HMX Cheese vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the HMX Cheese and the Dareu Snow, both of which are linear switches. The HMX Cheese switch is renowned for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, offering a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. These ultra-light switches are lighter than 90% of all switches, making them a popular choice among those who prefer a lighter touch while typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch sets itself apart with its innovative use of POK material for both the top housing and stem, resulting in a deeper sound signature. Categorized as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy', the Snow switch offers a unique typing experience that may appeal to those looking for a switch with a different 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
50g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the Dareu Snow, it is clear that the Cheese utilizes a nylon top housing, while the Snow features a POK top housing. The nylon top housing of the Cheese provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic nature, which absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the POK top housing of the Snow offers excellent durability and smoothness, with 14 times stronger wear resistance than POM. While both materials contribute to a quality typing experience, the Cheese emphasizes sound profile, while the Snow focuses on durability and smooth keystrokes.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Cheese and the Snow utilize nylon materials. This choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches, as nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. Despite both switches sharing the same bottom housing material, the emphasis on sound profile and typing experience may differ due to other components within the switches. However, the presence of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the HMX Cheese and the Dareu Snow plays a significant role in shaping the typing experience for users. While the Cheese's nylon top housing provides a unique sound profile, the Snow's POK top housing offers superior durability and smoothness. On the other hand, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, contributing to a consistent deep and full sound profile during typing. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a high-quality typing experience, each with its own unique characteristics influenced by their housing materials.
Weight
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Dareu Snow linear switch. The Cheese has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it a lighter option. In contrast, the Snow has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight option. Those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Cheese, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may prefer the Snow. Both switches provide different experiences due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Cheese linear switch is slightly longer at 3.5 mm compared to the Dareu Snow linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. However, the Cheese switch may provide a slightly deeper feeling when pressed compared to the Snow switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in regards to the level of responsiveness and depth desired in typing or gaming experiences.
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 Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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 signature, creating a unique typing experience that stands out from the rest. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch offers a deeper sound with a thocky tone, thanks to its innovative use of POK material in the top housing and stem. Depending on personal preference, users may prefer the crisp sound of the Cheese or the deep thocky sound of the Snow, both providing distinct auditory experiences that enhance typing enjoyment.
Moving on to feel, the HMX Cheese switch is praised for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, offering a tactile sensation that is truly exceptional. Conversely, the Dareu Snow switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation that makes typing feel lively and responsive. While the Cheese switch focuses on smoothness, the Snow switch emphasizes a bouncy feedback, catering to users who prefer a more dynamic typing experience.
In conclusion, the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cheese switch excels in providing a smooth and crisp typing experience with a clacky sound, while the Snow switch delivers a deep and thocky sound with a bouncy tactile feedback. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches depends on personal preference for sound and feel, as both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience in their own distinct ways. Whether opting for the Cheese or the Snow, users can expect a high-quality and enjoyable typing experience that aligns with their preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter typing experience, with a bottom out force of 46 grams, the Cheese switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier feel with a bottom out force of 60 grams, the Snow switch may be more suitable. Additionally, if you prioritize a smooth, clacky sound with an ultra-light switch, the Cheese switch would be the way to go. However, if you value a deeper, thocky sound with innovative POK material, the Snow switch may be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound.
Mentioned in this article
