HMX Cheese vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cheese and Gateron Type A both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The HMX Cheese is praised for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, coupled with a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" offers a different experience with its innovative design that focuses on travel distances and factory lubing techniques. Positioned as a medium-weight switch, the Type A provides a sound signature on the deeper end of the spectrum. While both switches have their strengths, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the HMX Cheese and the Gateron Type A feature nylon top and bottom housings, providing a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. The nylon material used in both switches is known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller typing sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastic housings. The use of nylon in the top housing of both switches contributes to the overall sound profile when keys are pressed down.
While both switches share similar nylon housing materials, the HMX Cheese and Gateron Type A may differ in their bottom housing designs. The bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is fully pressed down. If the bottom housings of these switches vary, users may notice variations in the typing sensation between the two switches. The bottom housing material can impact the overall typing experience, providing tactile feedback and contributing to the switch's sound profile.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the HMX Cheese and Gateron Type A switches results in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The nylon material used in both the top and bottom housings of these switches offers a softer feel and sound compared to switches with harder plastic housings. While the top housing influences the sound when keys are pressed down, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback from both switches, thanks to their similar housing materials.
Weight
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In comparison, the Gateron Type A linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a better choice for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience, but the Cheese switch offers a lighter touch while the Type A switch offers a slightly heavier push feel. Overall, the choice between the two switches comes down to individual preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, making it a shorter option compared to the Gateron Type A linear switch with a travel distance of 4mm. This means that the Cheese switch requires less distance for activation compared to the Type A switch, which may appeal to users looking for quick response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Type A switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper keypress. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular in the market, catering to different preferences for keypress feel and responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and requirements.
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 Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70 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 linear switch is known for its satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, making typing a truly enjoyable auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch is characterized by a sound that leans towards the deeper side of the sound spectrum, providing a more subdued and dampened typing sound. Whether you prefer a more pronounced and lively sound or a quieter and more subtle typing experience, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
In terms of feel, the HMX Cheese linear switch offers an unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, showcasing its ultra-lightweight design that sets it apart from the majority of switches on the market. Conversely, the Gateron Type A linear switch provides a medium-weight feel, striking a balance between ease of actuation and tactile feedback. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking for a switch that offers a more traditional typing feel without sacrificing comfort or performance.
In conclusion, both the HMX Cheese and Gateron Type A linear switches offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that set them apart from each other. Depending on your preferences for typing sound and feel, you can achieve a satisfying typing experience with either switch. It is essential to consider factors such as the type of keyboard and keycaps used in conjunction with the switch to fully optimize your typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide quality options for newcomers in the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, consider the bottom out force and sound profile that best suits your preferences. If you prefer a lighter switch with a satisfyingly smooth typing experience and a clacky, poppy sound, then the HMX Cheese would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a deeper sound profile and a medium-weight feel, then the Gateron Type A would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the sound profile that you find most enjoyable.
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