HMX Cheese vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cheese and Outemu Ocean offer unique typing experiences to cater to different preferences. The HMX Cheese switch is renowned for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, making it a popular choice among those who value a light and responsive feel. With a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, these ultra-light switches stand out as lighter than 90% of all switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean switch provides a tactile feedback that some users find more satisfying for typing tasks. While not much is known about its specific features, it falls under the tactile category of switches. The decision between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference - do you prioritize a smoother and lighter typing experience, or do you prefer a more tactile and responsive feel? 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
55g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Cheese and Outemu Ocean switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound profiles. The Cheese switch utilizes a nylon top housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Ocean switch features a polycarbonate top housing that delivers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials are classic switch housing options, they offer contrasting auditory experiences for users.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Cheese and Ocean switches utilize nylon, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound effectively, creating a duller and rounder sound that enhances the typing experience for users. With the bottom housing material being consistent between the two switches, users can expect a similar tactile sensation and sound profile upon pressing the keys, regardless of the differences in the top housing material.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings play distinct roles in influencing the overall sound profile and typing experience of a switch. While the bottom housing primarily impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when the keys are pressed, the top housing has a more significant influence on the sound produced when a key is released. By understanding the nuances of each housing material, users can select switches that align with their preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Whether opting for the Cheese with its nylon top and bottom housing or the Ocean with its polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing, users can achieve varying but equally satisfying results based on their desired sound characteristics.
Weight
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Cheese requires 46 grams of force to bottom out, while the Ocean's bottom out force is unknown. The Cheese provides a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for longer typing sessions, while the Ocean offers a more substantial push feel for those who prefer a heavier typing experience. Both switches have different actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences in typing feel.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch. The Cheese provides a quicker response time, making it ideal for gamers looking for speed and efficiency. On the other hand, the Ocean offers a slightly deeper key press, which some users may find more satisfying for typing or other tasks that require a more deliberate touch. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distance, so choosing between them will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user. Ultimately, the shorter distance of the Cheese may provide a faster typing experience, while the longer distance of the Ocean could offer a more traditional and tactile feel.
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 $2.99.
The Outemu Ocean 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 renowned for its smoothness and pristine typing experience, with a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. These ultra-light switches offer a unique typing feel that is unmatched by most switches on the market. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch does not have a well-known description for sound or feel. It is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In conclusion, the HMX Cheese linear switch stands out for its exceptional smoothness, lightness, and distinct sound profile, making it a popular choice among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Meanwhile, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch may offer a different typing experience, but lacks the same level of recognition for its sound and feel qualities. Ultimately, when choosing between the two switches, keep in mind that the typing experience is subjective and can vary depending on personal preferences and other components used in your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the HMX Cheese linear switch or the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prioritize a smooth and light typing experience with a satisfying sound signature, then the Cheese switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile feedback with a higher bottom out force, then the Ocean switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what aspects are most important to you when making your decision.
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