HMX Cheese vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cheese and the Dareu Master both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The HMX Cheese is renowned for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, accompanied by a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. These ultra-light linear switches stand out for being lighter than 90% of all switches. On the other hand, the Dareu Master, an all-POM linear switch, strikes a medium weight balance for its users, delivering a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness during operation. While the Cheese excels in providing a light and crisp typing experience, the Master offers a slightly heavier touch with a polished feel. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Cheese and Dareu Master switches have distinct characteristics that play a significant role in the overall typing experience. Both switches use different materials for the top and bottom housings, with the Cheese utilizing nylon for both parts, while the Master incorporates POM for both housings. In terms of sound profile, the Cheese's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound to create a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Master's POM top housing produces a unique and pleasing sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted.
The differences in housing materials between the Cheese and Master switches extend to the bottom housings as well. The nylon bottom housing of the Cheese contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a more rounded and dull sound upon bottoming out. In contrast, the POM bottom housing of the Master also adds to the overall sound experience by generating a pleasing and unique sound profile that is deeper and relatively more muted. While the top and bottom housings may have varying impacts on the sound profile and feel of each switch, they ultimately work together to create a cohesive typing experience for users.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the HMX Cheese and Dareu Master switches, both switches aim to provide users with a satisfying typing experience. The nylon and POM materials used in the construction of these switches each bring their own unique sound profiles and characteristics to the table. While the Cheese may offer a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon housing, the Master provides a pleasing and unique sound profile with its POM housing. In the end, both switches utilize high-quality materials to create switches that cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, it is evident that both switches have relatively light actuation forces. The Cheese has an actuation force of 43 grams, slightly lighter than the Master's 45 grams. However, the Cheese also has a lighter bottom out force of 46 grams compared to the Master, which has an unknown bottom out force. This means that the Cheese switch may offer a slightly lighter typing experience overall. For those who prefer a lighter touch when typing for extended periods, the Cheese may be the more comfortable option. On the other hand, for individuals who prefer a bit more resistance for a more substantial typing experience, the Master may be the better choice. Both switches offer a relatively light actuation force, but the differing bottom out forces could result in slightly different typing experiences.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, it can be seen that the Cheese has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Master's 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular for their quicker response times, especially among gamers. The difference of 0.1 mm between the two may not be significant to most users, but those who prefer a slightly deeper key press may find the Cheese more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and 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 Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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 unique clacky, poppy, and crispy sound that is sure to delight users who enjoy an audible typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Master linear switch provides a classic clacky sound signature that is more medium-weight, appealing to those who prefer a slightly quieter typing sound. Both switches have their own distinct sound profiles, so choosing between them will depend on your personal preference for typing noise.
In terms of feel, the HMX Cheese linear switch is known for its unparalleled smoothness and ultra-light actuation, which results in a pristine typing experience. The Dareu Master linear switch, on the other hand, offers a mild and polished typing feel that falls in a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, but the Cheese switch leans towards a lighter and smoother feel, while the Master switch offers a more balanced and refined typing experience.
Overall, both the HMX Cheese and Dareu Master linear switches have their own strengths in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a lighter switch with a clacky sound, the Cheese may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you're looking for a medium-weight switch with a more balanced sound and feel, the Master could be the way to go. Ultimately, trying out both switches on a personal keyboard setup will give you the best idea of which one suits your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, you will want to choose the Cheese if you value an ultra-light switch with a smooth and pristine typing experience, along with a satisfying clacky sound signature. On the other hand, opt for the Master if you prefer a medium-weight switch that offers a classic clacky sound and exceptional smoothness in operation. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether you prioritize a lighter feel and poppy sound (Cheese) or a medium weight and classic clacky sound (Master).
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