Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the HMX Swift both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro is praised for its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Swift stands out with its deeper sound profile due to full nylon housings, offering a delicate 42g actuation force. While the Crystal Pro switch is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Chirpy', and 'Polished', the Swift switch is described as 'Clacky', 'Easy-to-press', 'Feathery', 'Bouncy', and 'Creamy'. If you prefer a smoother typing experience with a bright sound, the V3 Crystal Pro might be the better choice. However, if you prefer a deeper sound profile with a lighter actuation force, the HMX Swift could be more suitable. 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
48g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the HMX Swift, it is clear that they differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The V3 Crystal Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound compared to the nylon top housing of the Swift. Polycarbonate's stiffness leads to a clear and resonant sound profile, while nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound. However, both materials are effective in enhancing the overall sound quality of the switches they are used in.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the V3 Crystal Pro once again features a polycarbonate material, while the Swift opts for a nylon bottom housing. Similar to the top housings, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the V3 Crystal Pro contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Swift produces a deeper and fuller sound. The difference in stiffness between the two materials results in distinct sound characteristics, with polycarbonate emphasizing clarity and resonance, and nylon offering a more muffled and round sound.
It is important to note that the housing material used in both the top and bottom housings of a switch plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the keystrokes. While the V3 Crystal Pro and the HMX Swift utilize different housing materials, each material brings its own unique qualities to the switches. Whether it is the sharp and clear sound of polycarbonate or the deep and full sound of nylon, both materials contribute to a distinct typing experience for users. Ultimately, the choice between these two housing materials will depend on personal preference and the desired sound profile for the user.
Weight
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch both offer smooth keystrokes, but they differ in terms of actuation and bottom out force. The V3 Crystal Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Swift has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference - whether one prefers a lighter touch for prolonged use or a heavier push for a more tactile typing feel. Ultimately, both switches offer a different typing experience that caters to different user preferences.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch have slightly different travel distances, with the V3 Crystal Pro having a distance of 3.8 mm and the Swift having a distance of 3.9 mm. While the 0.1 mm may seem insignificant, it can make a noticeable difference in the feel of the switch when typing or gaming. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for quick responsiveness. Gamers may appreciate the slightly shorter travel distance of the V3 Crystal Pro for faster response times, while those who prefer a bit more depth might lean towards the Swift with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience you are looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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 Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a unique chirpy sound that sets it apart from other switches. In contrast, the HMX Swift linear switch provides a clacky sound that is sharp and snappy. Both switches have their distinct sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, although the choice of board and keycaps can also influence the sound produced.
In terms of feel, the V3 Crystal Pro switch is described as bouncy and polished, offering a spring-like feedback and a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switch is known for being easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy, providing a light and comfortable typing feel with minimal finger fatigue. Both switches offer a silky smooth typing experience, albeit achieving it through slightly different mechanisms.
Overall, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch both offer high-quality typing experiences with their unique sound and feel characteristics. Depending on personal preference for sound profile and typing feel, either switch could provide a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, both switches share the feature of providing a silky smooth typing sensation, ensuring that users can expect similar results in terms of overall typing comfort and performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a bright and chirpy sound with a silky smooth typing feel, the V3 Crystal Pro with its 60g bottom out force and bouncy, polished keys may be the ideal choice for you. However, if you prefer a deeper sound profile with a light 42g actuation force and easy-to-press, feathery keys that reduce finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, the HMX Swift linear switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the sound and feel characteristics that align with your personal typing preferences to enhance your overall keyboard experience.
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