HMX Cheese vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Cheese, a linear switch, to the Outemu Blue, a clicky switch, there are several key differences to consider. The HMX Cheese is best known for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience. With a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, these ultra-light switches stand out for being lighter than 90% of all switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue switch doesn't have a specific standout feature, but is widely recognized for its clicky feedback and tactile response. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, offering unique typing experiences for users. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the Outemu Blue, it is clear that they offer different sound profiles due to their composition. The Cheese's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Blue's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound profile, attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate that leads to a clear and resonant sound. Despite both being top housings, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate can significantly impact the overall sound experience of a keyboard.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both the Cheese and the Blue use nylon, resulting in a similar typing experience. The softer nature of nylon allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches, creating a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material between the two switches suggests that the tactile feedback and sound experience when pressing down on the keys may not differ significantly. As a result, users can expect a consistent feel between the two switches despite any variations in their top housing materials.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches can significantly impact the typing experience and sound profile. While the Cheese and the Blue may offer different top housing materials with nylon and polycarbonate, respectively, their shared use of nylon in the bottom housing suggests a similar tactile feedback when typing. Whether one prefers a deeper and fuller sound profile with nylon or a sharper and crisper sound profile with polycarbonate, both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it is clear that the Cheese is lighter than the Blue. The Cheese has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the Blue has an actuation force of 50 grams. The bottom out force for the Blue is not provided. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Cheese due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a heavier push feel may find the Blue more suitable. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience for users, with lighter forces being preferable for longer typing sessions and heavier forces providing a more substantial feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, the Cheese has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Blue has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Blue switch has a slightly longer travel distance than the Cheese switch. The difference in travel distance may result in a slightly different typing experience, with the Blue switch potentially feeling slightly more substantial when pressed compared to the Cheese switch. However, both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Blue switch being on the longer side and the Cheese switch falling on the shorter side. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for typing feel 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 $3.79.
The Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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
The HMX Cheese linear switch is highly regarded for its smooth and crisp typing experience, accompanied by a satisfying clacky sound that is unique to this ultra-light switch. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch is known for its distinct clicky sound profile, but without additional information provided, we cannot make a direct comparison in terms of sound between the two switches. In terms of feel, the Cheese switch offers a smooth and pristine typing experience, while the Blue switch likely provides a tactile feedback with its clicky mechanism. Overall, both switches have their own unique qualities that can cater to different preferences, and choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, for a newcomer seeking a switch with a unique sound and smooth typing experience, the HMX Cheese linear switch may be a great option, while the Outemu Blue clicky switch can provide a satisfying tactile feedback with its distinct click sound.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the HMX Cheese linear switch or the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you are someone who values a light typing experience with an ultra-smooth feel and a satisfying sound profile, then the HMX Cheese linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a tactile bump and a distinctive sound signature, the Outemu Blue clicky switch would better suit your needs. Take into account factors such as typing speed, preference for sound and feel, and overall typing experience when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, the choice is yours to make based on what will enhance your typing experience the most.
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