TTC Honey vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the TTC Honey and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Honey and HMX Swift both offer unique traits that cater to different preferences. The TTC Honey is praised for its smooth and creamy feel, along with a deep and pleasant sound profile. On the other hand, the HMX Swift stands out with its deeper sound profile and silky smoothness, thanks to its full nylon housings. While the Honey is categorized as 'Subdued', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Buttery', 'Subtle', 'Polished', the Swift is described as 'Clacky', 'Easy-to-press', 'Feathery', 'Bouncy', 'Creamy'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, making them suitable for various typing preferences. 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
42g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
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
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Honey and the HMX Swift offer distinct characteristics that influence the sound profile and feel of the switches. The Honey features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiff plastic that produces a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Swift utilizes a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. These differences in top housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience of each switch.
Similarly, the bottom housing materials of the TTC Honey and the HMX Swift impact the overall sound and feel of the switches. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Honey mirrors the characteristics of its top housing, creating a sharp and crisp sound profile. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Swift leads to a deeper and fuller sound during typing. The difference in bottom housing materials further distinguishes the typing experience between the two switches, as the bottom-out sound and feel are influenced by the properties of the bottom housing material.
Overall, the contrasting housing materials of the TTC Honey and the HMX Swift result in unique typing experiences for users. While the polycarbonate top and bottom housings of the Honey produce a sharp and resonant sound, the nylon top and bottom housings of the Swift offer a deeper and softer sound profile. Despite these differences, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience with distinct sound profiles thanks to their carefully chosen housing materials. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Honey linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same actuation force and bottom out force. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of the pressure needed to trigger a keystroke and the force required to fully press a key. Both switches have an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making them relatively light switches. This lightness can be beneficial for users who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, whether for work or gaming. However, for those who prefer a heavier push feel for a more substantial typing feedback, both switches may not provide the desired level of resistance. Ultimately, the decision between the Honey and Swift switches may come down to personal preference regarding the typing experience and the desired weight of the keys.
Travel distance
The TTC Honey linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.9 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for users who prioritize quick responsiveness. Gamers, in particular, tend to favor shorter travel distances for faster response times. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance of the Honey switch to feel too abrupt, while others may appreciate the slightly longer travel distance of the Swift switch for a more substantial key press. Overall, the Honey switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Swift switch, but both can provide similar results depending on individual preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Honey linear switch offers a subdued and dampened sound profile, providing a more subtle typing experience compared to most switches. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch produces a clacky and sharp sound when pressed, offering a crisp and bright sound signature. The use of different keycaps and boards can also influence the overall sound of these switches, so it's important to consider these factors when choosing between them.
In terms of feel, the TTC Honey switch is described as creamy, frictionless, buttery, subtle, and polished, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance and smooth key travel. Alternatively, the HMX Swift switch is characterized as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy, providing a light actuation force for effortless and comfortable typing sessions. Both switches emphasize a smooth and gentle typing sensation, catering to different preferences in terms of key feel.
Overall, while the TTC Honey and HMX Swift linear switches offer distinct sound and feel characteristics, they both prioritize a smooth and comfortable typing experience for users. Whether you prefer the subdued and dampened sound of the Honey switch or the clacky and sharp sound of the Swift switch, both options provide a satisfying key feel with their respective features. Ultimately, your choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound and feel, so consider trying out both to see which one aligns better with your typing style.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the TTC Honey linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a smoother and creamier typing experience with a deep and pleasant sound profile, the TTC Honey switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a silky smooth feel with a lighter actuation force and a deeper sound profile, the HMX Swift switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Take into account your typing style and preferences to choose the switch that best fits your needs.
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