Outemu Red vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the Outemu Red and the HMX Swift mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches but offer different features and characteristics. The Outemu Red is best known for its consistent linear feel, making it a popular choice for gamers who prefer a smooth and quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Swift is best known for its unique sound profile, thanks to its full nylon housings which give it a deeper and silkier feel. The Swift is also categorized as 'clacky', 'easy-to-press', 'feathery', 'bouncy', and 'creamy', offering a diverse typing experience. 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
46g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.10 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Red and the HMX Swift, it is evident that they both use nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile. However, the Red utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the Swift's nylon top housing, which produces a more rounded and dull sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for a more resonant sound, while the softer nylon in the Swift absorbs more sound, leading to a different auditory experience.
In terms of aesthetics, the Red's polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through due to its translucency, enhancing the visual appeal of the switch. On the other hand, the Swift's nylon top housing may not allow for as vibrant of a lighting effect, but it offers a classic and timeless look. Despite their differences in material, both switches offer unique benefits in terms of sound profile and appearance, catering to different preferences and tastes among keyboard enthusiasts.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch play a significant role in the overall typing experience. The qualities of the housing material will be felt differently depending on whether you are pressing down on a key or releasing it. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings showcases how the choice of material can impact various aspects of typing, from sound profile to tactile feedback.
Weight
The Outemu Red and HMX Swift linear switches have distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Red switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Swift's 42 grams, making the Red switch slightly heavier. In terms of bottom out force, the Red switch requires 62 grams, while the Swift only needs 50 grams, again making the Red switch the heavier option. The difference in forces between the two switches means that the Red switch will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, ideal for those who prefer a bit more resistance. In contrast, the Swift switch with its lighter actuation and bottom out forces enables users to type for longer periods with less fatigue, making it a suitable choice for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of the Red and Swift switches cater to different preferences, with the Red offering a heavier typing experience and the Swift providing a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Outemu Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Outemu Red has a slightly longer distance compared to the HMX Swift. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Red being on the higher end and the Swift being slightly shorter. Gamers may appreciate the shorter travel distance of the Swift for quicker response times, while others may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Red for a more satisfying key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and overall typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Outemu Red comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 Outemu Red linear switch is known for being relatively quiet, lacking any distinct characteristics that make it stand out. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch is recognized for its clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. This distinctive sound is attributed to the full nylon housings of the Swift switches, resulting in a deeper and more pronounced auditory experience compared to the quieter Red switch. It is important to note that while the switch itself plays a significant role in sound, other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps can also influence the overall sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Red switch does not have any specific descriptors available, leaving its tactile experience relatively unknown. In contrast, the HMX Swift switch offers a range of sensory descriptors including easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy. This indicates that the Swift switch provides a light actuation force, gentle resistance during key presses, and a smooth typing experience. The feathery sensation suggests minimal exertion is required to press the keys, reducing finger fatigue and allowing for comfortable extended typing sessions. The bouncy feedback and creamy typing experience further enhance the overall tactile feel of the Swift switch, providing a responsive and enjoyable typing experience.
In conclusion, the subjective qualities of the Outemu Red linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch differ significantly in terms of sound and feel. While the Red switch offers a quieter typing experience with unknown tactile characteristics, the Swift switch stands out with its clacky sound profile and a range of tactile descriptors such as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy. Depending on personal preference and typing style, individuals may prefer the subdued sound of the Red switch or the more pronounced auditory and tactile experience offered by the Swift switch. Ultimately, selecting the right switch comes down to individual preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Red linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider your preference for bottom-out force. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force of 62 grams, the Outemu Red might be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams along with a silky smoothness and deep sound profile, the HMX Swift could be more suitable. Additionally, if you enjoy a clacky sound and an easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, or creamy feel, the HMX Swift offers these unique qualities that may enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for force, sound, and feel when it comes to mechanical keyboard switches.
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