HMX Cheese vs. Outemu Purple
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Outemu Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Cheese linear switch to the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it becomes clear that they offer unique features to suit different preferences. The HMX Cheese stands out for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, delivering a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. These ultra-light switches are lighter than 90% of all switches and provide a unique feel while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple switch offers tactile feedback, making it ideal for those who prefer a more pronounced bump when typing. While the Cheese switch excels in smoothness and lightness, the Purple switch focuses on providing tactile feedback for a different 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
The housing materials of the HMX Cheese and Outemu Purple switches differ in terms of the top housing material used. The Cheese features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Purple utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials are effective in enhancing sound quality, the Cheese's nylon top housing produces a rounder sound compared to the more resonant sound of the Purple's polycarbonate top housing.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials of the HMX Cheese and Outemu Purple switches are the same, both constructed from nylon. This commonality means that typing on switches using either the Cheese or Purple will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches contributes to a duller and rounder sound, providing a consistent typing experience regardless of the switch variant chosen.
Overall, the choice between the HMX Cheese and Outemu Purple switches comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The Cheese's nylon top housing offers a deeper and rounder sound, ideal for those who prefer a softer typing experience. In contrast, the Purple's polycarbonate top housing delivers a sharper and more resonant sound, appealing to those who prefer a crisper typing sound. While the bottom housing materials are the same, the differences in top housing materials highlight the unique sound profiles each switch offers, providing options for users with varying preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Outemu Purple tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 50 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Cheese requires 46 grams, while the Purple's bottom out force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Cheese switch may be the better option, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the Purple switch may appeal to individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer different weight options to cater to varying preferences, ensuring that users can find a switch that best suits their typing needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it is clear that the Cheese has a shorter travel distance at 3.5 mm compared to the Purple's 4 mm. The Cheese's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, while the Purple's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more traditional feel. Both switches offer distinct advantages based on their travel distances, but ultimately the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and desired typing 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 Purple 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 provides an unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, accompanied by a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. These ultra-light switches offer a unique typing experience that is lighter than 90% of all switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple tactile switch's sound profile is unknown, making it difficult to compare directly in this aspect. When it comes to feel, the Cheese switch offers a yet undefined tactile experience, while the Purple switch's tactile feedback remains a mystery. Both switches are likely to provide different typing experiences due to their unique design and properties. Ultimately, choosing between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch will come down to personal preference, as both switches offer their own distinct qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and light typing experience with a satisfying sound profile, the HMX Cheese linear switch would be the way to go. These switches offer an unparalleled typing experience with their light bottom out force and unique sound signature. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile typing experience with a different feel, then the Outemu Purple tactile switch may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the HMX Cheese and Outemu Purple switches will come down to your personal typing preferences and what type of typing experience you value the most.
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