HMX Cheese vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cheese and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° both offer unique advantages that cater to different preferences. The HMX Cheese is praised for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, featuring a satisfying clacky sound signature and ultra-lightweight feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° stands out for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, providing a silent yet smooth typing experience with a soft, elastic feel. While both switches offer exceptional qualities, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
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
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, it is clear that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deep and full sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs sound effectively. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches made with nylon bottom housing. Therefore, both the Cheese and the Zero Degree 0° will likely produce a similar typing experience in terms of sound when it comes to their bottom housing material.
However, the top housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° differ significantly. The Cheese features a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials have their own unique qualities, it is clear that the choice of top housing material will greatly impact the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, the decision between the Cheese and the Zero Degree 0° will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. If you prefer a deeper and fuller sound, the Cheese with its nylon top and bottom housing may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a sharper and crisper sound, the Zero Degree 0° with its polycarbonate top housing may be more to your liking. Both switches offer a high-quality typing experience, but the choice of housing material will ultimately determine the sound profile and overall feel of the switch.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, we can see that the Cheese is lighter in both aspects. The Cheese has an actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Zero Degree's 45 grams. Additionally, the Cheese has a bottom out force of 46 grams while the Zero Degree's bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Cheese more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who prefer a stronger push feel may lean towards the Zero Degree for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation force, but the bottom out force may vary depending on personal preference.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Cheese linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both of these switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances which are becoming increasingly popular, particularly among gamers looking for faster response times. The Cheese switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it potentially more responsive, whereas the Zero Degree 0° switch has a slightly longer travel distance which may provide a more substantial feel when pressed. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for the amount of depth and responsiveness desired in a switch.
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 Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 offers a unique clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature that is highly satisfying to many users. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch focuses on revolutionizing silent typing with its innovative design that absorbs sound and reduces noise. The sound produced by each switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the HMX Cheese linear switch is praised for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, providing a satisfying tactile feedback. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch boasts a soft, elastic feel due to its self-padding design and dual-rail structure, offering stability and smoothness. The feel of a switch is a crucial aspect of typing experience, impacting comfort and overall performance.
Considering all available information, both the HMX Cheese and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Cheese switch excels in providing a crispy sound and smooth typing experience, the Zero Degree 0° switch focuses on silent typing and stability. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on the individual's preference for sound, feel, and the overall typing experience they desire. With both switches offering top-notch performance in their respective areas, users can expect similar levels of satisfaction in their typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, you'll want to consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a light actuation force and a clacky, poppy sound, the HMX Cheese switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a self-padding design for a silent typing experience and a soft, elastic feel, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch would be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound, and overall typing experience.
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