HMX Cheese vs. Bsun Kiki Red

Overview

When comparing the HMX Cheese and the Bsun Kiki Red mechanical keyboard switches, one can see distinct differences in their characteristics. The HMX Cheese switch is praised for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, with a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. On the other hand, the Bsun Kiki Red offers a finely-tuned typing experience with a comfortably high-pitched, clacky nuance and medium-light weighting for a balanced tactile experience. While the HMX Cheese is lighter than 90% of all switches, the Bsun Kiki Red stands out for its unique sound signature due to all-POM housings and smooth actuation facilitated by Ly stems. In general, the HMX Cheese may appeal to those who prefer ultra-light switches, while the Bsun Kiki Red is favored by enthusiasts who appreciate subtlety in auditory feedback and finesse in performance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Cheese Linear

Bsun Kiki Red Linear

$5.50

$3.79 per 10

$4.70

$3.83 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Cheese and the Bsun Kiki Red both use different housing materials for their top and bottom housing components. The Cheese utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, while the Kiki Red uses POM for both. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, POM housings produce a unique and pleasing sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. Despite these differences, both housing materials offer a quality typing experience with distinct sound profiles.

The use of different housing materials for the top and bottom components of the switches in the HMX Cheese and the Bsun Kiki Red allows for a split in the qualities each material brings to the overall typing experience. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing material's qualities become more prominent, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. This division in housing materials highlights the importance of both the top and bottom components in creating the overall sound profile of a switch.

While the HMX Cheese and the Bsun Kiki Red feature different housing materials for their top and bottom components, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with unique sound profiles. The Nylon and POM housing materials used in the two switches have distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall sound and feel of each keypress. Despite their differences, both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile that adds to the tactile feedback and overall typing experience. Whether it's the softer sound of nylon in the Cheese or the pleasing tone of POM in the Kiki Red, both switches deliver a quality typing experience that enthusiasts can appreciate.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, it is evident that both switches are relatively light in terms of force required. The Cheese has a slightly higher actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Kiki Red's 42 grams, but the Kiki Red has a higher bottom out force of 50 grams compared to the Cheese's 46 grams. Both switches provide a light typing experience, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing. The actuation force for both switches is quite similar, so users can expect comparable results in terms of triggering keystrokes. Overall, the Cheese can be considered the lighter option due to its lower bottom out force, while the Kiki Red offers a slightly heavier typing experience.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the HMX Cheese linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The Cheese's 3.5 mm travel distance provides a slightly quicker actuation compared to the Kiki Red's 3.6 mm, making it a preferred choice for those who prioritize speed and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Kiki Red's slightly longer travel distance may offer a more substantial feel to those who prefer a bit more depth in their key presses. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Cheese linear switch is best known for its satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crisp sound signature, offering a unique auditory experience that is lighter than the majority of switches available. On the other hand, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch provides a finely-tuned typing experience with a comfortably high-pitched, clacky nuance that is not overly loud. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Cheese switch being more on the crisp side and the Kiki Reds providing a more nuanced auditory feedback. Ultimately, the sound produced by both switches will be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps being used.

When it comes to feel, the HMX Cheese linear switch is known for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, offering a unique tactile sensation that is not easily replicated. On the other hand, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch boasts an exceptional smoothness during actuation due to the use of Ly in the stems, as well as a medium-light weighting that enhances the overall typing experience. The Kiki Red switch offers a balance of smoothness and performance finesse, providing enthusiasts with a comfortable and satisfying typing feel. Whether you prefer a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, or easy-to-press typing experience, both switches offer a range of qualities that cater to different preferences.

In conclusion, both the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that set them apart from each other. While the Cheese switch provides a lighter and crisp sound profile along with an unparalleled smoothness in typing, the Kiki Red switch offers a more nuanced auditory feedback and a well-balanced tactile experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches can offer a satisfying typing experience that meets your individual needs. Ultimately, experimenting with both switches on different setups will allow you to determine which one best suits your personal preferences and typing style.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when choosing between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a typing experience. If you are looking for an ultra-light switch with a satisfyingly clacky sound signature and smooth actuation, the HMX Cheese switch may be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a finely-tuned typing experience with a subtly high-pitched, clacky nuance and a medium-light weighting for a balanced tactile feedback, the Bsun Kiki Red switch could be the ideal option. Consider your sound and feel preferences carefully to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Cheese Linear

$5.50

$3.79 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Kiki Red Linear

$4.70

$3.83 per 10

Learn more