HMX Cheese vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the HMX Cheese, a linear switch, and the Kailh Plum, a tactile switch. The HMX Cheese is praised for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, with a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum is known for its unique combination of weightiness without a pronounced tactile bump, offering a different tactile experience compared to traditional tactile switches. While the Cheese is ideal for those who prefer a light and smooth typing experience, the Plum may appeal to those who enjoy a slightly heavier switch with a unique 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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 Kailh Plum switches both play a significant role in the sound profile produced during typing. While the Cheese utilizes a nylon top housing, which tends to create a deeper and fuller sound, the Plum features a polycarbonate top housing that results in a sharper and crisper sound. This contrast highlights how the choice of housing material can greatly influence the overall typing experience and sound feedback for users. Despite this difference, both switches have nylon bottom housings, emphasizing the importance of this classic switch housing material in providing a deeper and fuller sound profile.
In terms of aesthetics, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Kailh Plum switch allows for a clear housing, which is ideal for those who want to utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the HMX Cheese's nylon top housing may not allow for the same level of translucency and visual appeal when paired with RGB lighting. This difference in material choice showcases how the housing material can impact not only the sound profile but also the overall look and customization options available for users. However, both switches share the same nylon bottom housing, indicating a similarity in the typing experience provided by this classic switch material.
Overall, the contrasting housing materials of the HMX Cheese and Kailh Plum switches demonstrate the varying effects different materials can have on the sound profile and aesthetics of mechanical switches. While the Cheese's nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound, the Plum's polycarbonate top housing produces a clearer and resonant sound. Despite these differences, both switches feature nylon bottom housings, resulting in a similar deep and fuller sound profile during typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preferences regarding sound, aesthetics, and customization options.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it is evident that the Cheese is lighter in both aspects. The actuation force of the Cheese is 43 grams, while the Plum's actuation force is unknown. However, the bottom out force of the Cheese is 46 grams, whereas the Plum has a bottom out force of 70 grams. This makes the Plum switch heavier in comparison. Individuals who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Cheese switch, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the heavier Plum switch. Both switches offer distinct advantages based on personal preferences, with the actuation and bottom out forces playing a significant role in determining the overall typing feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Cheese linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range, making them more suitable for users who prefer quicker response times, such as gamers. The slight difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to most users, but those looking for a slightly deeper keypress may prefer the Kailh Plum switch. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and keypress 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 $3.79.
The Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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 stands out for its distinctive clacky, poppy, and crispy sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory experience for typists. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, which is described as moderate and suitable for various typing scenarios. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is subjective and can be influenced by factors such as keycaps and keyboard build.
Regarding feel, the HMX Cheese linear switch offers an unparalleled smoothness and typing experience, emphasizing its ultra-lightweight nature. In contrast, the Kailh Plum tactile switch provides a gentle and mild typing experience, with a unique lack of a pronounced tactile bump. Additionally, the Plum switch features a stepped feel, which adds a nuanced typing sensation compared to more traditional tactile switches. Typists looking for a softer and more approachable typing feel may appreciate the qualities of the Plum switch.
In conclusion, the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cheese switch excels in providing a clacky and satisfying sound profile with its ultra-lightweight design, the Plum switch offers a unique tactile experience with its lack of a pronounced bump and stepped feel. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, both switches can provide a pleasant typing experience, albeit with different characteristics. Typists can experiment with both switches to determine which one aligns best with their individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a light and smooth typing experience with a satisfying clacky sound, the HMX Cheese linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier switch with a unique tactile feel and a neutral sound profile, then the Kailh Plum tactile switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and sound characteristics. Consider your typing style and preferences when choosing between these two exceptional mechanical keyboard switches.
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