HMX Cheese vs. HMX Sunset Gleam

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cheese and HMX Sunset Gleam both stand out as exceptional linear options, yet they offer distinctly different typing experiences. The HMX Cheese switches are celebrated for their unparalleled smoothness and a unique sound signature that is both clacky and poppy, making each keystroke feel alive and engaging. Weighing in as one of the lightest switches on the market, the Cheese is ideal for typists and gamers who prioritize fluidity and ease of actuation. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam, also known as the Duck Duck switch, strikes a balance between subtlety and satisfaction, featuring carefully selected materials that provide a smooth top-out and a refined clack complemented by HMX's renowned factory lube. While the Cheese may appeal to those seeking a vibrant auditory experience, the Sunset Gleam is perfect for users looking for a more nuanced feel with a touch of responsiveness. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Cheese Linear

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$5.50

$3.79 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the HMX Sunset Gleam, a clear distinction arises in their respective top housings. The Cheese utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer properties that absorb sound effectively. This results in a duller and more rounded auditory experience, making it appealing for those who prefer a muted typing sound. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam is equipped with a polycarbonate top housing that delivers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound, providing a more vibrant auditory feedback. For users who prioritize sound aesthetics, the translucency of polycarbonate also allows for better RGB lighting effects, adding a visual element to the typing experience.

When examining the bottom housings of both switches, a commonality emerges as both the HMX Cheese and HMX Sunset Gleam utilize nylon materials. This shared characteristic means that both switches will exhibit a deeper and fuller sound profile when bottoming out, thanks to nylon's sound-absorbing qualities. The similarities here ensure that users will experience a consistent auditory and tactile sensation during key presses, regardless of the differentiation in top housing materials. The impact of the nylon bottom housing becomes particularly evident when the switches are engaged, providing a satisfying and rounded response that can enhance the overall typing experience.

Ultimately, the contrasting materials used in the top housings of the Cheese and Sunset Gleam create unique auditory profiles, while the similarities in their bottom housings provide a cohesive element to their performance. The Nylon top housing of the Cheese gives it a more subdued sound, whereas the polycarbonate top of the Sunset Gleam introduces a sharper tone. Nevertheless, both switches benefit from the nylon bottom housing, ensuring that users can enjoy a deeper sound experience when pressing the keys down. Therefore, while each switch brings its distinct flavor to the typing experience, the complementary qualities of the bottom housing facilitate a satisfying blend of sound profiles and tactile feedback across both models.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Cheese linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, both exhibit light actuation and bottom out forces. The Cheese has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the Sunset Gleam features a slightly lighter actuation force of 42 grams but a heavier bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that for those who appreciate a lighter touch during typing, the Sunset Gleam may be preferable for the initial actuation, whereas the Cheese offers a slightly softer feel when fully pressed down. Ultimately, for users favoring a quick and effortless keystroke, both switches present relatively similar experiences, but the Sunset Gleam stands out with its lighter actuation force, while the Cheese has a marginally softer overall bottoming feel. Overall, users who prioritize minimal force for longer typing sessions may lean towards the Sunset Gleam, while those who enjoy a stronger push might find the Cheese more to their liking.

Travel distance

Both the HMX Cheese linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch have an identical travel distance of 3.5 mm, meaning that the distance each switch travels from the top to the bottom is the same. This uniformity ensures that users will experience similar tactile results when pressing down on the keys of devices equipped with either switch. Since both switches have the same travel distance, they deliver an equal feel and responsiveness in gameplay or typing experiences, allowing users to confidently choose either switch without concern for differences in travel mechanics.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profiles of the HMX Cheese and HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches offer distinct character while sharing some similarities. The Cheese switch is known for its clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, which delivers a notable auditory feedback that many typists find enjoyable and energizing. On the other hand, the Sunset Gleam switch presents a subtle top-out with a satisfying clack, tying into HMX's reputation for high-quality acoustic properties. While both switches deliver pleasing auditory experiences, the Cheese may appeal more to those who favor a pronounced and lively sound, whereas the Sunset Gleam strikes a balance with a gentler acoustics.

When it comes to feel, the Cheese switch stands out with its unparalleled smoothness, creating an incredibly satisfying typing experience that typists often cherish. This ultra-light switch promises a cushy bottom-out, making it particularly appealing for extended typing sessions. Meanwhile, the Sunset Gleam features a good combination of materials that culminates in a consistent linear feel, enhanced by excellent factory lubrication which typically results in a smooth actuation. Although both switches provide a smooth typing experience, the Cheese leans towards a lighter touch, while the Sunset Gleam focuses on a well-balanced feel that caters to various typing styles.

In conclusion, both the HMX Cheese and HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches excel in their own right, providing unique auditory and tactile experiences suited for different preferences. The Cheese is ideal for those seeking a lightweight switch with a pronounced sound, while the Sunset Gleam appeals to users desiring a balanced feel and gentle acoustic feedback. Depending on your specific tastes in sound and feel, either option could deliver an enjoyable mechanical typing experience, providing satisfaction whether you select the clacky Cheese or the subtly satisfying Sunset Gleam.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the HMX Cheese and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize an exceptionally smooth typing experience and are drawn to a lighter feel, the HMX Cheese switch may be the ideal choice for you. Its 46-gram bottom-out force feels effortless, allowing for rapid keystrokes and an enjoyable clacky sound that enhances your typing experience. On the other hand, if you lean towards a slightly heavier tactile feel with a satisfying top-out and are appreciative of the quality factory lube that HMX provides, the HMX Sunset Gleam with its 48-gram bottom-out force would be a fitting option. Its sound signature offers a crisp clack that is both polished and refined. In essence, if you value extreme smoothness and lightness, go for the Cheese, but if you prefer a bit more substance with a pleasing acoustic feedback, the Sunset Gleam is your best bet.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Cheese Linear

$5.50

$3.79 per 10

Learn more

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more