Zuoce Lavender vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Lavender and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Zuoce Lavender and HMX Swift are both linear mechanical keyboard switches, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Lavender switch is praised for its exceptional smoothness and crisp, clacky sound signature, providing a satisfying typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, the Swift switch stands out for its deeper sound profile and silky smoothness, thanks to its full nylon housings and delicate 42g actuation force. While the Lavender is categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky', the Swift offers a wider range of characteristics including 'Feathery', 'Bouncy', and 'Creamy'. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences 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
48g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The Zuoce Lavender and the HMX Swift both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Lavender features a POM top and bottom housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound. On the other hand, the Swift utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. While both materials offer a similar depth in sound, the POM housing of the Lavender may have a slightly more muted tone compared to the rounder sound produced by the nylon housing of the Swift.
In terms of material properties, POM and nylon offer different characteristics that impact the overall typing experience. POM is known for being a harder plastic, which may result in a more solid and stable feel when pressing down on the keys of the Lavender. On the other hand, nylon is softer and more absorbent, leading to a smoother and potentially quieter typing experience with the Swift. These differences in material properties can affect the overall sound and feel of the switches, catering to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Although the top and bottom housings of the Lavender and the Swift are made of different materials, they both contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the keys, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Lavender and the Swift offer unique typing experiences that cater to individuals looking for switches with distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and HMX Swift linear switch differ in terms of weight. The Lavender switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, providing a medium-light feel. On the other hand, the Swift switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a light switch in comparison. The difference in forces impacts the typing experience, with the Lavender switch requiring slightly more pressure for actuation and bottom out compared to the Swift switch. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Swift switch for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may opt for the more substantial typing experience provided by the Lavender switch.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the HMX Swift linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. The Lavender will provide a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers who value speed and agility. On the other hand, the Swift offers a slightly deeper press, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific feel you are looking for in your keyboard. Both switches offer different experiences, so it is important to consider what you prioritize in a typing or gaming experience before making a decision.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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, both the Zuoce Lavender and HMX Swift switches are described as "clacky," offering a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The Lavender's sound signature is crisp and bright, providing a distinctly satisfying experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Swift stands out with a deeper sound profile due to its full nylon housings, adding a touch of elegance to its overall sound. While the sound of a switch can be influenced by other factors like the keyboard and keycaps used, both switches offer a pleasing auditory experience that will likely appeal to enthusiasts of clacky switches.
In terms of feel, both the Lavender and Swift switches are described as "easy-to-press," offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This feature enhances the typing experience by providing a responsive and low-impact feel, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Swift switch is also described as "feathery," indicating an exceptionally light press that is comfortable for prolonged typing sessions. Both switches offer a smooth and effortless typing experience that is sure to be appreciated by users looking for a comfortable and responsive typing feel.
Overall, the Zuoce Lavender and HMX Swift switches share similar subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches provide a satisfying clacky sound signature and an easy-to-press, comfortable typing experience. Whether you choose the Lavender for its exceptional smoothness out of the box or the Swift for its silky smooth feel and delicate actuation force, you can expect to get similar results in terms of sound and feel from both switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, smoothness, sound signature, and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 53 grams and value exceptional smoothness with a crisp and clacky sound signature, then the Lavender switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and enjoy a deeper sound profile with silky smoothness, then the Swift switch could be the more suitable choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
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