HMX Cheese vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cheese and Outemu Gold offer unique typing experiences for users to enjoy. The HMX Cheese switch is praised for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, making it a popular choice for those who value a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold switch is known for its distinct clicky feedback with each key press. While the Cheese switch is categorized as a linear switch, the Gold switch falls under the clicky switch category. If you're looking for a lighter and smoother typing experience, the HMX Cheese may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile and clicky feel while typing, the Outemu Gold could be the switch for you. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
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
The housing materials of the HMX Cheese and Outemu Gold switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound profiles. The Cheese's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and producing a duller, rounder tone. In contrast, the Gold's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound that is clear and resonant, thanks to its stiffer plastic properties. While both materials have their unique sound profiles, the choice between them ultimately depends on whether one prefers a deeper, fuller sound (Cheese) or a sharper, crisper sound (Gold).
On the other hand, when comparing the bottom housings of the HMX Cheese and Outemu Gold switches, both consist of nylon material, which results in a similar typing experience. The nylon bottom housing in both switches provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to their respective top housings. This consistency in material for the bottom housing ensures that users can still experience the desired sound characteristics, even if there are differences in the top housing materials. Ultimately, the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a duller and rounder sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience.
In utilizing different materials for the top and bottom housings of switches, manufacturers can cater to specific preferences in sound and feel. The characteristics of the housing materials are divided between the top and bottom of the switch, influencing the sound profile during both key press and release. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. By understanding the role of each housing material, users can choose switches that align with their preferred sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it is clear that the Cheese is the lighter option. The Cheese has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the Gold has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Cheese requires a lighter touch to activate and bottom out compared to the Gold. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may appreciate the Cheese, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the Gold offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Gold clicky switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Cheese switch falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it a popular choice among gamers for its faster response times. On the other hand, the Gold switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a more substantial key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Both switches offer unique experiences based on their travel distances, catering to different preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two comes down to whether you prefer a shorter, snappier key press or a longer, more pronounced actuation.
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 Gold 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
In conclusion, when comparing the subjective qualities of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it is evident that they offer contrasting experiences. The HMX Cheese linear switch provides a smooth and pristine typing experience with a satisfying clacky sound, making it suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold clicky switch is known for its clicky sound signature, giving a more tactile feedback to the user. When it comes to feel, the differences in actuation force and tactile feedback also play a significant role in the overall typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on individual preferences regarding sound, feel, and typing style. However, if one is looking for a lighter switch for a smoother typing experience, the Cheese would be a suitable option, while the Gold switch would be more appropriate for those who enjoy a clicky and tactile typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, you should consider the following factors. If you value a lighter bottom out force, smooth typing experience, and a unique sound profile with a satisfying clacky and poppy sound, then the HMX Cheese linear switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and crisp clicky feedback, the Outemu Gold clicky switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and force required for key presses.
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