Dareu Holly vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Holly tactile switch to the HMX Swift linear switch, a clear distinction can be made in their sound profiles and actuation forces. The Holly switch, with its medium 50g actuation force, offers a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, appealing to users seeking a balanced and distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the Swift switch stands out for its deeper sound profile and silky smoothness, complemented by a delicate 42g actuation force. The Holly switch is best suited for those who prefer a tactile typing experience with a balanced sound profile, while the Swift switch is ideal for users looking for a smoother typing sensation with a deeper sound. 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
50g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Holly and the HMX Swift, it is clear that they both utilize nylon as a material for the bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Both the Holly and Swift benefit from the acoustic properties of nylon in their bottom housings, providing a satisfying typing experience with a more muted sound profile.
However, the top housings of the Dareu Holly and the HMX Swift differ in material, with the Holly using polycarbonate while the Swift opts for nylon. Polycarbonate in the Holly's top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Swift's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. Despite the differences in sound characteristics between the two materials, both the Holly and Swift offer unique typing experiences based on their choice of top housing material.
Overall, the combination of nylon bottom housing and either polycarbonate or nylon top housing in switches like the Dareu Holly and HMX Swift showcases the importance of housing materials in affecting sound profiles. While the Holly provides a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing, the Swift delivers a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon top housing. The choice between these two materials ultimately boils down to personal preference, as both offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. Ultimately, whether using polycarbonate or nylon, both the Dareu Holly and HMX Swift ensure a satisfying typing experience with their carefully chosen housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is evident that the Holly has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Swift's 42 grams. This means that the Holly requires more force to register a keystroke, providing a more tactile typing experience. However, the bottom out force for the Swift is 50 grams, which is unavailable for the Holly. This makes the Swift a lighter switch overall, as it requires less force to bottom out compared to the Holly. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Swift would be the more suitable option, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Holly would be ideal for users who prefer a more substantial typing feel with its higher actuation force. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing force and feedback.
Travel distance
The Dareu Holly tactile 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 traditional range of travel distances, with the Holly being slightly longer than the Swift. The 0.1 mm difference may not be significant to some users, but for those who prioritize faster response times, the Swift may be the preferred option. Gamers, in particular, may find the shorter travel distance more appealing for quick key presses. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more tactile and deep keystroke experience may lean towards the Holly switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
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
In terms of sound, the Dareu Holly tactile switch is known for its unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, providing a balanced and distinctive typing experience. The chirpy sound adds a little squeak to the switch, making it stand out, while the clacky sound is sharp and snappy, giving it a crisp and percussive tone. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch offers a deep sound profile with a silky smoothness, thanks to its full nylon housings. It produces a brighter sound compared to other HMX switches, giving it a unique auditory character. Both switches excel in sound quality, offering users the option to choose between a more chirpy and clacky profile with the Holly or a deeper and smoother sound with the Swift.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Holly switch does not have specific descriptors provided, making it unknown at this time. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch is described as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy. These descriptions indicate that the Swift switch offers a light actuation force, requiring minimal effort to activate the keys, while also providing a smooth and buttery typing experience. The feathery and bouncy sensations add to the overall typing feel, offering a comfortable and responsive experience for extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Dareu Holly tactile switch stands out for its unique sound signature with chirpy and clacky elements, catering to users looking for a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch impresses with its deeper sound profile and silky smoothness, offering a different auditory experience. While the feel of the Holly switch remains unknown, the HMX Swift switch provides an easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy typing experience, enhancing the overall typing feel. Both switches have their strengths, providing users with options to choose based on their sound and feel preferences. Ultimately, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with either switch, ensuring satisfaction in their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a distinctive typing experience with a medium actuation force and a unique sound that combines chirpy and clacky elements, the Dareu Holly switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother typing experience with a lighter actuation force and a deeper sound profile, the HMX Swift linear switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing feel and sound signature, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different user needs.
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