HMX Cheese Linear Switches

This linear switch offers a light actuation force with a smooth keystroke, suited for users who prefer effortless key presses without tactile bumps. It fits well for typists or gamers seeking consistent, quiet key travel with moderate total travel distance. The switch’s factory lubrication aims to reduce friction, enhancing smoothness from the start.

Feel & Sound

• Linear feel provides a consistent, smooth keypress without tactile feedback.
• Light actuation force supports quick, low-effort typing or gaming inputs.
• Sound profile is generally quiet with a soft bottom-out, suitable for shared workspaces.

Actuation Characteristics

• Actuates at a shallow 2.0 mm, allowing faster key registration compared to longer pretravel switches.
• Total travel of 3.5 mm balances responsiveness with enough distance to avoid accidental presses.
• Bottom-out force slightly higher than actuation force, providing subtle resistance at the key’s end.

Build Quality

• Housing made from nylon, which can affect sound and durability compared to other plastics.
• Stem constructed from LY material, designed for smooth sliding within the housing.
• Factory lubed to reduce initial scratchiness, improving smoothness without user modification.

Compatibility

• PCB mount design requires compatible PCBs, not plate-mounted setups.
• Five-pin configuration supports stable mounting and reduces wobble.

Trade-offs

• Linear design lacks tactile feedback, which may be less suitable for users who prefer keypress confirmation.
• Unknown long-term durability and sound profile changes after extended use.
• Factory lube quality may vary, and additional lubing could further improve smoothness.