HMX Cheese vs. Gateron Magnetic Jade
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly affect your typing experience, and two noteworthy contenders are the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch. The HMX Cheese stands out for its unparalleled smoothness and a unique sound signature that combines clacky, poppy, and crispy tones, making it a delight for those who prioritize a light touch—it's lighter than 90% of switches on the market. This switch is ideal for users looking for an ultra-responsive feel during extended typing sessions or gaming. Conversely, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches shine with their bright, clacky acoustics, offering a superior typing experience that is particularly well-suited for Wooting Hall Effect keyboards. These switches appeal to enthusiasts seeking both improved sound clarity and tactile feedback. Ultimately, both options provide distinct benefits tailored to different preferences. 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
30g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Cheese and Gateron Magnetic Jade switches employ different materials for their top housings, which results in distinct sound profiles when typing. The HMX Cheese features a nylon top housing that is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition. This characteristic makes the nylon top more effective at absorbing sound, generating a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and allows for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in material means that while users of the Cheese may appreciate a warmer and mellower typing sound, those who prefer the Jade will likely enjoy a more vibrant and resonant acoustic experience, especially notable in RGB lighting scenarios where the polycarbonate's translucency can enhance aesthetic appeal.
Looking at the bottom housing materials, both switches share the same nylon material composition in this part of their design. The nylon bottom housing is acknowledged for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile that aligns with the characteristics of the Cheese's top housing. Therefore, when it comes to the feel and sound at the bottom-out stage, both switches will demonstrate similar results due to their shared bottom housing material. The impact of the bottom housing is crucial in determining the overall typing feel, providing a consistent experience across both switches regarding the sound dampening qualities and physical feedback when a key is pressed down.
Overall, the combination of different top housing materials in the HMX Cheese and Gateron Magnetic Jade leads to varied auditory characteristics, while the use of nylon for both bottom housings creates a parallel in sound profile at the bottom-out point. This divergence illustrates the importance of switching materials in the design of mechanical keyboards. While users seeking a deeper sound may prefer the Cheese, those craving clarity and resonance may lean towards the Magnetic Jade; however, both switches will deliver a familiar bottoming-out experience thanks to their nylon bottom housings. Thus, an understanding of the interplay between different housing materials can significantly influence a user's typing experience, highlighting the intricate crafting of mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, we find notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different typing preferences. The HMX Cheese switch features an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it relatively light and suitable for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade switch has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams but a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams. This weight distribution can offer a different typing feel; the Magnetic Jade is designed for a softer initial press, but users will experience more resistance when bottoming out, which some may appreciate for a more substantial tactile feedback. Overall, the HMX Cheese switch may be better suited for those who favor a consistent light touch, suitable for prolonged use, while the Gateron Magnetic Jade offers a more varied experience with a lighter actuation yet a stronger bottom out, making it appealing to those who enjoy a tactile pushback at the end of their keypresses.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch both share the same travel distance of 3.5 mm, meaning that users can expect a similar tactile experience in terms of keypress depth when engaging either switch. This identical travel distance allows for consistent results in typing feel and key response, making both switches suitable choices for those who prefer a linear switch design. Since their travel distances are equal, users can transition between these two switches without adjusting to different keypress depths, ensuring a seamless experience whether using one or the other.
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 Gateron Magnetic Jade comes in at $8.00 per 10 switches.
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 HMX Cheese linear switch is celebrated for its satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, offering an enjoyable auditory experience that stands out compared to most switches on the market. This acoustic profile is further enhanced by the ultra-light design, which contributes to a lively typing sound that many find appealing. On the other hand, the Gateron Magnetic Jade also provides a bright and clacky sound, making it a great candidate for users looking to upgrade their keyboard’s acoustics. Overall, both switches deliver a delightful auditory experience that will satisfy enthusiasts who appreciate engaging sound feedback during their typing sessions.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cheese switches are regarded for their unparalleled smoothness, ensuring a pristine typing experience that feels silky under the fingers. This ultra-light feel sets them apart, particularly for users who prefer minimal resistance while typing. Conversely, the Magnetic Jade switches are designed to offer a superior typing experience that excels in both feedback and comfort, although further specific details about the feel are not provided. While the Cheese may provide a more distinctly smooth experience, both switches cater to users who value a light touch and overall pleasant typing sensation.
In conclusion, both the HMX Cheese and Gateron Magnetic Jade switches present themselves as excellent options, delivering engaging sound profiles that are bright and clacky while promoting a delightful typing experience. The Cheese excels in smoothness, while the Jade emphasizes a superior overall experience. If you're seeking a lively and satisfying typing atmosphere, either switch could serve your needs well, offering an exceptional blend of comfort and auditory pleasure that will enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prefer a lighter switch that offers an exceptionally smooth and ultra-light typing experience, the HMX Cheese is likely the right fit for you. Its satisfying clacky and poppy sound signature makes it a joy for both typing and gaming, especially if you enjoy a more nimble touch with lower forces required to actuate. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more robust feel with a medium-light bottom-out force, the Gateron Magnetic Jade may be your best bet. This switch not only provides a bright and clacky acoustics that enhances the overall sound profile of your keyboard but also delivers a superior tactile experience, particularly suitable for more demanding typing tasks or gaming sessions. In summary, choose the Cheese for a lightweight and crisp engagement, while opting for the Magnetic Jade if you seek a tactile, well-rounded experience with a bit more resistance.
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