HMX Cheese vs. Everglide Sunset Yellow
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Everglide Sunset Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Cheese and Everglide Sunset Yellow both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The HMX Cheese switch is renowned for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, with a satisfying clacky sound signature and ultra-light feel. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow switch stands out for its captivating sound profile reminiscent of mahjong tiles colliding, rich bassy sound, and medium-weight feel suitable for a wide range of users. While the HMX Cheese switch may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch and crisp sound, the Sunset Yellow switch is perfect for those seeking a more indulgent typing experience with a distinct gliding 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
43g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
51g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Single-staged lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the HMX Cheese and Everglide Sunset Yellow switches differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Cheese utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow features POM top and bottom housings, resulting in a unique sound profile that is deeper and more muted compared to nylon. While both housing materials aim to create a pleasing sound, the specific characteristics of nylon and POM contribute to distinct auditory experiences.
Despite their differences, the housing materials of the HMX Cheese and Everglide Sunset Yellow switches share some similarities in their focus on producing a deeper sound profile. Both nylon and POM are chosen for their ability to absorb sound, resulting in a fuller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. This common goal of enhancing the overall sound experience highlights the importance of housing materials in determining the final auditory output of mechanical keyboards.
One key difference between the Cheese and Sunset Yellow switches lies in how the top and bottom housings contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch. The qualities of the housing material are split between the bottom and top of the switch, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel as well as the sound when letting go of a key. This division of qualities emphasizes the importance of both the top and bottom housing materials in shaping the overall typing experience on mechanical keyboards.
Weight
Comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch reveals some key differences. The Cheese switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Sunset Yellow switch also has an actuation force of 43 grams but a heavier bottom out force of 51 grams, providing a slightly more substantial feel to each keystroke. For those who prioritize a lighter typing experience for extended periods of typing or gaming, the Cheese switch may be the preferred option. However, for those who enjoy a bit more resistance and feedback in their keystrokes, the Sunset Yellow switch offers a medium-light option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Cheese linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances preferred by gamers for quicker response times. However, the Cheese switch offers a slightly longer travel distance that may provide a more substantial and satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. In terms of travel distance, the Everglide Sunset Yellow switch is the shorter option, while the HMX Cheese switch offers a slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press depth and 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 Everglide Sunset Yellow comes in at $3.09 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Cheese switch offers a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature that is unparalleled in smoothness. On the other hand, the Everglide Sunset Yellow switch provides a rich, bassy, and decadent sound reminiscent of mahjong tiles colliding. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance your typing experience, but the Cheese switch has a lighter sound while the Sunset Yellow switch has a deeper and richer sound profile due to its bassy nature.
In terms of feel, the HMX Cheese switch is known for its smoothness and pristine typing experience, while the Everglide Sunset Yellow switch offers a distinct gliding feel due to its unique Ly stem and proprietary factory lube method. The Cheese switch does not have specific descriptors for feel, but the Sunset Yellow switch is described as creamy, frictionless, and polished, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance or friction. Both switches provide a satisfying tactile feedback, but the Sunset Yellow switch may offer a slightly more luxurious typing experience due to its creamy and polished feel.
Overall, both the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch offer exceptional qualities in sound and feel. The Cheese switch excels in providing a light and crispy sound signature with unparalleled smoothness, while the Sunset Yellow switch offers a rich and decadent sound profile paired with a distinct gliding feel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, although the Sunset Yellow switch may offer a slightly more luxurious feel with its creamy and frictionless qualities. Ultimately, both switches are high-quality options that can enhance your typing experience with their unique characteristics.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter key press with a satisfying clacky sound and smooth typing experience, the Cheese switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-light key press with a rich, bassy sound profile and a creamy, frictionless typing feel, the Sunset Yellow switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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