HMX Cheese vs. Zuoce Lavender
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Zuoce Lavender switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the HMX Cheese and the Zuoce Lavender, both of which are linear switches. The HMX Cheese is praised for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, offering a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. These ultra-light switches are lighter than 90% of all switches, making them a favorite among users who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender switch is well-known for its exceptional smoothness right out of the box, thanks to its proprietary Ly blend. Users can expect a crisp and clacky sound signature, making each keystroke a satisfying experience. The Lavender switch is also categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky', providing a different typing experience compared to the HMX Cheese. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX Cheese and Zuoce Lavender both use different materials for their top and bottom housing, with the Cheese utilizing nylon for both top and bottom, while the Lavender uses POM for both. The nylon top housing of the Cheese offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the POM top housing of the Lavender, which creates a more muted and unique sound. This contrast in sound profile between the two switches can result in a different typing experience for users, with the Cheese having a duller and rounder sound, while the Lavender provides a deeper and more pleasing sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the HMX Cheese and Zuoce Lavender use nylon for the Cheese and POM for the Lavender. Both materials absorb sound effectively due to their softer nature, which results in a deeper sound profile for both switches. However, the specific qualities of the sound may vary slightly, with the Cheese producing a fuller sound profile compared to the relatively more muted sound of the Lavender. Despite these differences, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with their soft bottom housing materials.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for switches such as the HMX Cheese and Zuoce Lavender can significantly impact the sound profile and typing feel of the switches. While both switches use different materials for their top and bottom housing, they both aim to create a pleasing typing experience for users. Whether it's the deeper and fuller sound of the nylon top housing in the Cheese or the unique and muted sound of the POM top housing in the Lavender, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Cheese still remains lighter at 46 grams compared to the Lavender's 53 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Cheese switch for longer typing or gaming sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Lavender switch. Both switches provide different levels of actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individual preferences for typing and gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The Cheese switch may offer a slightly more substantial key press feel due to its slightly longer travel distance, making it a good choice for those who prefer a bit more depth in their key presses. On the other hand, the Lavender switch's slightly shorter travel distance may appeal to those who prioritize quick and responsive typing experiences. In general, both switches offer relatively short travel distances compared to traditional options, so users can expect similar results in terms of overall 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 $3.99.
The Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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 satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, providing a unique typing experience that stands out from the rest. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch also delivers a crisp and clacky sound, making each keystroke a distinctly satisfying experience. Both switches offer a pleasing auditory feedback that can enhance the overall typing experience, with the Cheese being lighter and potentially slightly louder, while the Lavender might offer a smoother and more refined sound profile.
In terms of feel, the HMX Cheese linear switch presents an unparalleled smoothness and a pristine typing experience, offering a unique tactile feedback that sets it apart from other switches. In comparison, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch is known for its exceptional smoothness right out of the box, providing a gentle resistance during key presses that requires minimal force to activate. Both switches offer a light actuation force that can make typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.
Overall, both the HMX Cheese and Zuoce Lavender linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Cheese switch may provide a slightly louder sound and a potentially lighter feel, the Lavender switch offers a smoother and more refined typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Whether you opt for the Cheese or the Lavender, you can expect a high-quality switch that will enhance your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, consider the specific qualities that each switch offers. If you prioritize a lighter bottom out force and an ultra-smooth typing experience with a satisfying clacky sound, the HMX Cheese switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force with exceptional smoothness right out of the box and a crisp clacky sound signature, then the Zuoce Lavender switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing preferences and the specific qualities that you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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