HMX Cheese vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cheese and the Bsun Taichi present distinct options for different preferences, both within the realm of linear switches. The HMX Cheese switches are celebrated for their ultra-light design, which offers an unparalleled smoothness and a pristine typing experience, delivering a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound that appeals to those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi switches excel in their enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, thanks to their thoughtfully engineered long-pole stem and extended springs, promoting an extraordinary smoothness and stability that many enthusiasts crave. While the Cheese switches cater to those seeking a lighter touch and more pronounced acoustics, the Taichi switches offer a balance of smoothness and stability, ideal for users who prioritize consistent performance over weight. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX Cheese and Bsun Taichi keyboards utilize different materials for their top housings, setting them apart in terms of sound profile and overall user experience. The Cheese features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound. This is largely attributed to nylon's softness, which allows it to absorb sound more effectively compared to harder plastics. As a result, the sound produced when typing on switches with nylon top housings tends to be less sharp and more rounded. In contrast, the Taichi employs a polycarbonate top housing, a material characterized by its rigidity and transparency. Polycarbonate contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, leading to a more resonant typing experience. The translucence of polycarbonate also makes it more suitable for RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the keyboard.
In terms of their bottom housings, both the HMX Cheese and Bsun Taichi share the same material: nylon. As a classic choice for bottom housing, nylon helps to create that deeper and fuller sound profile associated with both keyboards. The softness of this plastic absorbs sound, resulting in a less pronounced bottom-out noise, which is particularly appealing to users who prefer a quieter typing experience. This shared characteristic of the bottom housing means that when both keyboards are pressed down, typists are likely to experience that familiar and satisfying duller sound. The consistency in bottom housing material across both models allows users to enjoy similar acoustic qualities in their keystrokes, making for a cohesive typing experience regardless of the differences in top housing materials.
When considering the overall sound and feel of both keyboards, the distinctive top housing materials create a notable contrast that influences how each keyboard performs. The Cheese, with its nylon top housing, will produce a softer and more muffled sound profile upon releasing a key, adding a layer of warmth to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Taichi’s polycarbonate top housing results in a sharper sound upon key release, eliciting a more pronounced auditory feedback. Consequently, even though both keyboards feature nylon in their bottom housings, the divergent materials in their top housings create unique auditory experiences, allowing typists to choose based on their personal preferences for sound and feel while typing. Overall, while both keyboards have similarities, their variance in top housing materials leads to fundamentally different sound profiles that shape the tactile and auditory experience for the user.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Cheese linear switch to the Bsun Taichi linear switch, notable differences arise in their actuation forces. The Cheese switch has an actuation force of 43 grams, while the Taichi is slightly lighter at 40 grams. This means that the Taichi may provide a more effortless keystroke, making it potentially more comfortable for long typing sessions or extended gaming, appealing to those who prefer lighter switches. The bottom out force for the Cheese is 46 grams, indicating a consistent resistance as the key is pressed down completely. In contrast, the Taichi's bottom out force remains unknown, making direct comparisons in that regard challenging. Overall, while both switches offer a relatively light actuation force, the Cheese is heavier at the bottom out stage, which may influence the typing experience for users who enjoy a more substantial feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, we find that the Cheese offers a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Taichi measures slightly longer at 3.6 mm. This makes the Cheese the shorter option and the Taichi the longer one. For those who prioritize responsiveness, the HMX Cheese may be the preferable choice due to its slightly shorter distance, which can facilitate quicker actuation, a feature often favored by gamers. Conversely, the Bsun Taichi, with its longer travel distance, could provide a more substantial feel for typists who appreciate a deeper key press. While the difference is minimal, it highlights the trade-off between speed and depth in switch preferences.
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 $3.99.
The Bsun Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.
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
The sound profile of the HMX Cheese linear switch is characterized by a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy signature, making each keystroke feel lively and engaging. This acoustically pleasing sound is further enhanced by the ultra-light nature of the switch, which contributes to a more dynamic typing experience. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi linear switch features an enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound made possible by its long-pole stem and extended springs. This design choice ensures a stable and smooth acoustics, creating a unique auditory feedback that may appeal to users who appreciate more pronounced auditory signals without sacrificing the clean linear operation typical of such switches.
When considering the feel, the HMX Cheese switches are renowned for their unparalleled smoothness, providing a pristine typing experience that minimizes friction and enhances overall performance. This ultra-light switch is designed to be lighter than 90% of other switches, allowing for effortless key presses that users might find especially appealing during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Taichi switch also aims for a smooth experience, thanks to its long-pole and walled stems. The focus on stability in the Taichi contributes to a consistent feel throughout the keystroke, offering reliability alongside its auditory charm.
In conclusion, both the HMX Cheese and Bsun Taichi linear switches provide unique yet satisfying experiences, with distinct sound and feel qualities catering to different preferences. Users wanting a lively, clacky sound might gravitate towards the Cheese, while those who appreciate a high-pitched acoustic cue may prefer the Taichi. Regardless of choice, both switches deliver smoothness that enhances the typing experience, and while each has its character, they offer a reliable and enjoyable performance overall.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you’re looking for a light switch that offers an unparalleled smoothness and a unique, clacky sound, the Cheese is an excellent option, especially if you enjoy a responsive and airy feel during long typing sessions. This switch excels in providing an effortless typing experience, making it ideal for those who prioritize speed and comfort. On the other hand, if you appreciate a high-pitched, resonant sound that gives you feedback with each keystroke and are seeking enhanced stability through its longer pole and extended springs, the Taichi is a superior choice. Its design offers a more controlled and stable feel, perfect for those who value precision in their typing and gaming experiences. Considering these attributes will help you decide which switch fits your needs better, whether you favor a light, crispy experience or a smooth, stable one with an enchanting sound signature.
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