KTT Darling vs. HMX Swift

Overview

When comparing the KTT Darling and the HMX Swift mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique typing experiences. The KTT Darling is known for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, accompanied by a pronounced bounciness and high-pitched sound upon bottoming out. On the other hand, the HMX Swift stands out for its deeper sound profile and silky smoothness, paired with a delicate 42g actuation force. While the Darling provides a blend of tactile and auditory feedback with its clacky and resonant qualities, the Swift offers a feathery 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

KTT Darling Linear

HMX Swift Linear

$4.50

$3.90 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Darling and the HMX Swift differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Darling features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to the polycarbonate's stiffness, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Swift utilizes a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound as compared to polycarbonate.

In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Darling and the Swift utilize nylon, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound in typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile for both switches. While the two switches have different top housing materials, their shared use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a similar sound profile in terms of depth and fullness. This commonality in bottom housing material may offer a somewhat consistent typing experience despite the differences in the top housing material.

Overall, the choice of housing materials in the KTT Darling and the HMX Swift plays a significant role in shaping the sound profiles of these switches. The polycarbonate top housing of the Darling delivers a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon top housing of the Swift provides a deeper and fuller sound. Despite these differences, both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a consistent depth and fullness in sound during typing. Whether opting for the sharpness of polycarbonate or the depth of nylon, keyboard enthusiasts can tailor their typing experience based on their preferred sound profile with either the Darling or the Swift.

Weight

When comparing the KTT Darling linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, we see some differences. The Darling has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Swift's 42 grams, making it slightly heavier in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Darling also requires more force at 53 grams as opposed to the Swift's 50 grams. Therefore, overall, the Darling is heavier in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Swift, which is considered to be on the lighter side in both categories. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but for those who prefer a more substantial push feel, the Darling may be the better choice, while those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Swift for longer typing sessions.

Travel distance

The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9mm. Both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range, making them ideal for those looking for quicker response times. The Darling switch comes in as the shorter option, providing a slightly faster key press, which may be preferred by gamers. On the other hand, the Swift switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a bit more depth to the key press, which some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key feel and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the KTT Darling linear switch offers a unique experience with its high-pitched and resonant properties, giving a satisfying auditory feedback that is both sharp and engaging. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch provides a deeper sound profile due to its nylon housings, accompanied by a silky smoothness that enhances the overall typing experience. While both switches are described as clacky, they offer different sound characteristics that cater to individual preferences. Depending on the user's choice of keyboard and keycaps, they can achieve similar results with either switch in terms of sound.

When it comes to feel, the KTT Darling linear switch is renowned for its bouncy sensation, offering a spring-like feedback that adds a lively feel to each keystroke. In contrast, the HMX Swift linear switch is highlighted for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and providing a low-impact typing experience that reduces finger fatigue. With descriptions such as feathery and creamy for the Swift switch, users can expect a smooth and comfortable typing feel that differs from the bouncy sensation of the Darling switch. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences that cater to different typing preferences.

Overall, the KTT Darling linear switch boasts a chewy and substantial typing sensation paired with a bouncy and resonant sound profile, creating a satisfying and engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch stands out with its deep sound profile, silky smoothness, and easy-to-press nature, providing a comfortable and low-impact typing feel. While both switches offer their own set of subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel, users can achieve a similar level of satisfaction and performance with either switch based on their personal preferences and typing style.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the KTT Darling linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider the qualities that matter most to you. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a typing sensation that is chewy, substantial, and bouncy with a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, the KTT Darling switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and appreciate a smoother, easy-to-press feel with a deep sound profile, the HMX Swift switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the typing experience you desire, whether it be more tactile and bouncy with the Darling switch or effortless and smooth with the Swift switch. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and enjoy a satisfying typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Darling Linear

$4.50

$3.90 per 10

Learn more

HMX Swift Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more