HMX Cheese vs. Outemu Green
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Outemu Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cheese and the Outemu Green stand out as distinct choices for enthusiasts seeking different typing experiences. The HMX Cheese switch is praised for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, offering a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. Known for being ultra-light and lighter than 90% of all switches, the Cheese switch falls into the linear category. On the other hand, the Outemu Green switch lacks specific standout features mentioned in the provided information and is classified as a clicky switch. While the HMX Cheese switch may appeal to those looking for a smooth and light typing experience, the Outemu Green switch may cater to individuals who prefer a more tactile and audible feedback. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
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
Overall, the housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the Outemu Green switches offer contrasting sound profiles due to the differences in their plastic compositions. The nylon top housing of the Cheese switch creates a duller and rounder sound, absorbing more sound due to its softer nature. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Green switch produces a sharper and crisper sound, thanks to its stiffer plastic composition. This results in a distinct difference in sound quality between the two switches, with the Cheese offering a deeper sound profile and the Green providing a clearer and more resonant sound.
While the top housings of the Cheese and Green switches showcase distinct qualities, their bottom housings share similar characteristics due to both being made of nylon. This common housing material results in a consistent deeper and fuller sound profile across the two switches. However, the division between the top and bottom housing materials in a switch can play a significant role in the overall typing experience. The impact of the bottom housing is felt when pressing down on a key, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
In the end, despite the differences in their top housing materials, the HMX Cheese and Outemu Green switches offer similar results in terms of their bottom housing's sound profile. Both switches maintain a deeper and fuller sound due to the use of nylon in their bottom housing. However, the distinct characteristics of their top housing materials contribute to the overall sound quality and typing experience of each switch. Whether you prefer a duller and rounder sound with the Cheese switch or a sharper and crisper sound with the Green switch, your choice will ultimately depend on your personal preference and typing style.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch are much lighter compared to the Outemu Green clicky switch. The Cheese requires a mere 43 grams of force to actuate and 46 grams to bottom out, making it a great choice for those looking for a feather-light typing experience. In contrast, the Green switch demands a much heavier 65 grams to actuate and a whopping 80 grams to bottom out, providing a more substantial and tactile typing feel. While both switches offer different levels of resistance, the Cheese is clearly the lighter option, perfect for extended typing sessions, while the Green switch is suited for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, users can select the switch that aligns with their preference for actuation and bottom out forces, ensuring a customized typing experience that suits their individual needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, it is clear that the Cheese has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm while the Green has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Cheese may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, whereas the longer travel distance of the Green may provide a more satisfying depth to the key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding travel distance and how it affects typing or gaming experience.
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 Outemu Green 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Cheese linear switch offers a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature that is unparalleled in smoothness. On the other hand, the Outemu Green clicky switch sound profile is unknown, but it is safe to assume that it will provide a louder and more tactile typing experience. The sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard layout and keycap material used.
In terms of feel, the HMX Cheese linear switch is known for its ultra-light and smooth typing experience, making it a favorite among users who prefer a lighter touch. The Outemu Green clicky switch's tactile feedback and resistance are unknown, but it can be assumed that it will provide a more pronounced tactile bump and springy feel while typing. Ultimately, the feel of a switch is subjective and depends on personal preference, whether you prefer a lighter or heavier actuation force.
Overall, while the HMX Cheese linear switch and Outemu Green clicky switch may offer different sound and feel experiences, they both provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a smooth and light typing experience or a more tactile and clicky feel, both switches can deliver reliable performance for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, consider the bottom out force - the Cheese is light at 46 grams while the Green is heavy at 80 grams. If you value a smooth and pristine typing experience with a light touch, as well as a satisfying clacky sound, opt for the HMX Cheese switch. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier typing feel with a loud and clicky sound, the Outemu Green switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound.
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