HMX Cheese vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, both the HMX Cheese and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) offer unique experiences tailored to different user preferences, despite both being linear switches. The HMX Cheese is celebrated for its unparalleled smoothness and a typing experience that feels almost effortless due to its ultra-light weight, allowing users to engage with the keyboard with minimal force. Its clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature adds an auditory delight that many typists find incredibly satisfying. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) provides a more robust typing experience, featuring a PA12 top housing that softens the acoustics and a POM stem that delivers a crisp, higher-pitched resonance. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a bit more weight and substance in their keystrokes, combining sophistication with performance. Ultimately, the choice boils down to whether you prefer the light, airy feel of the Cheese or the heavier, more tactile embrace of the Xinhai. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Upon examination, the housing materials of both the HMX Cheese and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches are identical, utilizing nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This uniformity in materials contributes to a consistent sound profile across both switches. The description highlights that nylon is a classic housing material, known for its ability to absorb sound more effectively compared to harder plastics. As a result, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on either switch, equally reflecting the softer characteristics of nylon and fostering an overall duller and rounder sound. This consistency ensures that typing experiences are markedly similar for users of both switches.
While the HMX Cheese and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) share the same nylon construction, the impact of the housing on the typing experience is worth considering. The bottom housing predominantly influences the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback, while the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Given that both switches have matching nylon housing at the top and bottom, the advantages of the material are doubled, allowing for a harmonized typing experience. Users can anticipate a rich auditory feedback regardless of which switch they choose, as the nylon's characteristics dominate both aspects of the keystroke.
In summary, the same housing materials in the HMX Cheese and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) ensure that users experience a consistently rich sound profile, attributed to the unique properties of nylon. The effect of the material is evenly distributed across both switches, signaling that users prioritizing sound and feel can expect near-identical results. Therefore, whether opting for the Cheese or the Xinhai (Heavy), the shared characteristics of their nylon housings guarantee a satisfying and immersive typing experience, distinguished only by personal preferences, such as design aesthetics or switch weight.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Cheese linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cheese switch has a light actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) requires a stronger actuation force of 55 grams and has a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, which caters to those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. This significant difference in both actuation and bottom out forces means that while the Cheese is lighter and may be more comfortable for prolonged use, the Xinhai provides a firmer resistance that some users may find preferable for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, those seeking a gentle keystroke should opt for the Cheese, whereas users looking for a more robust feel might gravitate towards the Xinhai (Heavy).
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, it is clear that the Cheese switch offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Xinhai (Heavy) measures at 3.4 mm. This difference of just 0.1 mm makes the Cheese switch a better choice for those who prefer a more pronounced depth to their keystrokes, providing a tactile feedback that some users enjoy. On the other hand, the Xinhai (Heavy), with its shorter travel distance, aligns more with the preferences of gamers who favor quicker, more responsive actions, making it ideal for fast-paced environments. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness versus key depth, with the Cheese being the longer option and the Xinhai (Heavy) offering a more immediate feel.
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 HMX Xinhai (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai (Heavy) for $2.99.
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 delivers a unique auditory experience characterized by its clacky, poppy, and crispy sound profile. This switch is lighter than 90% of all switches, which contributes to its lively sound signature, making each keystroke feel vibrant and engaging. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) presents a different auditory experience with its softer acoustics profile thanks to the unique PA12 top housing. This switch combines a POM stem that produces a crisp, higher-pitched resonance, resulting in a sound that is more subtle and refined. Thus, while the Cheese emphasizes a more pronounced, energetic sound, the Xinhai (Heavy) focuses on a sophisticated and precise auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the HMX Cheese switch is celebrated for its unparalleled smoothness, providing an ultra-light typing experience that many users find highly satisfying. This smoothness contributes to a seamless and enjoyable typing experience that feels effortlessly responsive. On the other hand, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch, as the name suggests, offers a heftier feel that is distinct from the Cheese. It combines a blend of tactile feedback and resistance suitable for those who prefer a slightly more substantial keypress. Although both switches are linear, their differing lightness and heaviness bring unique nuances to the typing experience.
In summary, both the HMX Cheese and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches offer distinct yet enjoyable qualities tailored to different preferences. The Cheese is perfect for those who crave a lighter, more vibrant typing experience with a lively sound signature, while the Xinhai (Heavy) provides a sophisticated, heavier typist experience with a more subdued sound. Depending on individual typing styles and personal preferences, either switch can deliver a satisfying experience, ensuring that users can find a keyboard that truly resonates with them.
Conclusion
To conclude, the decision between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences in both feel and sound. If you seek a light and effortless typing experience combined with an enjoyable auditory feedback, the HMX Cheese would be the ideal choice for you. With its 46-gram bottom-out force, it provides an unparalleled smoothness and a delightful clacky and poppy sound profile, making it perfect for casual typing or gaming sessions where comfort and speed are paramount. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial tactile feedback with a solid build, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) may be the better option. Its 62.5-gram bottom-out force offers a heavier feel that can enhance your typing accuracy and control, while its unique material composition results in a crisp, higher-pitched resonance that adds a layer of sophistication to your keystrokes. Ultimately, choose the Cheese for a light, responsive, and fun experience, while the Xinhai (Heavy) will suit you better if you want a firmer key feel and a more refined acoustic profile.
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