HMX Swift vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the HMX Swift and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between a linear switch like the HMX Swift and a tactile switch like the Gazzew U4Tx can greatly impact your typing experience. The Swift is renowned for its deep sound profile and silky smooth feel, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a softer typing experience. On the other hand, the U4Tx offers a unique combination of a satisfying tactile bump and a refined sound profile, providing a luxurious typing experience for those who prefer a more muted and sharp keystroke. 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
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Swift and the Gazzew U4Tx both focus on delivering a rich and deep sound profile, but they achieve this in slightly different ways. The Swift utilizes a classic nylon material for both its top and bottom housing, which results in a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the U4Tx features a proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housing, known as "boba plastic," which also offers a softness that enhances the sound profile by delivering a rich and deep tone. While both housing materials aim to provide a similar sound experience, they each have their unique characteristics that contribute to the overall typing experience.
However, the Swift's nylon top and bottom housing may offer a more consistent sound profile due to using the same material for both components. This may lead to a more uniform typing experience as the sound produced during bottoming out and releasing a key is influenced by the nylon material in both the top and bottom housing. On the other hand, the U4Tx's use of a proprietary Gazzew blend for the top and bottom housing may introduce slight variations in sound profile between the two components. This could potentially result in a more dynamic typing experience, as the slightly different characteristics of each housing material may offer a more nuanced sound profile depending on how the keys are pressed.
In conclusion, while both the HMX Swift and the Gazzew U4Tx aim to deliver rich and deep sound profiles, they achieve this goal through slightly different means. The Swift's nylon housing provides a consistent and uniform sound experience throughout typing, while the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend may introduce slight variations in sound profile between the top and bottom housing components. Ultimately, the choice between these two housing materials may come down to personal preference and the specific sound profile that each individual typist is looking for in their mechanical keyboard.
Weight
The HMX Swift linear switch is lighter in terms of actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch. The Swift has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the U4Tx has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams. Those who prefer a lighter touch may appreciate the Swift for its ease of typing and gaming for longer periods without fatigue. On the other hand, the U4Tx provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, which some may find more satisfying. Both switches offer different options for users based on their preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Swift has a longer travel distance compared to the U4Tx. Both switches fall within the category of shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may lean towards the U4Tx for its faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Swift with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Gazzew U4Tx comes in at $6.50 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Swift linear switch offers a deep and silky smooth sound profile that is unique compared to the typical brighter signature of HMX switches. The Swifts provide a satisfying clackiness that pairs well with its 42g actuation force, giving a crisp and percussive sound during key presses. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch boasts a refined and luxurious sound profile. With a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a quiet stealthiness when topping out, each press on the U4Tx switches produces a sharp and satisfying tactile bump, offering an acoustically pleasing typing experience. While the Swift leans towards a clacky sound, the U4Tx showcases a bassy and muted sound, providing a different auditory experience for the user.
Moving on to the feel, the HMX Swift linear switch promises an easy-to-press and feathery typing experience with its light actuation force and gentle resistance. Typing on the Swifts feels effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offers a sharp tactile feedback with a strong and crisp bump intensity. These switches provide a lively and bouncy sensation, giving a distinct tactile experience with each keypress. The U4Tx switches stand out for their responsive and high feedback intensity, ensuring a tactile typing experience that is both satisfying and comfortable for the user.
Overall, both the HMX Swift linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Swift provides a clacky sound profile with easy-to-press and feathery typing feel, the U4Tx showcases a bassy and muted sound with a sharp tactile feedback. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the deep and silky smooth sound of the Swift or the refined and luxurious sound of the U4Tx. Additionally, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their respective qualities, ensuring a pleasant and enjoyable typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the HMX Swift linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, consider the factors of sound and feel based on your preferences. If you prefer a deeper, smoother sound profile with light actuation force and a feathery, easy-to-press feel, the Swift switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a refined, clean sound with a sharp tactile bump and a bassy, muted sound profile, the U4Tx switch could offer you a luxurious typing experience. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences to ensure an enjoyable and satisfying keyboard experience.
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