HMX Cheese vs. HMX Lotus (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cheese and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) present two intriguing options for different typing experiences, despite both being linear switches. The Cheese is celebrated for its unparalleled smoothness and a pristine typing experience, offering a delightful clacky, poppy, and crispy sound that many users find satisfying. With its ultra-light weight, which ranks it among the lightest switches on the market, the Cheese is ideal for those who prioritize a feather-light feel and fast actuation in their typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) brings a different dynamic to the table. With a medium-heavy weight of 62.5g, these switches deliver a bright, resonant sound and a bouncy sensation with each keystroke, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial feedback and a tactile experience. The choice between the two often boils down to personal preference: the Cheese for a light and airy feel, versus the Lotus (Heavy) for a more robust and grounded typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the HMX Cheese and HMX Lotus (Heavy) utilize nylon for their top and bottom switch housings, ensuring a consistent sound profile and tactile experience during typing. As described, nylon is recognized as a classic switch housing material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer structure. This characteristic is essential in both switches, as it effectively absorbs sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory output. Consequently, the similarity in material across both the Cheese and Lotus (Heavy) allows users to anticipate comparable sound qualities, making each stroke feel satisfying regardless of the switch chosen.
In terms of performance, the impact of the nylon housing is multifaceted. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel—this is where the softer properties of nylon shine, providing a cushioning effect when the key is fully pressed down. Meanwhile, the top housing plays a critical role in the sound produced upon releasing the key. Since both the HMX Cheese and HMX Lotus (Heavy) share the same nylon material for both housings, the interplay between the top and bottom components yields a cohesive typing experience characterized by warmth and depth in sound. Users can expect a familiar feedback mechanism, regardless of which switch they opt for.
While the HMX Cheese and HMX Lotus (Heavy) incorporate identical materials, their overall performance and user experience are subtly nuanced. The uniformity in housing materials guarantees that the characteristics of sound absorption and profile are maintained across both switch types. Yet, layering and design specifics unique to each model could still result in differences in the tactile feedback and acoustic nuances, contingent upon how each switch is tuned. By maintaining nylon as the core housing material, both switches ensure that users will enjoy a rich auditory experience, while the potential variations in switch design might cater to different preferences in feel and sound throughout their typing sessions.
Weight
The HMX Cheese linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch present contrasting characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Cheese switch features a relatively light actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. This can be beneficial for extended periods of typing or gaming, as it reduces finger fatigue. In contrast, the Lotus (Heavy) switch is designed with a stronger actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, appealing to users who appreciate a more substantial push feel. This heavier force may provide a satisfying tactile feedback, which some typists prefer. Overall, the Cheese switch is the lighter option, while the Lotus (Heavy) switch offers a heavier and more resistant typing experience, catering to different user preferences in switch feel and typing dynamics.
Travel distance
Both the HMX Cheese linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch have an identical travel distance of 3.5 mm, meaning that users pressing either switch will experience the same distance when actuating the key. As a result, both switches provide a similar feel and feedback during use, making them equally effective for those who prioritize travel distance in their typing experience. With the same travel distance, users can expect a consistent performance whether they choose the Cheese or the Lotus (Heavy) switch.
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 HMX Lotus (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus (Heavy) for $2.99.
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
The sound quality of the HMX Cheese linear switch creates an engaging auditory experience characterized by a clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. This makes for a lively typing experience that can be quite satisfying when engaged in both casual and intensive tasks. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch produces a bright, resonant sound that enhances its tactile response. The differences in sound can influence your overall typing experience, adding layers of enjoyment as you listen for each keystroke; however, it's important to remember that the full acoustic profile will also depend on the keyboard's construction and the keycap materials used.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cheese switches are celebrated for their unparalleled smoothness, promoting a pristine typing experience that is incredibly satisfying. These ultra-light switches, being lighter than 90% of all switches, allow for swift keystrokes that can reduce fatigue during long typing sessions. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches weigh 62.5g, providing a medium-heavy tactile feedback that encourages a more deliberate typing style. Their bouncy feel makes each keystroke enjoyable, appealing to users who appreciate a bit more resistance when typing. This variance in feel caters to different preferences, allowing typists to choose based on whether they favor a lighter or heavier switch.
In conclusion, both the HMX Cheese and HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. With the Cheese providing a lively auditory experience and ultra-smooth feel, and the Lotus delivering a bright sound accompanied by a bouncy, medium-heavy touch, the choice ultimately hinges on the user's desired typing experience. Whether one is looking for a light and crispy sound or a heavier, more deliberate feel, both switches can deliver on the promise of a delightful typing journey, ensuring that typists will find satisfaction no matter their selection.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and intended use. If you prefer a lighter key feel that allows for rapid, effortless typing, the HMX Cheese is an excellent choice due to its mere 46 grams of bottom-out force. Its ultra-light weight, combined with a smooth action and a satisfying clacky, poppy sound signature, makes it especially suitable for activities like gaming, where speed and quick responsiveness are key. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback and a solid, heavy keystroke, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) with its 62.5 grams of bottom-out force is likely to enhance your typing experience. It offers a super bouncy sensation with a bright, resonant sound, making every keystroke feel purposeful and satisfying. Therefore, consider the type of tasks you usually engage in—whether you value speed and lightness with the Cheese or a robust, deliberate feel with the Lotus (Heavy)—to find the switch that aligns best with your preferences and enhances your overall typing experience.
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