HMX Deep Navy vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX Deep Navy and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Deep Navy and Cherry MX Speed Silver stand out as compelling options for users seeking unique tactile experiences. The Deep Navy switch is celebrated for its rich sound profile and silky smooth keystrokes made possible by its full nylon construction and Ly stem, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience that many enthusiasts appreciate. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is engineered for those who demand rapid response times, featuring low spring resistance that facilitates instant triggering. This makes it an ideal choice for gamers where every millisecond can be pivotal in gameplay, with its textured, thocky, and low-pitched characteristics enhancing both performance and auditory feedback. While both switches boast linear action for a fluid typing experience, the choice ultimately hinges on whether one prioritizes sound and build quality or speed and responsiveness in fast-paced scenarios. 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Deep Navy and Cherry MX Speed Silver switches both utilize nylon for both the top and bottom housings, which leads to remarkably similar acoustic characteristics. As noted, nylon is a classic switch housing material that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This quality allows nylon to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a rounder and less sharp auditory experience when typing. Consequently, users of both switches can expect a satisfying auditory feedback when actuating the keys, as the nylon material dampens any harsh sounds that might arise during keyboard input.
In addition to the acoustic benefits, the similarities in using nylon for both the top and bottom housings mean that the overall feel of typing will adhere to the same pleasurable tactile qualities. The construction of both switches benefits from nylon's inherent properties, fostering a smooth typing experience. While the bottom housing contributes more significantly to the bottom-out feel, both housings, being of the same material, collectively help craft a cohesive feedback loop that amplifies tactile enjoyment. Whether you press down on the key or release it, the combination of top and bottom haptic feedback reinforces the consistent character of both the Deep Navy and MX Speed Silver switches.
In summary, since both the HMX Deep Navy and Cherry MX Speed Silver switches utilize nylon for their housings, users will enjoy analogous results regarding sound and feel. The shared material ensures that regardless of the specific design or branding differences between these models, users can anticipate a uniformly rich auditory experience and soft tactile feedback. By maintaining a consistent housing material, the switches not only achieve a similar acoustic profile but also unify the typing experience across different keyboard setups, providing a versatile option for enthusiasts and casual users alike.
Weight
The HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch exhibit noticeable differences in actuation force, while their bottom out forces vary as well. The Deep Navy switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, which can be advantageous for users who type or game for extended periods, offering less fatigue and a more effortless experience. In contrast, the MX Speed Silver requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, catering to those who prefer a firmer feel when typing. Regarding their bottom out forces, the Deep Navy has a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver's bottom out force is labeled as unknown. This uncertainty leaves ambiguity about how the overall feedback of bottoming out compares between the two switches. Ultimately, gamers or typists looking for a lighter touch would gravitate towards the Deep Navy, whereas those seeking a more substantial keypress would likely favor the Cherry MX Speed Silver.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, a noticeable difference emerges. The Deep Navy switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the MX Speed Silver features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Cherry MX Speed Silver is designed for quicker key presses, making it particularly appealing for gamers who prioritize rapid response times. On the other hand, the Deep Navy switch offers a bit more depth, which may be favored by users who enjoy a more substantial feel when actuating a key. Ultimately, if you prefer a more responsive experience, the MX Speed Silver would be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance, whereas the HMX Deep Navy would cater to those seeking a more traditional and deeper feel in their keystrokes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Deep Navy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Deep Navy for $2.79.
The Cherry MX Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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
The sound profile of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch is known for its rich, sharp tone, thanks to its full nylon construction which contributes to a unique auditory experience with every keystroke. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch has been characterized as thocky and low-pitched, producing a deep "thud" when pressed. This creates a satisfying acoustic signature that's bass-heavy and mellow, making it appealing for users who appreciate a more resonant sound. While the Deep Navy's precise sound description is not provided, its overall construction likely yields a distinct auditory characteristic that could align well with an audience looking for a delightful acoustic experience. However, since both switches may produce their own unique sounds, the final auditory effect can also depend heavily on the keyboard build and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the Deep Navy is noted for its silky smoothness with every keystroke due to the Ly stem, which suggests a friction-free typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is recognized for its textured feel, which introduces noticeable friction during key presses. This texture can provide tactile feedback that some users may prefer, while others may find it slightly less suitable compared to the smoothness of the Deep Navy. If you're drawn to a seamless typing sensation, the Deep Navy may be your go-to, while if you enjoy some tactile resistance, the MX Speed Silver could be an exciting option.
In conclusion, while the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch present appealing attributes in both sound and feel, they cater to slightly different preferences. The Deep Navy offers rich sound and smooth keystrokes, ideal for those who prioritize auditory enjoyment and a seamless typing experience. Conversely, the Speed Silver brings textured feedback and a deep thocky sound, making it an excellent choice for gamers and those who value tactile sensation. Ultimately, personal choice plays a vital role; whichever switch you choose, both options provide quality experiences that reflect their distinctive features.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between HMX Deep Navy linear switches and Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switches largely hinges on what you value most in your typing or gaming experience. If you prioritize a heavier feel and a rich, resonant sound profile, the Deep Navy switch, with its 45-gram bottom-out force and silky smoothness from the Ly stem, will be ideal for you. This switch excels in providing a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke, making it perfect for those who enjoy both typing and a tactile experience, whether for long writing sessions or casual use. On the other hand, if your focus is on rapid response time and speed—especially in competitive gaming scenarios—the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches are the way to go. With their immediate actuation, low spring resistance, and thocky sound profile, they cater specifically to gamers looking for that instant keypress feedback that can truly make a difference in performance. Ultimately, assess your priorities: if you value a smoother, more immersive typing experience, go with the Deep Navy; if your main concern is speed and responsiveness, reach for the MX Speed Silver.
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