HMX Cheese vs. Bsun Olive
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Bsun Olive switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the HMX Cheese, a linear switch, and the Bsun Olive, a tactile switch, there are distinct differences to consider. The Cheese switches are praised for their smoothness and lightness, offering a satisfying and crispy typing experience with a unique sound signature. On the other hand, the Olive switches are known for their deep and resonant sound, along with pronounced tactile feedback that provides a sharp bottom-out sensation. While the Cheese switch offers a light and smooth typing experience, the Olive switch provides a tactile and satisfying feel during use. 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
65g
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
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the Bsun Olive both offer unique sound profiles, with the Cheese's nylon top housing providing a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Olive's POM top housing, which is described as more muted. However, both materials are known for absorbing sound due to their softer plastic composition, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall. This similarity in sound absorption allows both switches to offer a satisfying typing experience with reduced noise.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Nylon bottom housing of the Cheese and the POM bottom housing of the Olive both contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Nylon bottom housing of the Cheese is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound, while the POM bottom housing of the Olive offers a more muted sound profile. This difference in sound can affect the overall typing experience, as the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch will be influenced by the qualities of the bottom housing material.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the Bsun Olive offer different sound profiles, the overall typing experience of both switches is likely to be similar due to the shared characteristic of sound absorption. The Nylon and POM materials both absorb sound effectively, creating a quieter and more satisfying typing experience compared to switches with harder plastic housing materials. Additionally, the unique sound profiles of each switch, whether deeper and fuller or more muted, provide users with a range of options based on their preferences for typing sound.
Weight
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Bsun Olive tactile switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Cheese has a lighter 46 grams compared to the Olive's heavier 65 grams. This means that the Cheese would provide a more effortless typing experience with a lighter touch required for both actuation and bottom out, while the Olive would offer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel needed. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on personal preference, with some opting for the lighter Cheese for longer typing sessions and others preferring the heavier Olive for a more tactile typing feel.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm while the Bsun Olive tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be significant in most cases, as they both offer a relatively quick key press experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would likely come down to personal preference in terms of how much travel depth is desired. The Cheese switch can be considered slightly longer, but the Olive switch is also quite similar in terms of travel distance, so users can expect fairly comparable results from both options.
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 Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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 provides a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, while the Bsun Olive tactile switch delivers a resonant, deep sound that sets it apart. The Cheese switch is lighter than 90% of all switches, while the Olive switch offers a unique design with a long pole stem for a crisp, sharp bottom-out. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cheese linear switch is praised for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive tactile switch offers an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, creating a tangible typing sensation that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. The Olive switch also provides a snappy and responsive feel, thanks to its unique design and materials used in its construction.
Overall, both the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cheese switch is known for its light and satisfying sound with smooth typing experience, the Olive switch stands out with its deep and resonant sound, along with a pronounced tactile feedback. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, both switches can provide a great typing experience with their distinct characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, you should consider the typing experience you're looking for. If you prefer a lighter switch with a smooth and clacky typing feel, along with a unique sound signature, the Cheese switch would be a great option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with pronounced tactile feedback, a crisp bottom-out, and a resonant sound, the Olive switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a lighter typing experience with a distinctive sound or a medium-heavy switch with tactile feedback and a deep sound.
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