SP-Star Duck vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Duck and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Duck and HMX Swift offer distinct typing experiences. The Duck switch is a tactile switch that provides a subtle yet satisfying feedback while typing, with a clean and crispy sound profile. On the other hand, the Swift switch is a linear switch known for its deep sound profile and silky smoothness, complemented by a delicate actuation force. While the Duck switch is perfect for those who prefer a mild and buttery typing experience, the Swift switch stands out for its clacky sound signature and easy-to-press keys. 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
N/A
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the SP-Star Duck and the HMX Swift, it is clear that they both offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Duck's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for users who prefer a more clear and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Swift's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound and creates a rounder tone. While both materials have their own distinctive sound qualities, they cater to different preferences in terms of typing sound and feel.
When examining the bottom housings of the SP-Star Duck and the HMX Swift, the differences in material once again play a significant role in the overall typing experience. The Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing, like its top housing, contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, emphasizing the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, the Swift's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a more rounded and duller tone when typing. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom aspects of the switch allows for a distinct sensation when pressing down on the switch and when releasing a key.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the SP-Star Duck and the HMX Swift, both switches offer a unique typing experience that caters to various preferences. While the Duck's polycarbonate housing provides a sharper and clearer sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a more defined typing feel, the Swift's nylon housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, appealing to users who enjoy a rounder tone. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences regarding sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Duck tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, the actuation force of the Duck is None grams, while the Swift has an actuation force of 42 grams. This indicates that the Swift requires a lighter touch to trigger a keystroke compared to the Duck. In terms of bottom out force, the Duck has a bottom out force of 58 grams, making it heavier than the Swift, which has a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that while typing on the Duck may require a bit more force to reach the bottom of the keystroke, the Swift offers a lighter touch overall. For users who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Swift may be the better choice, while those who prefer a more substantial feel may lean towards the Duck. In this case, weight does play a significant role in determining the typing experience, with some users preferring a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, while others may prefer a heavier force for a more tactile feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Duck tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, we can see that the Duck has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Swift has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. In this case, the Duck has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Swift. A 0.1 mm may not seem like much, but it can make a difference in how the switch feels and responds when pressed. Those who prefer a more traditional travel distance may lean towards the Duck, while those looking for a slightly shorter distance may prefer the Swift. Both switches offer a balance between depth and responsiveness, but the slight difference in travel distance could be a factor in choosing one over the other for some users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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 SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, which is moderate in actuation force and sound output, making it suitable for various purposes and users. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch provides a clacky sound profile, characterized by sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Both switches can deliver satisfying sound experiences, with the Duck being more subtle and the Swift having a deeper and brighter signature, ultimately depending on factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a mild and buttery typing experience, providing a gentle and uniform keystroke sensation that is approachable to most users. It also has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Swift linear switch is described as easy-to-press and feathery, offering a light actuation force that enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during extended use. The switch also provides a bouncy and creamy feel, giving a spring-like feedback and silky typing sensation.
In conclusion, while the sound and feel of the SP-Star Duck tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch differ in their characteristics, both switches offer unique and desirable qualities for mechanical keyboard users. Whether you prefer a subtle, buttery typing experience with a neutral sound profile or a clacky, easy-to-press switch with a bright sound signature, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on your personal preferences and typing style. Ultimately, experimenting with both switches on different keyboards and setups can help you determine which one suits your needs and preferences best.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the SP-Star Duck tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you value a subtle tactile feel with a clean and crispy sound profile, the Duck switch with its medium bottom out force may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a deeper sound profile with a silky smooth feel, the Swift switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preference for key feel and sound.
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