HMX Cheese vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cheese and SP-Star RedBlue offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The HMX Cheese is celebrated for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, with a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. These ultra-light switches are in a class of their own, being lighter than 90% of all switches. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switches are known for providing a medium-light typing experience with a relatively low-pitched sound profile. While the Cheese offers a unique typing sensation with its ultra-lightweight design, the RedBlue provides a more traditional typing experience with a medium-light touch. 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
57g
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
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The HMX Cheese and the SP-Star RedBlue both have unique housing materials that contribute to the sound profile of the switches. The Cheese's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound due to its soft and sound-absorbing nature, while the RedBlue's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer composition. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent polycarbonate housing of the RedBlue allows for RGB lighting effects, making it a visually appealing option. Despite these differences, both switches share a quality of providing a distinct sound experience based on their housing materials.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Cheese's nylon material mirrors its top housing in providing a deep and full sound profile, while the RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing continues to offer a sharp and resonant sound. However, the material of the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed. The differences between the nylon and polycarbonate housings continue to showcase the unique qualities each material brings to the overall typing experience, allowing users to choose a switch based on their preferred sound profile and feel.
When considering the impact of having different housing materials for the top and bottom of a switch, it's important to note how each material influences the overall sound profile and typing experience. The split qualities between the top and bottom housing means that the bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities provides users with a dynamic typing experience depending on the specific housing material used for each part of the switch, allowing for a customizable and unique typing experience based on individual preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, we can see that the Cheese has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the RedBlue, which has an unknown actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Cheese also has a lighter force of 46 grams, while the RedBlue has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 57 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Cheese make it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch offers a slightly heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing feel for users who prefer a bit more resistance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for typing feel and the desired weight of the keystrokes.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, making it shorter than the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch which has a travel distance of 4mm. The Cheese switch falls into the category of shorter travel distances, preferred by gamers for faster response times. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth to the key press for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preference for travel distance and desired level of key press responsiveness.
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 SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 offers a unique and satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound profile, making typing a joyful experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch provides a low-pitched sound that is more mellow and bass-heavy, giving it a different auditory appeal. Both switches offer different sound profiles that cater to individual preferences, with the Cheese being more lively and the RedBlue being more subdued.
In terms of feel, the HMX Cheese switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, but it is praised for its unparalleled smoothness and typing experience. The SP-Star RedBlue switch, on the other hand, is described as providing a mild and polished typing experience. The mild feel ensures a gentle typing experience, while the polished finish offers smooth key travel and reduced friction, enhancing the overall typing feel. Both switches offer distinct tactile feedback that will cater to different preferences.
Overall, the HMX Cheese linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cheese excels in providing a crisp and lively typing experience with a unique sound profile, while the RedBlue offers a more mellow and polished typing feel with a low-pitched sound. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit with distinct characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to choosing between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a lighter switch with a smooth typing experience and a unique sound profile, the HMX Cheese switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a medium-light typing experience and a low-pitched sound profile, the SP-Star RedBlue switch could be more suited to your liking. Consider the qualities and characteristics that are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch, and choose accordingly. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique benefits and can enhance your overall typing experience.
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