TTC Flaming Pink vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Pink and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Flaming Pink and the HMX Swift linear switches offer distinctive experiences that cater to varying preferences. The Flaming Pink switches are celebrated for their smooth and responsive feel, making them ideal for both gamers and typists seeking a premium experience without excessive noise; their satisfying bottom-out sound strikes a balance between presence and quietude. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switches differentiate themselves with a deeper sound profile, a silky smoothness, and a light 42g actuation force that create an effortless and enjoyable typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a clackier, more delicate feedback. While both switches present unique advantages—whether it's the Flaming Pink's refined auditory experience or the Swift's bouncy, creamy touch—let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
When analyzing the housing materials of the TTC Flaming Pink and the HMX Swift, several key differences emerge that impact their acoustic profiles. The Flaming Pink features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This is largely due to polycarbonate’s rigidity, which contributes to a clearer and more resonant tone, particularly beneficial for those using RGB lighting, as its translucency amplifies visual effects. In contrast, the HMX Swift utilizes a nylon top housing, characterized by a softer and more flexible nature. This results in a deeper, fuller sound profile that tends to absorb vibrations rather than amplify them, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience. Thus, while both switches aim to provide unique sound profiles, their differing top housing materials cater to distinct auditory preferences.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of both the TTC Flaming Pink and the HMX Swift are made from nylon, which creates a level of uniformity in their sound profiles. Nylon, being a classic housing material, is known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller acoustic output. In this regard, both switches share the same foundational sound quality from their nylon bottom housings. The similarities in bottom housing material mean that users can expect alike auditory characteristics concerning the bottom-out sound, where the impact of the switch’s actuation would typically resonate more profoundly due to the absorbing nature of nylon.
In summary, while the TTC Flaming Pink and the HMX Swift share a common material in their bottom housing, their top housings diverge significantly in composition and sonic effects. The polycarbonate top of the Flaming Pink contributes to a more vibrant and defined sound during key release, whereas the nylon top of the Swift offers a smoother and heavier quality. Consequently, users may find that although the bottom-out experience is similar due to the nylon material, the overall auditory experience will differ in nuance due to the contrasting properties of their respective top housings. Thus, sound characteristics can be perceived as a collaborative interaction between these materials, emphasizing the unique profile each switch can deliver.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, both switches exhibit light actuation forces, with the Flaming Pink requiring 43 grams to actuate and the Swift needing slightly less at 42 grams. This means that for users who prefer a lighter touch, both options are appealing, as they facilitate longer typing sessions and are suited for work or gaming environments. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, both switches have the same bottoming out measurement of 50 grams, highlighting a uniformity in the force required to fully press the key down. Overall, the Swift is marginally lighter in terms of actuation force, making it a better option for those who prioritize a lighter typing experience, while both switches offer a consistent bottom out force for a satisfying keystroke experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Flaming Pink and the HMX Swift linear switches, we find that the Flaming Pink features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Swift has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.9 mm. This means that if you're looking for a switch that offers a quicker response time, the Flaming Pink would be the preferable choice due to its shorter travel distance. Shorter distances are often favored by gamers seeking rapid key presses, while the HMX Swift's longer travel may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial feel when pressing down on keys. Ultimately, if you value speed and responsiveness, the Flaming Pink is the better option, whereas the Swift may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer it.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Pink has an MSRP of $4.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Pink for $4.00.
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
The sound of the TTC Flaming Pink switch is characterized by a pleasant and satisfying bottom-out tone, which strikes a balance between being bright and not overly loud. This makes it suitable for both gaming and casual use, providing an enjoyable auditory feedback that enhances the typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Swift switch has a distinctively clacky sound profile, producing a sharper and crisper tone during key presses. This percussive quality, combined with the deeper sound signature provided by its full nylon housing, offers a more engaging and lively auditory sensation that may appeal more to those who enjoy feedback in their typing sounds.
When it comes to feel, the Flaming Pink switch is celebrated for its smooth and responsive operation, making it a joy to type on for extended periods. The consistent actuation without any noticeable resistance ensures that each keystroke feels effortless, promoting an enhanced typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switch excels with its light actuation force of 42g, described as easy to press, bouncy, and even feathery. This multifaceted feel allows for a comfortable typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue, while the creamy texture enhances the overall smoothness, making it particularly suitable for long typing sessions, whether for gaming or productivity.
In conclusion, while both the TTC Flaming Pink and HMX Swift linear switches offer unique auditory and tactile experiences, they each cater to different preferences. The Flaming Pink provides a smooth yet balanced sound, ideal for users who appreciate subtle auditory feedback, whereas the Swift stands out with a more pronounced clacky sound and an incredibly light, responsive feel. Ultimately, both switches promise an enjoyable typing experience, but the choice between them will depend on whether a user prefers a more subtle auditory experience or a livelier, more reactive feedback.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the TTC Flaming Pink and HMX Swift linear switches, your choice should hinge on your personal preferences in both sound and feel during your typing or gaming sessions. If you appreciate a smooth, responsive feel coupled with a sound that strikes a balance between pleasingly audible and not overly loud, the Flaming Pink might be your ideal switch. Its design supports a well-rounded experience for both gaming and everyday tasks, catering to those who enjoy a satisfying bottom-out sound without it becoming a distraction. On the other hand, if you lean towards a typing experience that feels exceptionally light and effortless, and you enjoy a deeper, clacky sound profile, the HMX Swift is tailored for you. Its feathery actuation force paired with a robust sound makes it perfect for prolonged gaming or typing, ensuring that fatigue is minimized while still delivering an engaging auditory feedback. Ultimately, consider what aspects mean the most to you, as both switches provide their own unique benefits depending on how you plan to use your mechanical keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
