Kailh Box Royal vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Box Royal and the HMX Swift mechanical keyboard switches, we see distinct differences in their design and performance. The Box Royal is a tactile switch known for its sharp, binary tactility, making it ideal for those seeking an aggressive tactile experience. In contrast, the HMX Swift is a linear switch with a deeper sound profile and silky smoothness, thanks to its full nylon housings and delicate 42g actuation force. While the Box Royal offers a high-pitched sound and intense tactility, the HMX Swift provides a clacky, easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy 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
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
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
Both the Kailh Box Royal and the HMX Swift utilize nylon as their housing material, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption compared to harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. This means that users of both switches can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
However, while both switches have nylon top and bottom housings, the way in which the qualities of the housing material are distributed throughout the switch differs. The bottom housing of a switch has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This means that even though the housing material is the same for both switches, the typing experience may vary slightly depending on which part of the switch is being interacted with.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Royal and the HMX Swift share the use of nylon as their housing material, resulting in a similar overall sound profile when typing. Both switches offer a deep and full sound experience due to the sound absorption properties of nylon. However, the distribution of the housing material's qualities within the switches means that there may be slight differences in the typing experience between the two switches, particularly in terms of bottom-out sound and key release sound.
Weight
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch have distinct differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Box Royal has a higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Swift's 42 grams, making it slightly heavier to push down. Additionally, the Box Royal requires a bottom out force of 70 grams, while the Swift only needs 50 grams to bottom out, indicating that the Box Royal is heavier overall. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Swift switch, as it allows for easier typing over extended periods of time. In contrast, the Box Royal provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is clear that the Box Royal has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Swift's 3.9 mm. The difference may seem small, but for some users, it can make a significant impact on the typing experience. The Box Royal's shorter travel distance may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers, while the Swift's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a deeper feel. Both switches still fall within the range of traditional travel distances, offering a balance between speed and tactility. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Box Royal comes in at $6.25 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 Kailh Box Royal tactile switch offers a higher-pitched profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch has a deeper sound profile due to its full nylon housings, creating a clacky and snappy sound. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences that can be further influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Box Royal switch is known for its sharp and intense tactile feedback, with a strong and crisp bump that is distinctly felt with each keypress. In contrast, the HMX Swift switch is easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance and a feathery lightness that makes typing effortless and comfortable. Additionally, the Swift switch provides a bouncy sensation and a creamy typing experience, enhancing the overall typing feel for users. These distinct tactile qualities cater to different preferences in typing experiences.
Overall, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and HMX Swift linear switch offer contrasting subjective qualities in both sound and feel. The Box Royal provides an aggressive tactility and high-pitched sound profile, while the Swift offers a smoother, lighter actuation force and a deeper, clacky sound. Depending on personal preference and typing style, users can choose between a sharp, intense tactile experience with the Box Royal or a gentle, feathery typing experience with the Swift. Both switches offer unique characteristics that enhance the typing experience, catering to a variety of preferences in mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a keyboard switch with aggressive tactility and a higher pitched sound profile, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, lighter typing experience with a deeper sound profile and minimal finger fatigue, the HMX Swift linear switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preferences for tactility, sound, and typing feel. Consider these factors carefully before making your choice to ensure that you select the switch that best fits your typing style and preferences.
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