HMX Cheese vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Cheese and the Outemu Yellow Silver mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes evident that both have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The HMX Cheese switch is celebrated for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, along with a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch stands out for its light actuation force and neutral sound profile, making it ideal for gamers and typists who prioritize speediness and responsiveness. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches offer distinct sound profiles due to their different compositions. The Cheese's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Yellow Silver's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, as the stiffer plastic leads to a more clear and resonant sound. The choice between nylon and polycarbonate top housing can significantly impact the auditory experience of typing on these switches.
While the top housings of the Cheese and Yellow Silver switches differ in material, their nylon bottom housings are the same, offering a similar typing experience. Both nylon bottom housings elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material may result in a consistent feel when pressing down on the switches, contributing to a cohesive typing experience regardless of the differences in the top housings.
The division of housing materials between the top and bottom of a switch influences the overall sound profile and feel of typing on the switch. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as depth and fullness in sound, impact the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the key. In contrast, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Understanding how the combination of different housing materials affects the typing experience can help users choose the switches that best suit their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it a suitable option for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In comparison, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a medium-light feel. The Cheese switch would be more preferable for users who want a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Yellow Silver switch would be better suited for those who prefer a slightly heavier key press for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, but the Cheese switch is lighter overall compared to the Yellow Silver switch.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Cheese has a shorter travel distance compared to the Yellow Silver. The traditional travel distance is 4.0 mm, making the Yellow Silver more in line with the standard. Gamers may prefer the Cheese for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer more depth in their keystrokes may opt for the Yellow Silver. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of tactile feedback and typing comfort, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
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 Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40 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 renowned for its satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, making typing on these switches a truly delightful experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile, which is favorable for those who prioritize speediness and responsiveness in their typing or gaming experience. While the Cheese offers a unique sound that stands out among linear switches, the Yellow Silver provides a more versatile option with its moderate sound profile that can cater to a wide range of users.
In terms of feel, the HMX Cheese linear switch is recognized for its unmatched smoothness and pristine typing experience, setting it apart as a top choice for those who prioritize a superior tactile feel. Meanwhile, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch offers a light actuation force, contributing to a swift and responsive keystroke experience that is ideal for both gamers and typists seeking quick input feedback. Both switches offer different feels that cater to varied preferences, with the Cheese focusing on smoothness and the Yellow Silver emphasizing speed and responsiveness.
In conclusion, the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch each bring unique qualities to the table. While the Cheese excels in providing a distinct sound profile and unparalleled smoothness, the Yellow Silver stands out for its light actuation force and neutral sound profile, appealing to users looking for speed and versatility in their typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience, offering users a tailored option based on their specific needs. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance in their respective areas, ensuring a positive and enjoyable typing experience for users.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, it all comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prioritize a light and smooth typing experience with a unique clacky sound profile, then the HMX Cheese switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light actuation force with a neutral sound profile that caters to both gaming and typing needs, then the Outemu Yellow Silver switch would be a better fit. Consider your typing habits and preferences to determine which switch aligns best with your needs. Happy typing!
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