HMX Cheese vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cheese and the Gateron Quinn stand out as popular options in the market. The HMX Cheese is a linear switch best known for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience. These ultra-light switches provide a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, making them a unique choice for those who prefer a lighter switch. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn is a tactile switch that offers a combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile. With each keystroke, users can expect a precise, clean, and crisp tactile bump that adds character to the typing experience. While each switch has its own strengths and appeal, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
59g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the HMX Cheese and Gateron Quinn switches use nylon for both their top and bottom housing materials, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This similarity means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either switch.
However, despite both switches utilizing nylon for their housing, there may still be subtle differences in how the top and bottom housings impact the overall typing experience. The bottom housing of a switch typically has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing can affect the sound when a key is released. This differentiation could result in a slightly varied typing sensation between the HMX Cheese and Gateron Quinn switches, even though they share the same housing material.
In conclusion, while the HMX Cheese and Gateron Quinn switches share the same nylon housing material, there may be nuances in how the top and bottom housings contribute to the overall typing experience. Both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile characteristic of nylon housing, but slight variations in the impact of each housing component could result in a slightly different typing feel between the two switches. Overall, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality and material composition when using either the HMX Cheese or Gateron Quinn switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it becomes apparent that the Cheese is lighter in both aspects. The Cheese has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it a light switch overall. In contrast, the Quinn features a higher actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Cheese for extended typing or gaming sessions, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the Quinn for its heavier forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum in terms of travel distance, making them ideal for those looking for faster response times, especially gamers. The slight difference of 0.1 mm between the two may not be noticeable to most users, so in terms of practical use, they would likely provide similar results. However, if one were to nitpick, the HMX Cheese switch would have a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gateron Quinn switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two would come down to personal preference for a slightly shorter or longer 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 Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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 is best known for its satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound profile, providing an immersive auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a deep, resonant sound with a touch of character, thanks to its specially designed nylon housings. The Quinn switch provides a rich and immersive sound that complements the crisp tactile bump users can expect.
In terms of feel, the HMX Cheese linear switch is known for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, offering a unique typing sensation that is hard to beat. Conversely, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is described as snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy, providing a smooth and fluid typing experience with a prominent amount of tactility. Users can expect a lively feel with a rebound effect when pressing the keys, along with reduced friction and a sleek typing experience.
In conclusion, both the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cheese switch provides a clacky and crispy sound with unparalleled smoothness in typing, the Quinn switch offers a deep, resonant sound with a precise and clean tactile bump. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience each user is looking for. Rest assured, with either switch, you can expect a high-quality typing experience that is both satisfying and enjoyable.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light and smooth typing experience with a satisfying clacky sound, the HMX Cheese linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy tactile bump with a deep and resonant sound profile, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Consider your typing style, sound preference, and desired level of tactile feedback when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so selecting the one that aligns with your personal preferences will ensure an enjoyable typing experience.
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