Outemu Crystal vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Outemu Crystal and the HMX Swift, both of which are linear switches. The Outemu Crystal switch offers a unique linear typing experience with a fairly elastic feel and medium-light weight, resulting in a neutral sound profile while typing. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switch stands out with its deeper sound profile and silky smoothness, thanks to its full nylon housings and delicate 42g actuation force. The Crystal switch is best known for its chirpy, high-pitched, and polished feel, while the Swift switch 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
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the HMX Swift, it is clear that they both prioritize sound profile, but achieve it in different ways. The Crystal's polycarbonate housing lends itself to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its relatively stiff composition. This results in a clearer and more resonant sound, particularly when accompanied by RGB lighting. In contrast, the Swift's nylon housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the softer plastic absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder tone. While both materials aim to enhance the overall typing experience, they cater to different preferences in sound quality.
While the top housings of the Crystal and the Swift differ in material, they both play a significant role in the sound produced by the switches. The polycarbonate top housing of the Crystal creates a sharp and crisp sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the Swift elicits a deeper and fuller sound. This difference in material directly influences the overall sound experience when pressing down on the keys. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Crystal allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, adding an aesthetic element to the typing experience that the Swift may lack.
Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in switches like the Outemu Crystal and the HMX Swift determines the overall sound and feel of the typing experience. The stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the Crystal contributes to a clear and resonant sound when keys are pressed, while the softer nylon bottom housing of the Swift absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper tone. Understanding how each housing material interacts with the key press can help users choose the switch that aligns best with their sound preferences and typing style. Whether it be the sharper, higher-pitched sound of polycarbonate or the deeper, fuller sound of nylon, both the Crystal and the Swift offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences.
Weight
The Outemu Crystal linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the HMX Swift linear switch which has an actuation force of 42 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Crystal has a slightly higher bottom out force of 55 grams compared to the Swift's 50 grams. Both switches fall within the medium-light category, with the Crystal being slightly heavier in both actuation and bottom out force. The Crystal may provide a slightly more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance, while the Swift offers a lighter touch which may be preferred by those who type for longer periods or engage in extended gaming sessions. Ultimately, the difference in force between the two switches is relatively minimal, so users can expect similar results in terms of feel when using either switch.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.9 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Crystal being slightly longer. Gamers who prefer faster response times may lean towards the Swift switch with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may find the Crystal switch to be more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for travel distance and key press feel.
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 Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40 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 Outemu Crystal linear switch is known for its chirpy and high-pitched characteristics, giving it a unique acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. This sound profile is more neutral, providing a crisp and sharp sound when typing. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Its full nylon housings contribute to a deeper sound profile, creating a smooth and silky typing experience. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by external factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Crystal switch is highlighted by its polished finish, resulting in a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This switch provides a medium-light weight feel that offers a unique linear typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Swift switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. With a delicate 42g actuation force, the Swift switch delivers a feathery and bouncy sensation, enhancing the typing experience with a responsive and low-impact feel that is comfortable for gaming, school, or work.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Crystal switch provides a neutral sound profile with chirpy and high-pitched characteristics, along with a polished feel that offers smooth and refined key travel. On the other hand, the Swift switch stands out for its clacky sound profile and easy-to-press nature, providing a deep sound with a silky smoothness and a feathery, bouncy feel. Depending on personal preference and typing style, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch, as they both offer unique qualities that cater to different tastes and preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, your decision should be based on your preferred typing experience. If you enjoy a medium-light typing feel with a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Crystal switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light actuation force with a smoother and deeper sound profile, then the HMX Swift switch would be more suitable. Consider your typing style, sound preference, and desired typing feel when selecting between these two switches to ensure a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
