HMX Cheese vs. TTC Silent Bluish White (V2)
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the HMX Cheese, a linear switch, and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2), a tactile switch. The HMX Cheese is renowned for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, offering a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature that sets it apart from others. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White (V2) provides a medium tactile feel with a precise level of resistance when pressed, ensuring a comfortable typing experience without being too loud. While the Cheese switch is lighter and offers a unique typing experience, the Silent Bluish White (V2) switch provides a quieter and more subtle typing experience, making it ideal for shared spaces or office environments. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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 main difference between the housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) lies in the top housing. The Cheese features a softer nylon top housing that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Silent Bluish White (V2) has a stiffer polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. While the Cheese offers a rounder and duller sound, the Silent Bluish White (V2) provides a more clear and resonant sound, particularly noticeable when using RGB lighting due to the translucency of polycarbonate.
On the other hand, both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The similarities in the bottom housing material mean that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel between the HMX Cheese and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2). However, it's important to note that the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of a key press, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, the choice between the HMX Cheese and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) will ultimately come down to preference in sound profile and aesthetics. The softer nylon material of the Cheese will provide a more muted and round sound, while the stiffer polycarbonate of the Silent Bluish White (V2) will offer a crisper and more resonant sound. Both switches offer a consistent bottom housing material, ensuring a similar typing experience in terms of feel. Whether you prefer a deeper, fuller sound or a sharper, higher-pitched sound, both switches provide unique qualities based on their different top housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch, we see that both switches fall on the lighter end of the force spectrum. The Cheese has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Silent Bluish White (V2) at 42 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Cheese requires 46 grams, while the Silent Bluish White (V2) needs 50 grams. Both switches offer a light typing experience, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. However, the Silent Bluish White (V2) does have a slightly heavier bottom out force, which may provide a firmer and more satisfying typing feel for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
Both the HMX Cheese linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either switch, you will experience the same level of key travel. The travel distance of both switches being equal ensures that users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and responsiveness. Therefore, whether you choose the HMX Cheese linear switch or the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch, you can be confident that you will have a consistent typing experience 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 TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $4.63.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX Cheese linear switch offers a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature that is sure to please enthusiasts looking for a unique auditory experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch provides a muted sound profile that minimizes noise, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience, especially in office or shared living environments. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel, the HMX Cheese switch is known for its unparalleled smoothness and lightweight actuation, providing users with a pristine and effortless typing experience. In comparison, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch offers a buttery and mild tactile feel, striking a balance between comfort and precision. Additionally, the stepped nature of the Silent Bluish White (V2) switch provides users with a unique typing sensation that combines a gentle resistance with a subtle key feel, all while maintaining a polished and refined typing experience.
Overall, both the HMX Cheese linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences and typing needs. If you're seeking a switch with a lively sound and lightweight actuation, the Cheese switch is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter typing experience with a balanced tactile feel, the Silent Bluish White (V2) switch is an excellent option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific environment in which you'll be using your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch, you should consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prioritize a smooth and light typing experience with a satisfying clacky sound, the HMX Cheese switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium tactile feel with a quieter typing experience suitable for office or shared living spaces, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switch is the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a light and crisp typing experience or a more tactile and muted one.
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