Gateron Aliaz vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX Swift mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct differences that cater to varying preferences. The Aliaz switch is ideal for quiet environments such as the office, offering a medium-heavy weight that provides a substantial typing feel without the noise. On the other hand, the Swift switch stands out with its deeper sound profile and silky smoothness, making it a great choice for those who appreciate a lighter actuation force. While the Aliaz is described as 'Silky', 'Muted', and 'Polished', the Swift is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Easy-to-press', 'Feathery', 'Bouncy', and 'Creamy'. 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
60g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
75g
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
No
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
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX Swift, it is evident that the Aliaz features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, while the Swift utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing. The polycarbonate material in the Aliaz creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile compared to the deeper and fuller sound profile of nylon in the Swift. Polycarbonate's stiffness leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, while nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone.
When it comes to aesthetics, the polycarbonate material used in both the top and bottom housing of the Aliaz allows for a translucent appearance, enhancing the visual appeal when RGB lighting is incorporated. On the other hand, the nylon material in the Swift's top and bottom housing may not offer the same translucency but provides a classic look with a focus on creating a deep and full sound profile. The different housing materials in each switch offer distinct sound characteristics, catering to different preferences for typing experience.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX Swift offer unique sound profiles and aesthetic qualities, both switches provide a quality typing experience. Whether it be the sharper sound of polycarbonate in the Aliaz or the deeper, fuller sound of nylon in the Swift, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch. The impact of the housing material on the sound and feel of the switch, whether in the top or bottom housing, contributes to the overall tactile feedback and auditory experience when typing on these mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, the Aliaz is notably heavier with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams. In contrast, the Swift is lighter with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. The Aliaz provides a more substantial typing experience due to its higher force requirements, while the Swift offers a lighter touch that may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches have a significant difference in weight, making the Aliaz the heavier option and the Swift the lighter option. This distinction in weight can cater to different preferences in typing feel and comfort, with the Aliaz suited for those who prefer a stronger push and the Swift appealing to those who prefer a lighter touch. Overall, the weight variance between the two switches allows users to choose based on their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. The Aliaz has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Swift. A longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying keypress for those who prefer deeper key travel, while a shorter travel distance such as the Swift's may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for keypress feel and responsiveness. In this case, the difference in travel distance is minimal, so the results between the two switches would be quite similar overall.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
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 Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is known for its muted sound profile, providing a softer and quieter typing experience ideal for office environments. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch offers a unique clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The Swift's deeper sound profile sets it apart from typical linear switches, creating a more pronounced auditory experience. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as keycaps and keyboard construction.
When it comes to feel, the Aliaz tactile switch is favored for its silky and polished typing experience, offering smooth key presses and reduced friction for an overall refined feel. In contrast, the HMX Swift linear switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and providing a feathery sensation when typing. Additionally, the Swift switch offers a bouncy and creamy feel, giving users a lively and buttery typing experience that enhances overall comfort during extended use.
In conclusion, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch excels in providing a quiet and substantial typing feedback with its medium-heavy weight, making it a great choice for those seeking a more tactile typing experience. Conversely, the HMX Swift linear switch stands out for its unique deep sound profile and light actuation force, offering a smooth and responsive typing feel that minimizes finger fatigue. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, providing users with distinct typing experiences to suit their individual needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you value a heavier keystroke with a pronounced tactile feedback and a quieter typing experience, the Aliaz switch would be an ideal choice, especially for office settings. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force with a silky smooth typing feel and a deeper sound profile, the Swift switch would be more suitable, especially for gaming or extended typing sessions. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the specific context in which you'll be using the keyboard.
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