TTC Bluish White vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Bluish White, a tactile switch, with the HMX Swift, a linear switch, it's important to note some key differences. The Bluish White is favored by those seeking a poppy and satisfying typing experience, with a snappy sound profile categorized as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Stepped', 'Subtle', 'Polished', and 'Low-pitched'. On the other hand, the HMX Swift stands out for its deeper sound profile and silky smoothness, thanks to its full nylon housings and delicate 42g actuation force, categorized as 'Clacky', 'Easy-to-press', 'Feathery', 'Bouncy', and 'Creamy'. Each switch offers unique benefits depending on personal preference, 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
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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 TTC Bluish White and the HMX Swift, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's ability to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. The difference lies in the top housing material, with the Bluish White featuring a polycarbonate top housing while the Swift uses nylon. The polycarbonate top housing of the Bluish White creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the Swift produces a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the Bluish White's polycarbonate top housing offers translucency that is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Swift may not offer the same level of visual appeal, but it contributes to a sound profile that is deeper and fuller. While both switches share a similar bottom housing material, the difference in their top housings results in distinct sound characteristics that may cater to different preferences. Overall, the choice between the two switches may come down to whether the user prioritizes a sharper sound profile with visual flair (Bluish White) or a deeper, fuller sound (HMX Swift).
In conclusion, the choice between the TTC Bluish White and the HMX Swift ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound compared to harder plastics. However, the difference in top housing materials leads to distinct sound characteristics, with the polycarbonate top housing of the Bluish White creating a sharper sound profile and the nylon top housing of the Swift producing a rounder sound. Whether the user values a more visually appealing switch with RGB lighting potential (Bluish White) or prioritizes a deeper sound profile (HMX Swift), both switches offer unique qualities that can cater to different preferences in the realm of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 42 grams and bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke and the force needed to press the key all the way down. In terms of weight, both switches can be considered light, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. However, for those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, they may opt for switches with heavier forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The TTC Bluish White tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. In this case, the Swift switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Bluish White switch. The difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall feel and response of the switch. Gamers who prefer a faster response time may lean towards the Bluish White switch with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more deliberate keypress may opt for the Swift switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Both switches offer their own benefits, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style when choosing between the two.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch offers a low-pitched and satisfying poppy typing experience, whereas the HMX Swift linear switch provides a deeper, clacky sound profile that is crisp, bright, and percussive. Depending on your preference, the Bluish White switch may provide a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the Swift switch will deliver a sharper and snappier sound. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as your keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch offers a buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished typing experience. These switches provide a smooth and fluid keystroke with gentle resistance, making them suitable for users looking for a comfortable and uniform typing sensation. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch provides an easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy feel. These switches are designed to offer minimal resistance and reduce finger fatigue, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels effortless and comfortable.
Overall, both the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a low-pitched and poppy typing experience, the Bluish White switch may be the better choice for you. However, if you enjoy a deeper, clacky sound profile with an easy-to-press and buttery feel, the Swift switch might be more suitable. Consider your typing preferences and requirements to choose the switch that best fits your needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a low-pitched and buttery typing experience with a snappy sound profile, the Bluish White might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clacky and easy-to-press switch with a deep sound profile and silky smoothness, the HMX Swift could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and which characteristics you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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