HMX Cheese vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cheese and SP-Star Meteor Orange offer unique typing experiences. The HMX Cheese, a linear switch, is praised for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing feel. With a satisfying clacky and poppy sound signature, these ultra-light switches are lighter than most others on the market. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange, a tactile switch, is known for its gentle tactility and neutral sound profile. Described as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished', these switches provide a soft and seductive typing experience. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the HMX Cheese and the SP-Star Meteor Orange utilize nylon as their top and bottom housing material, resulting in a similar typing experience for users. The use of nylon in the housing of both switches allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound absorption properties. This creates a duller and rounder sound that enhances the overall typing experience. As a result, users can expect a consistent typing feel and sound whether using the Cheese or the Meteor Orange switches.
Despite both switches sharing nylon as the housing material for their top and bottom components, there may be slight differences in the typing experience due to variations in design or construction. The qualities of the bottom housing, which impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, may vary slightly between the Cheese and the Meteor Orange. Similarly, the impact of the top housing on the sound when releasing a key may also differ slightly between the two switches. These subtle differences could result in a nuanced typing experience for users who are attuned to the feel and sound of mechanical switches.
Overall, the similarities in housing material between the HMX Cheese and the SP-Star Meteor Orange provide a consistent and reliable typing experience for users seeking a deeper and fuller sound profile in their mechanical switches. While there may be minor distinctions in the typing feel and sound between the two switches, the shared use of nylon ensures that users can expect a comparable performance when utilizing either the Cheese or the Meteor Orange switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for design, color, or other specific features beyond the housing material.
Weight
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Cheese at 46 grams is still lighter than the 57 grams bottom out force of the Meteor Orange. This means that the Cheese switch requires less force to trigger a keystroke and also less force in total when fully pressed down compared to the Meteor Orange switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods, the Cheese switch would be a better option. On the other hand, those who prefer a slightly heavier push for a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Meteor Orange switch. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience and force requirement.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Cheese switch offers a slightly shallower press compared to the Meteor Orange, making it a preferred choice for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switch provides a bit more depth to the key press, which may be more satisfying for users who prefer a more substantial feel. Both switches offer different experiences due to their varying travel distances, catering to different preferences in terms of key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key press sensation.
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 SP-Star Meteor Orange has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor Orange for $5.00.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX Cheese linear switch stands out for its satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound profile, offering a unique typing experience with its ultra-light feel. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is known for its gentle and neutral sound, providing a soft and seductive tactility with a thocky sound when pressed. Both switches offer different auditory experiences, with the Cheese being lighter and more distinct in its sound, while the Meteor Orange provides a softer and more subtle typing noise.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cheese linear switch is celebrated for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, delivering a unique tactile feel that sets it apart from other switches. The SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, on the other hand, offers a mild and polished typing experience, making it approachable to most users with its gentle characteristics and smooth key travel. Both switches provide a different typing sensation, with the Cheese being smoother and more distinctive in its feel, while the Meteor Orange offers a comfortable and refined typing experience.
Overall, the HMX Cheese linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in both sound and feel. While the Cheese switch provides a clacky and light typing experience with a unique sound profile, the Meteor Orange switch offers a softer and more neutral typing sensation with a gentle tactility. Depending on personal preference and typing style, users can choose between these switches to cater to their specific needs and preferences. Ultimately, both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience and provide a satisfying feel and sound during everyday use.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you value a light and smooth typing experience with a satisfying clacky sound, the Cheese switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentle and tactlie typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Meteor Orange switch could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style. Choose the switch that will enhance your typing experience and make your keyboard feel like an extension of yourself.
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