Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the HMX Swift both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The MX Speed Silver is ideal for gamers seeking maximum speed and instant triggers with its linear action and low spring resistance. On the other hand, the HMX Swift stands out for its deeper sound profile and silky smoothness, making it a favorite among users who appreciate a softer touch and a lighter actuation force. While the Speed Silver is known for its textured and thocky feel, the Swift is characterized by its clacky, bouncy, and creamy attributes. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.20 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
pom
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Speed Silver and the HMX Swift both feature nylon top and bottom housing materials, which results in a similar typing experience for both switches. The use of nylon in the housing construction of both switches creates a deep and fuller sound profile when typing. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound during key presses.
While both the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the HMX Swift share the same nylon housing material for both the top and bottom, the impact of each housing material differs in terms of sound and feel. The bottom housing of a switch has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, affecting the typing experience when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound that is produced when releasing a key, influencing the overall sound profile of the switch during typing.
Overall, the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the HMX Swift offer a similar typing experience due to their shared use of nylon housing materials. The softness of the nylon plastic allows for sound absorption, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on both switches. Whether it's the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound or the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key, the nylon material in both switches contributes to a satisfying typing experience with a round and dull sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is clear that the MX Speed Silver is lighter in terms of actuation force at 30 grams, while the Swift is heavier at 42 grams. The MX Speed Silver has an unknown bottom out force, while the Swift has a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating a lighter typing experience for the MX Speed Silver compared to the Swift. Those who prefer a lighter touch may enjoy the MX Speed Silver for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Swift with its heavier actuation force. Both switches provide distinct options for users depending on their preferences for typing feel and weight considerations.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, we see that the MX Speed Silver has a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm compared to the Swift's 3.9mm. The MX Speed Silver's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the Swift's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on personal preference, with the MX Speed Silver delivering a quicker keystroke and the Swift offering a more substantial key press experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference and the specific typing or gaming needs of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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 MX Speed Silver switch is often described as thocky and low-pitched, offering a deep and satisfying tone with a bass-heavy and mellow quality. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switch is known for producing a clacky sound, characterized by sharp and snappy tones that are crisp and bright in nature. Depending on personal preference, the MX Speed Silver may be favored for its rich and deep sound, while the Swift switch appeals to those who enjoy a sharper and more percussive sound profile.
In terms of feel, the MX Speed Silver switch is noted for its textured nature, providing users with a noticeable friction when pressed that can add a tactile element to typing or gaming experiences. Conversely, the HMX Swift switch is described as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy, offering a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue and provides a smooth and buttery typing experience. While the MX Speed Silver may cater to individuals who prefer a bit of resistance in their key presses, the HMX Swift is ideal for those seeking a soft and effortless typing sensation.
Overall, when comparing the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch with the HMX Swift linear switch, it's clear that they offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the MX Speed Silver excels in providing a thocky and low-pitched sound with a textured feel, the HMX Swift stands out with its clacky sound and easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound profiles and typing experiences, both switches can offer a satisfying and responsive keyboarding experience, albeit with different characteristics. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a keyboard switch that prioritizes speed and immediate response, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch would be the ideal choice. Its low spring resistance and linear action make it perfect for gaming, where quick reflexes are crucial. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a smoother, deeper sound profile, the HMX Swift linear switch would be more suitable. The Swift's gentle resistance and feathery feel offer a comfortable typing experience, particularly for extended use. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and needs in terms of speed, sound, and typing feel.
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