Keygeek Keygeek Raw vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Keygeek Raw and the HMX Swift mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Keygeek Raw stands out for its distinctive material blend, combining Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon to create a creamy yet lightweight switch with a slightly textured feel. On the other hand, the HMX Swift distinguishes itself with a deeper sound profile and silky smoothness, thanks to its full nylon housings and delicate 42g actuation force. While the Keygeek Raw is ideal for enthusiasts who prefer to hand-lube their switches, the HMX Swift offers a brighter sound signature and easy-to-press keys. 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
N/A
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The Keygeek Raw's housing materials, UMPE & Si blend for the bottom and Nylon & UPE blend for the top, offer a unique combination not found in other switches. The UMPE & Si blend in the bottom housing provides a different tactile experience than the Nylon bottom housing of the Swift. The UMPE & Si blend may offer a more crisp feel while typing, with potentially less sound absorption compared to the softer Nylon material. On the other hand, the Nylon top housing of the Keygeek Raw and the Swift both contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, creating a rich auditory experience for the user.
In terms of sound and feel, the impact of the bottom housing material is more noticeable during the bottom-out phase of pressing a key. The UMPE & Si blend in the bottom housing of the Keygeek Raw may result in a sharper and more pronounced bottom-out sound compared to the softer Nylon material in the Swift. However, when it comes to the release of the key, the top housing material plays a larger role. Both the Nylon top housing of the Keygeek Raw and the Swift contribute to a rounder and duller sound upon key release, adding to the overall typing experience.
Overall, while the Keygeek Raw and the HMX Swift both utilize Nylon in their housing materials, the unique blends used in the Keygeek Raw offer a different typing experience. The UMPE & Si blend in the bottom housing may provide a crisper feel when typing, while the Nylon & UPE blend in the top housing contributes to a deep and full sound profile. On the other hand, the HMX Swift's use of standard Nylon in both housing components may result in a consistent typing experience throughout the keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may depend on personal preference for feel and sound while typing.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is evident that there are significant differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Keygeek Raw has an actuation force of None grams, making it unknown, while the HMX Swift has an actuation force of 42 grams, making it lighter in comparison. In terms of bottom out force, the Keygeek Raw requires 57.5 grams, which is medium, while the HMX Swift requires 50 grams, making it slightly lighter. The Keygeek Raw offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, while the HMX Swift provides a lighter touch for those who prefer less resistance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with some gravitating towards the Keygeek Raw for a more significant push feel and others opting for the HMX Swift for a lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is clear that the Keygeek Raw has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HMX Swift has a longer travel distance of 3.9 mm. The difference may seem small, but it can impact the feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Keygeek Raw with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more pronounced key press might opt for the HMX Swift with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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 Keygeek Raw linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch is known for its clacky sound, providing a sharp and percussive experience. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard layout and keycap material chosen.
Moving on to feel, the Keygeek Raw switch delivers a textured and mild typing experience, with a subtle resistance that is suitable for shared spaces. Additionally, its creamy yet lightweight construction adds to the overall typing comfort. Conversely, the HMX Swift switch is described as easy-to-press and feathery, offering a low-impact and responsive typing feel that reduces finger fatigue during extended use. The bouncy sensation of the Swift adds a playful and dynamic touch to the typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Keygeek Raw and HMX Swift linear switches offer distinct sound and feel characteristics, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts. Whether you prefer a neutral sound profile and textured feel with the Keygeek Raw, or a clacky sound and easy-to-press sensation with the HMX Swift, you can expect reliable performance and versatility from either switch. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a slightly textured feel with a moderate actuation force and a creamy yet lightweight switch, the Keygeek Raw may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, easy-to-press switch with a silky smooth sound profile and a lighter actuation force, the HMX Swift might be more suitable for your typing needs. Consider factors such as sound, feel, actuation force, and material blend to determine which switch aligns best with your typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
