HMX Cheese vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cheese and the Kailh Sage offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The HMX Cheese is a linear switch known for its unparalleled smoothness and lightness, providing a satisfyingly subtle typing experience with a unique clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage is a clicky switch that offers a sharp and weighty typing experience, delivering a refreshing clickiness with each keystroke. While the Cheese switch may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch and quieter typing experience, the Sage switch is perfect for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback. 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 for the HMX Cheese and the Kailh Sage switches differ significantly in terms of sound profiles. The Cheese's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder tone. In contrast, the Sage's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound that is clear and resonant. While both materials have their own unique qualities, the nylon top housing of the Cheese offers a more muted and softer sound compared to the crisper and more defined sound of the polycarbonate top housing of the Sage.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Cheese and the Sage switches utilize nylon material, which results in a similar deep and full sound profile. However, it is worth noting that the impact of the bottom housing on the overall sound and feel of the switch is more prominent during bottom-out moments. This means that typing on switches with nylon bottom housing, such as both the Cheese and the Sage, will elicit a consistent deep and full sound, providing a familiar typing experience across both switches. Overall, the bottom housing material plays a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of the key press, regardless of the switch model.
While the top and bottom housings of the Cheese and the Sage switches may differ in material, the overall typing experience may not vary significantly. The split qualities of the housing materials between the top and bottom result in a balanced sound profile during key presses. The bottom housing's impact on the sound and feel of the switch during pressing is complemented by the top housing's influence on the sound upon key release. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, with the Cheese providing a softer and rounder sound profile due to its nylon top housing, while the Sage offers a sharper and more resonant sound with its polycarbonate top housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it is clear that the Cheese switch is lighter overall. The Cheese switch has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, providing a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Sage switch has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium to heavy switch. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Cheese switch would be the better option. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Sage switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience and feel of a switch, catering to different preferences and needs.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Cheese linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Kailh Sage clicky switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Despite this slight difference, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are favored by gamers for their faster response times. This means that when using either switch, you can expect similar results in terms of keypress speed and actuation. Choosing between the two would come down to personal preference - if you prefer a slightly longer travel distance for a more substantial keypress feel, the Kailh Sage switch would be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a shorter travel distance for quicker response times, the HMX Cheese switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer a good balance between responsiveness and keypress depth, making them both viable options for different types of users.
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 Sage 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
Overall, the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch offer contrasting typing experiences. The Cheese switch is praised for its smoothness and lightness, providing a subtle and satisfying typing experience with a unique sound profile. On the other hand, the Sage switch offers a heavier feel with a distinct clickiness that some may find invigorating and sharp. When it comes to sound, the Cheese switch produces a clacky, poppy sound, while the Sage switch offers a crunchy clicky sound. In terms of feel, the Cheese switch is known for its smoothness, while the Sage switch provides a sharp and crisp tactile bump. Ultimately, choosing between these switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Both switches offer quality performance, so you can expect similar results in terms of durability and reliability.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and light 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 distinct clicky typing experience with a heavier bottom out force and a sharp clickiness, the Kailh Sage clicky switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing style and sound preference. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best aligns with your typing needs.
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