HMX Cheese vs. KTT Laurel

Overview

When comparing the HMX Cheese and KTT Laurel mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The HMX Cheese is renowned for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, with a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. Being lighter than 90% of switches, it provides a light and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel offers a medium-light linear switch with a full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort. Additionally, it boasts a subtly low-pitched sound profile. Both switches have their own strengths, making them suitable for different typing styles and preferences. 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

KTT Laurel Linear

$5.50

$3.79 per 10

$4.42

$3.95 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the KTT Laurel differ in terms of the sound profile they create. The Cheese's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Laurel's POM top housing creates a unique sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. While both materials offer a pleasing sound, they do so in slightly different ways.

In terms of the bottom housing, both the Cheese's nylon and the Laurel's POM materials provide a similar experience. Both materials have qualities that contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches. This similarity in the bottom housing materials means that users can expect a consistent sound and feel across both switches when bottoming out keys. Despite using different materials, the overall impact on the typing experience remains relatively similar between the two switches.

When considering the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall typing experience, it becomes clear that the choice of material plays a significant role in the sound and feel of the switch. While the Cheese and Laurel switches may differ in their top housing materials, the bottom housing materials provide a consistent experience that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between nylon and POM housing materials will come down to personal preference in sound and typing feel, with both options offering a unique and pleasing typing experience.

Weight

The actuation force of the HMX Cheese linear switch is 43 grams, the same as the KTT Laurel linear switch. This means that both switches will require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cheese requires 46 grams while the Laurel requires 50 grams. This makes the Cheese lighter in terms of the force needed to fully press down the key compared to the Laurel. Some may prefer the lighter bottom out force of the Cheese for extended typing or gaming sessions, as it may cause less fatigue over time. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may opt for the Laurel with its slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.

Travel distance

Both the HMX Cheese linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you will feel the key travel a distance of 3.5 mm from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results from both switches as they offer the same key feel and responsiveness. This makes them ideal choices for individuals who prefer a consistent typing experience with a medium travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

Overall, when comparing the HMX Cheese and KTT Laurel switches, both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The HMX Cheese provides a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a distinct clacky, poppy sound, making it a great choice for those who prefer ultra-light switches with a crisp tactile feedback. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel offers a medium-light linear switch with a full POM housing for a responsive yet comfortable typing feel, accompanied by a subtly low-pitched sound profile. Depending on whether you prioritize smoothness and sound or responsiveness and comfort, both switches offer excellent options in the mechanical keyboard switch market. If you are unsure about which one to go for, rest assured that you can achieve a similar level of typing satisfaction with either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two would come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you seek.

Conclusion

To sum up, when considering whether to choose the HMX Cheese linear switch or the KTT Laurel linear switch, you should think about the typing experience you prefer. If you prioritize a smooth and ultra-light switch with a satisfying clacky sound, then the HMX Cheese switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium-light linear switch that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort, with a subtly low-pitched sound profile, then the KTT Laurel switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing preferences and what qualities you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Cheese Linear

$5.50

$3.79 per 10

Learn more

KTT Laurel Linear

$4.42

$3.95 per 10

Learn more