard. Overall, if you prioritize a lighter typing experience, the Cheese is the better choice, whereas the BCP serves those who appreciate a heavier feel for more responsive typing.
Travel distance
Both the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch have an identical travel distance of 3.5 mm, meaning that when pressed, they travel the same distance from top to bottom. This similarity in travel distance indicates that users can expect a comparable feel and response when typing or gaming, which allows for consistency in performance across both switches. Therefore, if you're looking for a switch that provides a consistent keypress experience, you can confidently choose either the HMX Cheese or the Kailh BCP, as both will deliver similar results in terms of travel distance.
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 Kailh BCP has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the BCP for $4.75.
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 characterized by its satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, making it especially appealing to users who enjoy an auditory feedback while typing. This tends to create an engaging atmosphere that enhances the overall typing experience. Similarly, the Kailh BCP linear switch also features a poppy and clacky sound profile, echoing the Cheese’s auditory characteristics. Therefore, users can expect both switches to deliver a lively sound experience, although the specific tonal qualities may vary slightly based on the board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Cheese excels with an unparalleled smoothness that provides a pristine typing experience, making each keystroke enjoyable and effortless. This ultra-light design is an advantage for long typing sessions, as it reduces fatigue and enhances comfort. In contrast, the BCP switch presents a creamy, viscous, elastic, and bouncy feel. This sensation lends itself to a tactile experience that some users may find reminiscent of older switches. While both switches aim to optimize typing comfort, the distinct characteristics could lead to different preferences among users who value smoothness versus a bouncier feel.
In conclusion, both the HMX Cheese and Kailh BCP linear switches cater to users seeking a pleasant auditory and tactile experience during typing. Although their sound profiles are similarly lively with clacky and poppy qualities, the feel of each switch informs a different typing experience, with the Cheese focusing on smoothness and the BCP on a bouncy sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two may come down to personal preference in typing comfort and sound.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, you'll want to consider your personal preferences for key feel, sound, and typing experience. If you prefer a lighter switch with a bottom-out force of 46 grams, the Cheese might be your best bet. Its ultra-smooth performance and satisfying clacky, poppy sound provide an enjoyable experience, making it ideal for users who prioritize a nimble typing feel and a delightful auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you gravitate towards a more substantial tactile experience, the BCP’s medium-heavy force of 63.5 grams offers a creamy, viscous feel that some might find more satisfying over long typing sessions. The BCP's bounciness and the same poppy yet slightly deeper sound profile could be preferable for those who enjoy a more deliberate key press as well as a bit more resistance. Understanding these nuances will help you align the right switch with your typing style, ensuring you get the performance and satisfaction you desire from your mechanical keyboard.
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