HMX Cheese vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the HMX Cheese and the SP-Star Yanyu. The HMX Cheese switch is praised for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, offering a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. These ultra-light switches are lighter than 90% of all switches, making them ideal for those who prefer a light touch while typing. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switch is perfect for individuals looking for a more delicate typing experience or those who type for long periods of time. With a material blend that gives it a crisp sound profile, the Yanyu switch is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs, 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the SP-Star Yanyu switches both incorporate nylon, a classic switch housing material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, the Yanyu takes it a step further by blending Polymer nylon with UHMWPE, creating a unique sound profile that leans towards the brighter side compared to the Cheese. This blend offers a pleasant sound experience that differs slightly from the duller and rounder sound produced by the Cheese's nylon housing. Overall, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, but the Yanyu offers a distinct sound profile that may appeal to those looking for a slightly brighter tone.
In terms of the bottom housings, the HMX Cheese and the SP-Star Yanyu switches continue to showcase their unique blend of materials. While the Cheese uses nylon for its bottom housing, the Yanyu incorporates the Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend, resulting in a different impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. The Yanyu's bottom housing contributes to its overall sound profile, which is described as pleasant and brighter compared to the Cheese's duller and rounder sound. This difference in material composition highlights how the housing materials can influence the overall typing experience and sound output of each switch.
Overall, the HMX Cheese and the SP-Star Yanyu switches demonstrate how housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile of mechanical keyboards. Both switches utilize nylon in their housing materials, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, the Yanyu's unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE sets it apart from the Cheese, offering a slightly brighter sound that may appeal to those seeking a different typing experience. Despite their differences, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, showcasing how housing materials can impact the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is evident that the Cheese switch is lighter in both aspects. The actuation force of the Cheese switch is 43 grams, while the Yanyu switch does not have a specified actuation force. The bottom out force of the Cheese switch is 46 grams, while the Yanyu switch has a bottom out force of 43 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Cheese switch make it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. In contrast, the Yanyu switch may provide a slightly firmer typing feel due to its slightly heavier bottom out force. Overall, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may prefer the Cheese switch, while those who prefer a slightly heavier typing feel may opt for the Yanyu switch.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Cheese linear switch is 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch. The shorter travel distance of the Cheese switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Yanyu switch may provide a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
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 SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX Cheese linear switch is best known for its satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, thanks to its ultra-light design, making it lighter than 90% of all switches. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. The choice of board and keycaps can also affect the overall sound of the switches.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cheese linear switch offers an unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, while the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is known for providing a more delicate typing experience, perfect for extended typing sessions. The Yanyu switch is also described as feathery, offering a light and comfortable typing feel with reduced finger fatigue.
Overall, both the HMX Cheese and SP-Star Yanyu linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The HMX Cheese switch provides a clacky and crisp sound with a smooth typing experience, while the Yanyu switch offers a delicate and feathery feel suitable for extended typing sessions. Depending on personal preference and typing needs, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that newcomers to mechanical keyboards can enjoy a tailored experience based on their preferences. Additionally, both switches offer a satisfying experience that can cater to a wide range of users, whether they prefer a light and crisp typing feel or a gentle and feathery touch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, consider the specific typing experience you are looking for. If you prioritize a light keypress with a satisfying sound profile, the HMX Cheese switch might be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a delicate typing experience with a crisp sound and a comfortable feel, the SP-Star Yanyu switch could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style when making your decision.
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