HMX Cheese vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cheese and the Cherry Nixie both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The HMX Cheese switch is praised 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, providing a unique typing sensation. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie is celebrated for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, incorporating updated materials and springs from Cherry's MX2A update. With a blend of tradition and modern innovation, the Nixie offers a 'Textured', 'Thocky', and 'Low-pitched' typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences, but 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
63.5g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the HMX Cheese and the Cherry Nixie utilize nylon as the material for their top and bottom switch housings. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches. Nylon's softer characteristics allow it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound overall. Because both switches use the same material for their housings, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
While both the Cheese and the Nixie feature nylon housings for their switches, the differentiation lies in the impact of each housing on the overall typing experience. The bottom housing, which is responsible for the bottom-out sound and feel, will have a more significant effect on the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the top housing plays a crucial role in the sound when releasing a key. This split in housing materials allows for a balanced typing experience that takes into account both the pressing and releasing of keys, ensuring a consistent sound profile throughout typing.
Overall, the nylon housing used in both the HMX Cheese and the Cherry Nixie contributes to a unique typing experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows for better sound absorption, resulting in a rounder and duller sound compared to harder plastics. Regardless of the specific housing used, the decision to employ nylon ensures that users will enjoy a consistent typing experience with a focus on sound quality and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it is evident that the Cheese switch is lighter overall. The actuation force of the Cheese switch is 43 grams, while the Nixie switch requires 63.5 grams to actuate. Similarly, the Cheese switch has a bottom out force of 46 grams, whereas the Nixie switch bottoms out at 80 grams. This means that the Cheese switch provides a lighter typing experience overall compared to the Nixie switch. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Cheese switch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may favor the heavier forces of the Nixie switch for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When it comes to travel distance, the HMX Cheese linear switch has a distance of 3.5 mm, while the Cherry Nixie linear switch has a slightly longer distance of 4 mm. Both fall within the range of shorter travel distances compared to more traditional options. Gamers may prefer the Cheese switch for its slightly shorter distance, which can offer faster response times. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may prefer the Nixie switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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 experience with its clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, creating a satisfying auditory feedback for users. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep, rich, and mellow tone that adds a sense of sophistication to typing sessions. Both switches excel in sound quality, but the Cheese leans towards a lighter and crisper sound, while the Nixie offers a more substantial and bass-heavy feel.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the HMX Cheese linear switch is praised for its unparalleled smoothness, offering a pristine typing experience that is lightweight and effortless. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is characterized by its textured feel, providing users with a tactile sensation that some may prefer for its added friction. While the Cheese focuses on delivering a smooth and fluid typing experience, the Nixie aims to engage users with a more tactile and responsive feel, catering to different preferences in typing style.
In conclusion, the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch both offer unique qualities in sound and feel that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Cheese excels in providing a light and crisp sound with a smooth typing experience, while the Nixie delivers a deep and rich sound with a textured feel for added tactile feedback. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the two switches to enhance their typing experience based on whether they prioritize lightness and smoothness or depth and texture in their mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and durability, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for newcomers looking to delve into the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter touch and smoother typing experience, the Cheese with its 46-gram bottom out force may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a heavier and more substantial typing feel, the Nixie with its 80-gram bottom out force might be the way to go. Additionally, if you value a poppy and crispy sound profile, the Cheese is unparalleled in this aspect, while the Nixie offers a thocky and low-pitched sound that some users prefer. Lastly, if you prefer a textured typing experience, the Nixie's textured feel may be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force.
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