HMX Cheese vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the HMX Cheese and the Outemu Phoenix. The HMX Cheese switch is a linear switch that offers an unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience. Known for its satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, these ultra-light switches are lighter than 90% of all switches on the market. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix is a clicky switch that stands out with its under-skirt click mechanism, making it one of the most unique clicky switches available today. It features a crystalline and sparkling type feel and sound profile. The Cheese switch is best suited for those who prioritize smoothness and a lightweight typing experience, while the Phoenix switch is ideal for those who prefer a crunchy and polished typing feel with a distinct audible click. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the Outemu Phoenix, it is evident that they offer different sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Cheese's nylon top and bottom housing create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound and results in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Phoenix's polycarbonate top and bottom housing produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile as a result of polycarbonate's stiffer nature, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the Phoenix's clear polycarbonate housing is ideal for RGB lighting, while the Cheese's opaque nylon housing offers a classic look.
Despite their differences, both the HMX Cheese and the Outemu Phoenix use high-quality materials for their housing. The nylon and polycarbonate materials used in the Cheese and Phoenix, respectively, are known for their durability and reliability in switch housings. Although they may offer different sound profiles and tactile experiences, both materials are trusted options in the mechanical keyboard community for their respective qualities. Whether you prefer a deeper sound profile with the Cheese or a crisper sound profile with the Phoenix, both options offer a premium experience.
When considering the impact of top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound and feel of a switch, it becomes clear that the Cheese and Phoenix each have their strengths. The bottom housing material has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, determining the overall typing experience when pressing down on a key. Conversely, the top housing material plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key, emphasizing the importance of both components in creating a well-rounded typing experience. By understanding the qualities of nylon and polycarbonate housing materials, keyboard enthusiasts can choose the switch that best suits their preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
The HMX Cheese linear switch is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch. The Cheese requires 43 grams of force to actuate and 46 grams to bottom out, while the Phoenix has an unknown actuation force and 62 grams to bottom out. This makes the Cheese ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, such as for work or long gaming sessions. In contrast, the Phoenix offers a more substantial typing feel with its heavier bottom out force, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, the Cheese offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Phoenix's 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for quick response times, such as gamers. The slight difference in travel distance may not be significant enough to notice a tangible difference in performance between the two switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference regarding the feel of the key press and how it impacts typing or gaming experience. Whether you choose the Cheese or the Phoenix, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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 known for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, accompanied by a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch stands out for its unique under-skirt click mechanism, providing a crystalline and sparkling typing feel and sound profile. When it comes to sound, the Cheese offers a yet-to-be-determined quality, but the Phoenix is described as having a crunchy sound similar to stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. As for the feel, we still have to determine the exact qualities of the Cheese, but the Phoenix is said to have a polished feel, indicating a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, while both switches offer distinct sound and feel characteristics, choosing between them will ultimately come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience that each user is looking for.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, consider your preferences for typing experience and sound profile. If you prioritize a smooth and light typing experience with a satisfying clacky sound, the HMX Cheese switch would be a great choice for you. However, if you prefer a unique under-skirt click mechanism with a crystalline and sparkling sound profile, the Outemu Phoenix switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision will come down to your personal preference for typing feel and sound signature.
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