Gateron Ink Yellow vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Yellow and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Ink Yellow and the HMX Swift mechanical keyboard switches, there are key differences to consider. The Ink Yellow is a linear switch that offers a shorter travel distance, providing a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. It is known for its smoothness and clackiness, making it a popular choice for those looking for a refined typing feel. On the other hand, the HMX Swift is also a linear switch but stands out for its deeper sound profile thanks to its full nylon housings. With a silky smoothness and a delicate 42g actuation force, the Swift offers a unique typing experience that is both easy-to-press and bouncy. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics, making them suitable for different preferences. 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
60g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Yellow and the HMX Swift have different top housing materials, with the Ink Yellow utilizing a proprietary INK blend and the Swift using nylon. The INK blend in the Ink Yellow switch is known for its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Swift provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the INK blend in the Ink Yellow switch produces a sharper sound compared to the rounder sound of the nylon in the Swift.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Gateron Ink Yellow features a proprietary INK blend while the HMX Swift uses nylon. Similar to the top housing, the INK blend in the Ink Yellow switch results in a thin, higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing of the Swift creates a duller and rounder sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Both bottom housing materials contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch, with the INK blend offering a sharper sound compared to the softer, fuller sound of the nylon.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and the HMX Swift differ, the impact of these materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches is similar. The qualities of the bottom housing, whether it is the INK blend in the Ink Yellow or the nylon in the Swift, will affect the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed down. Conversely, the top housing material will have a greater impact on the sound when the key is released. Both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, providing enthusiasts with options to tailor their typing experience to their preferences.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is evident that the Swift is the lighter option with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, whereas the Ink Yellow is heavier with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams. The difference in weight between the two switches affects the typing experience significantly. The lighter Swift switch is ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the heavier Ink Yellow switch provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. Both switches fall within the range of modern shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for quicker response times. However, the Ink Yellow offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Swift. For those who prioritize fast and responsive typing or gaming, the Ink Yellow may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a bit more depth and cushion when pressing down on a key may find the Swift with its longer travel distance more to their liking. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Yellow has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Yellow for $7.35.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch offers a more neutral and clacky experience, suitable for a variety of users and environments. The HMX Swift, on the other hand, provides a distinctively deep and clacky sound due to its nylon housings. Both switches excel in providing a satisfying auditory feedback, with the Ink Yellow leaning towards a moderate sound profile and the Swift offering a brighter and more percussive tone. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference and the accompanying keyboard setup.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch is known for its mild and polished typing experience, providing a gentle and refined sensation during key presses. On the other hand, the HMX Swift offers an easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy feel, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions and offering a spring-like feedback. Both switches prioritize smoothness and effortless typing, with the Ink Yellow falling on the gentler side while the Swift focuses on light actuation force and responsiveness. Choosing between the two would depend on the desired typing experience and level of finger fatigue during prolonged use.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Ink Yellow and the HMX Swift switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles. While the Ink Yellow provides a neutral and clacky sound with a mild and polished feel, the Swift stands out with its deep and clacky sound profile and easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy feel. Depending on whether a user prefers a more moderate or brighter sound, a gentler or more responsive feel, the choice between the two switches can lead to a satisfying typing experience with similar results in terms of overall quality and performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch or the HMX Swift linear switch, you should first think about your typing preferences. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth, clacky typing experience similar to a standard mechanical keyboard but with a shorter travel, the Ink Yellow might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a silky smooth typing experience with a deeper sound profile, the HMX Swift could be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique typing experiences, so it's important to consider your personal typing style and preferences when making your decision.
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