HMX Cheese vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options stand out: the HMX Cheese, a linear switch, and the KTT Matcha, a tactile switch. The Cheese switch is prized for its unmatched smoothness and pristine typing experience, providing a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. On the other hand, the Matcha switch offers a comfortable and snappy tactility while typing, along with a clean bottom-out sound thanks to its long pole stem. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the KTT Matcha lies in the material used for the top housing. The Cheese utilizes nylon for its top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the plastic's softness and ability to absorb more sound. On the other hand, the Matcha incorporates polycarbonate for its top housing, leading to a sharper and crisper sound profile as a result of the plastic's stiffness and clarity. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate ultimately depends on personal preference for the type of sound produced.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the HMX Cheese and the KTT Matcha feature nylon and polycarbonate, respectively. The use of nylon for the Cheese's bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its effect on the top housing. Conversely, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Matcha contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, reflecting the qualities of the material used. Despite the different materials, both bottom housings play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switches, impacting the sound when pressed down and released.
Overall, the choice between the HMX Cheese and the KTT Matcha ultimately comes down to the desired sound profile and feel that each housing material provides. While the Cheese offers a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon housing, the Matcha presents a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate housing. Whether you prefer a rounder, duller sound profile or a clear, resonant sound profile, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Additionally, the combination of different housing materials for the top and bottom housings allows for a nuanced typing experience, with each material influencing the sound and feel in distinct ways.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, it is evident that both switches fall on the lighter side of the force spectrum. The actuation force of the Cheese is 43 grams, slightly heavier than the Matcha's 40 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Cheese requires 46 grams compared to the Matcha's 45 grams. Both switches provide a relatively light typing experience, making them well-suited for extended typing or gaming sessions. While the Cheese is slightly heavier in terms of actuation force, the overall difference is minimal, and users can expect similar results from both switches in terms of key feel and responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for a slightly heavier or lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
The Cheese linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Matcha tactile switch's travel distance of 4 mm. The Cheese switch offers a more responsive feel, making it ideal for gamers or those who prefer shorter travel distances for faster reaction times. On the other hand, the Matcha switch provides a slightly deeper keypress with its longer travel distance, making it a better choice for those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on individual preferences, with the shorter Cheese switch being best for quick and precise movements, while the longer Matcha switch caters to those who prefer a more deliberate and robust 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 $3.79.
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 switch offers a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound that is described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha switch provides a clean bottom-out sound with a sharp and snappy tactility. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience depending on personal preference, keycap material, and keyboard construction.
In terms of feel, the HMX Cheese switch is known for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, which is not specifically described in the information provided. The KTT Matcha switch, however, offers a comfortable and snappy tactility with characteristics such as a stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle feel. This means that the Matcha switch provides a more dynamic typing experience with different stages of feedback and responsiveness compared to the Cheese switch.
Overall, both the HMX Cheese linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cheese switch provides a lighter actuation force and a satisfying clacky sound, the Matcha switch offers a clean bottom-out sound and a dynamic tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. If you enjoy a light and crisp typing experience, the Cheese switch may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more dynamic and responsive tactile feel, the Matcha switch might be the better option. Both switches are capable of enhancing your overall typing experience and can be paired with different keycaps and keyboards to achieve the desired sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you value an ultra-light switch with a smooth and satisfying typing feel, as well as a distinctive clacky sound, then the Cheese switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you enjoy a comfortable and snappy tactility with a clean bottom-out sound, then the Matcha switch is the better choice for you. Consider your typing style and sound preferences to determine which switch will provide you with the optimal mechanical keyboard experience.
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