Durock Black Lotus vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Black Lotus and the HMX Swift mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer a smooth typing experience with unique features. The Black Lotus is praised for its silky smooth feel and precision, with reduced wobble for maximum typing pleasure, while the Swift stands out with a deeper sound profile and delicate 42g actuation force. The Black Lotus offers a 55g actuation weight, providing a substantial feel, while the Swift is noted for its easy-to-press nature and creamy feel. Both switches have their own characteristics that cater to different preferences, offering a choice between a polished and buttery typing experience with the Black Lotus, and a bouncy and feathery feel with the Swift. 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
55g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and HMX Swift switches both make use of nylon, a classic switch housing material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. Despite both switches utilizing nylon for their top housing, the Black Lotus's modified PC & UPE Blend top housing provides a unique and premium feel not found in the Swift switch. This difference in material can alter the overall typing experience, with the Black Lotus potentially offering a more luxurious touch.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Black Lotus and Swift switches feature nylon material. This means that the qualities of a softer plastic that absorbs sound and creates a deeper sound profile will be present in both switches. However, the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch may vary slightly between the two models. Despite this similarity in bottom housing material, the overall typing experience could still differ based on how each switch utilizes the nylon material in their construction.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and HMX Swift switches share similarities in the use of nylon for both top and bottom housings, the inclusion of a modified PC & UPE Blend in the Black Lotus provides a unique feel that may set it apart from the Swift. The softness of nylon in the top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the same material in the bottom housing absorbs sound and contributes to a rounder sound. Both switches offer a premium typing experience, with the differences in housing materials potentially influencing the overall feel and sound of the switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it becomes evident that the Black Lotus is heavier in both aspects. The Black Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the HMX Swift has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, creating a lighter typing experience. The difference in weight between the two switches caters to different preferences among users. Those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may prefer the Black Lotus, while individuals looking for a lighter typing experience may opt for the HMX Swift. Both switches offer distinct advantages depending on the user's typing preferences, ensuring that regardless of choice, users will achieve the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, the Black Lotus has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Swift has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.9 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Black Lotus being on the longer side and the Swift on the shorter side. The difference between the two distances may not be very noticeable in practical use, as they are quite similar. Gamers may prefer the Swift switch for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times, while those who prefer a deeper key press may lean towards the Black Lotus. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific feel desired by the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Black Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Black Lotus for $4.57.
The HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $3.45.
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 Durock Black Lotus linear switch provides a quiet and smooth typing experience, with minimal sound feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch is known for its deeper and slightly clacky sound profile, which may be more audible during typing. The sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard build and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Durock Black Lotus switch offers a silky and buttery typing experience, with a refined and polished feel. It provides a smooth key travel and minimizes resistance for a comfortable typing session. In comparison, the HMX Swift switch is characterized by its lightweight and easy-to-press nature, offering a feathery and bouncy feel. The switches have a spring-like feedback and require minimal force for activation, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.
Considering all the available information, it is evident that the Durock Black Lotus and HMX Swift linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Black Lotus excels in providing a quiet and smooth typing experience, the Swift stands out with its deeper sound profile and lightweight feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, both switches offer a premium typing experience with unique qualities that cater to different user preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Durock Black Lotus linear switch or the HMX Swift linear switch, the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a more substantial actuation weight with a silky smooth feel, the Black Lotus would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a delicate actuation force with a deep sound profile and silky smoothness, the HMX Swift would be the better option. Consider your typing style, preferences, and needs when selecting between these two switches for the optimal typing experience. Choose wisely and enjoy your mechanical keyboard journey!
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