HMX Cheese vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Outemu Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch. 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. On the other hand, the Outemu Red switch does not have specific standout features but is known for its reliability and consistency. While the HMX Cheese switch offers a distinctive typing experience with its lightness and sound, the Outemu Red switch is a reliable choice for those looking for a more standard linear switch. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 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 Red switches differ significantly in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The Cheese uses a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Red utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, meaning that typing on switches using either material will elicit a similar deep and full sound profile.
In terms of feel, the bottom housing material plays a crucial role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch. The softer nylon bottom housing in both the Cheese and Red switches absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound upon key press. On the other hand, the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key, with the polycarbonate top housing of the Red switch leading to a more clear and resonant sound profile compared to the duller sound produced by the nylon top housing of the Cheese switch. Despite these differences, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the combination of their housing materials.
Overall, the choice between the HMX Cheese and Outemu Red switches boils down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics. The use of nylon in both switches provides a classic typing experience with a deep and full sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Red switch offers a sharper and crisper sound with the added benefit of translucency for RGB lighting. Whether you prefer a softer, rounder sound or a clearer, resonant sound, both switches deliver a unique typing experience that is sure to enhance your overall typing satisfaction.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, it is evident that the Cheese is the lighter option of the two. The actuation force of the Cheese is 43 grams, while the actuation force of the Red is slightly heavier at 46 grams. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Cheese is 46 grams, lighter than the Red which has a bottom out force of 62 grams. This means that the Cheese switch requires a lighter touch to actuate and bottom out compared to the Red switch, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. On the other hand, the Red switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces, catering to those who prefer a stronger push feel. In terms of actuation and bottom out forces, choosing between the Cheese and Red switches ultimately depends on personal preference for typing feel and force feedback.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Cheese linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Cheese has a shorter travel distance compared to the Red. The traditional travel distance for switches is around 4.0 mm, so the Red falls in line with that standard. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the Cheese a popular choice for gaming setups. However, some users may find that shorter travel distances feel too abrupt, in which case the Red with its longer travel distance would be a better option for those seeking a deeper keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and desired keyboard 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 $3.99.
The Outemu Red 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 offers a distinct sound profile that is characterized by its satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy noise, providing a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Red linear switch does not have a specific sound reputation mentioned, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison. When it comes to feel, the HMX Cheese switch is celebrated for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, offering a unique tactile feedback that promotes efficient typing. The Outemu Red switch lacks information on its feel, making it challenging to compare to the Cheese switch in this aspect.
Overall, the HMX Cheese linear switch stands out for its smoothness, lightness, and distinctive sound signature, providing a premium typing experience. While the Outemu Red linear switch lacks specific descriptions of its sound and feel qualities, it is important to note that individual preferences and typing styles play a significant role in determining the ideal switch for each user. In conclusion, both switches may offer similar performance if you prefer a lighter switch, but the HMX Cheese switch provides a more detailed and well-rounded subjective experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prioritize a lighter typing experience, with a bottom out force of 46 grams, and value a smooth and pristine typing experience with a satisfying clacky sound, the HMX Cheese switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier typing experience, with a bottom out force of 62 grams, and do not have a specific preference for sound or feel, the Outemu Red switch could be a good option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference based on bottom out force, sound, and feel.
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