HMX Cheese vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch stand out as popular options with unique characteristics. The HMX Cheese switch is renowned for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, offering a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. These ultra-light switches are lighter than 90% of all switches, providing a unique typing experience unlike any other. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch is known for its distinct clicky sound and tactile feedback. While it lacks specific standout features in comparison to the Cheese switch, it still offers a reliable and satisfying typing experience. 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
65g
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
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the Outemu Dustproof Blue, it is evident that they both use nylon for their bottom housing. This means that typing on switches with either of these materials will result in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a duller and rounder sound experience, creating a satisfying typing sensation for users.
On the other hand, the top housing material sets these switches apart, with the Cheese featuring a nylon top housing and the Dustproof Blue utilizing a polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Blue creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature, providing a more clear and resonant typing experience for users. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the typing process that the Cheese's nylon top housing may lack.
Overall, while both switches share a common bottom housing material in nylon, their top housing materials of nylon and polycarbonate respectively offer contrasting sound profiles. The Cheese with its nylon top housing provides a rounder and deeper sound, while the Dustproof Blue with its polycarbonate top housing delivers a sharper and crisper sound. The split qualities of the top and bottom housing in each switch dictate the sound experience when pressing down on a key versus letting go, enhancing the overall typing sensation for users based on their material preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch differ significantly. The Cheese has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 46 grams, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Dustproof Blue requires a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a considerably heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, offering a more substantial and pronounced typing feel. Those who prefer a more delicate touch may lean towards the Cheese switch, while users who appreciate a firmer keystroke might opt for the Dustproof Blue. The difference in force between the two switches may result in distinct typing experiences, catering to individual preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, it is clear that the Cheese has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Dustproof Blue's 4 mm. The Cheese provides a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice for gamers seeking faster input. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue offers a slightly deeper keypress with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who appreciate a more tactile feedback. Both switches offer different advantages depending on personal preference, with the Cheese being ideal for swift actions and the Dustproof Blue catering to those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes.
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 Dustproof 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 praised for its smoothness and impeccable typing experience, offering a unique and satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch does not have a well-known sound profile. When it comes to feel, the Cheese switch provides a sensation that is currently unknown, while the Dustproof Blue switch's feel is also unspecified. It is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can be influenced by various factors, including the keyboard housing and keycaps used. Overall, if both switches have similar specifications, you can expect to achieve comparable results in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a light and smooth typing experience with a satisfying sound profile, then the HMX Cheese switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a clicky sound and tactile feedback, then the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch is the better choice. Consider your typing habits, preferences, and environment when making your decision to ensure the best typing experience for you. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles, so choose wisely based on what suits you best.
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