HMX Cheese vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cheese and the Cherry MX Speed Silver both offer unique features for different preferences. The HMX Cheese switch stands out for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, along with a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. These ultra-light switches are lighter than 90% of all switches, making them ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is known for its rapid response and maximum speed, making it a top choice for gamers looking to gain a competitive edge. With its linear action and low spring resistance, the Speed Silver triggers instantly, crucial for gamers where every millisecond matters. 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
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the Cherry MX Speed Silver, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deep and full sound profile when typing on switches, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs sound effectively. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches made with harder plastics. Therefore, both the Cheese and the Speed Silver switches are likely to offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel due to their shared nylon housing material.
However, despite both switches using nylon for their housing materials, there may still be subtle differences in the overall typing experience. The bottom housing of a switch typically has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, whereas the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Cheese and the Speed Silver may produce similar sound profiles when typing, there could be nuanced distinctions in the feel of the switches based on how the nylon housing material is utilized in each design.
Overall, the choice of housing material, in this case, nylon, plays a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience on switches. Both the HMX Cheese and the Cherry MX Speed Silver benefit from the sound-absorbing properties of nylon, which creates a deeper and fuller typing sound. While the impact of the top and bottom housings may vary slightly between the two switches, the use of nylon ensures that users can expect a consistent and enjoyable typing experience with a similar sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, it is clear that the MX Speed Silver is the lighter option. The Cheese has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the MX Speed Silver has an actuation force of 30 grams. The bottom out force for the MX Speed Silver is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the MX Speed Silver may be the preferred choice due to its lower actuation force. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Cheese may be a better option with its higher actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Cheese linear switch is 3.5 mm, slightly longer than the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Cheese being a bit longer. Gamers tend to prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the MX Speed Silver a popular choice for gaming keyboards. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the HMX Cheese switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing or gaming experience desired.
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 Cherry MX Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Cheese linear switches offer a unique and satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound that sets them apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switches produce a thocky and low-pitched sound that is deep, rich, and satisfying. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance your typing or gaming experience depending on your personal preference and setup.
In terms of feel, the HMX Cheese linear switches are known for their unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, providing a light and comfortable feel while typing. Conversely, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switches are described as textured, offering noticeable friction when pressed that may appeal to users looking for a tactile feel during typing or gaming sessions. Again, personal preference plays a significant role in determining which switch feels best for your specific needs and typing style.
Overall, both the HMX Cheese linear switches and Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prefer a light and smooth typing experience with a clacky sound or a textured feel with a thocky sound, both switches provide excellent options for enhancing your typing or gaming setup. Ultimately, trying out both switches on different boards and keycap setups will give you a better understanding of which switch suits your preferences best for your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value a light and smooth typing experience with a satisfying clacky sound, the HMX Cheese switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prioritize rapid response and instant triggering for gaming purposes, the MX Speed Silver switch with its low spring resistance and linear action is the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and specific typing or gaming needs.
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