Keygeek Keylin vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keylin and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the Keygeek Keylin and the HMX Swift linear switches stand out for their unique qualities, catering to different typing preferences. The Keylin is celebrated for its premium typing experience, thanks to its newly designed molds that produce rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness. It's an excellent choice for those seeking a refined and quiet typing feel. In contrast, the HMX Swift switches offer a distinct auditory experience with a deeper sound profile, attributed to their full nylon housings. Their 42g actuation force provides a silky smooth keypress that many users find enjoyable. While both switches embody the linear category, the Keylin focuses on delivering a more muted yet smooth experience, while the Swift leans towards a livelier, clackier sensation. 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
38g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
Ly
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
21mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Keygeek Keylin and the HMX Swift, both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, which leads to similar acoustic characteristics and tactile responses. Nylon is renowned for its softer texture which plays a crucial role in shaping the overall sound profile when typing. The deeper and fuller sound profile produced when using switches constructed from nylon can be attributed to this material's ability to absorb sound, resulting in a more subdued auditory experience compared to the sharper sounds produced by harder plastics. Therefore, users of both the Keylin and Swift models can expect a rounder and more pleasant typing sound, largely due to the shared composition of their housings.
In addition to the similarities in acoustic performance, the consistent use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings in both models ensures that the typing experience is also closely matched in terms of feel. The characteristics inherent in nylon allow for a smoother keystroke experience, minimizing harsh bottom-out impacts and offering a comfortable tactile response when the keys return to their resting position. Because both user experiences are grounded in the nylon material, they will not only sound similar but also provide a comparable sense of responsiveness as keys are pressed and released.
If the housing materials were to differ between models, there could be a more pronounced distinction in the typing experience, particularly regarding sound and tactile feedback. With varied materials, the unique properties of each housing would influence the overall vibration and sound when a key is pressed or released. However, since both the Keylin and Swift are constructed entirely from nylon, users can confidently expect similar results across both keyboards. This uniformity in material contributes to a cohesive typing experience, where variations in sound and feel are minimized, ensuring that both the Keylin and Swift deliver a satisfyingly rich type feel and auditory performance.
Weight
The Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch both exhibit light actuation forces, making them suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. The Keylin has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Swift requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means the Keylin is the lighter switch, providing a less strenuous experience for typists and gamers who prefer a more effortless keystroke. In contrast, the Swift, although still considered light, offers a marginally firmer resistance, catering to users who appreciate a more substantial feel during typing. While both switches have similar characteristics regarding their light nature, the Keylin's lower actuation and bottom out forces make it the preferred choice for those seeking ease of use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is clear that the Keylin, with a travel distance of 3.6 mm, is shorter than the Swift, which has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. This slight difference indicates that users who prioritize faster response times, such as gamers, may find the Keylin more appealing due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Swift's longer travel distance may cater to those who appreciate a more substantial feel when typing, as it provides a deeper experience. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct advantages depending on individual preferences: the Keylin for responsiveness and the Swift for a more hearty depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin for $3.29.
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 Keylin linear switch is noted for its rich acoustics, enhancing the overall typing experience with a deeper, more resonant sound. This switch is designed to produce a satisfying auditory feedback without being harsh or overly loud, making it suitable for a variety of environments. In contrast, the HMX Swift linear switch features a clackier profile, which delivers a crisp, bright, and percussive sound that can be quite engaging. The unique construction of the Swift, particularly its full nylon housing, contributes to its deeper sound signature, resulting in a different auditory experience. Overall, while both switches offer distinct sound qualities, the Keylin leans towards a rich, warm tone, whereas the Swift presents a sharper, more pronounced sound.
When it comes to feel, the Keylin's attributes are associated with exceptional smoothness, likely translating to a very satisfying tactile experience with little resistance. This makes it ideal for comfortable typing sessions where performance remains paramount. The Swift, however, shines with its easy-to-press nature, which significantly reduces finger fatigue thanks to its delicate 42g actuation force. Additionally, the Swift is characterized as feathery and creamy, suggesting a light touch that enhances the overall sensation of movement and responsiveness. The bouncy quality offers a delightful feedback on release, promoting an engaging typing experience. Together, these qualities contribute to a dynamic feel that is both pleasurable and efficient, yet the Keylin may provide a more traditional feel that some users might prefer.
Concluding on these switches, both the Keylin and HMX Swift linear switches provide unique experiences catering to different preferences. The Keylin offers a rich auditory experience paired with exceptional smoothness, making it a good choice for users who appreciate a subtler touch and sound. Meanwhile, the Swift stands out with its clanky sound signature and featherlight actuation, appealing to those who favor a more pronounced auditory feedback and effortless typing experience. Ultimately, selecting between these two will depend on whether one's priorities lie in sound or feel, as each switch offers distinct advantages in their respective domains.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences for typing feel and sound profile. If you seek a lightweight switch that offers a premium typing experience characterized by smoothness and rich acoustics, the Keylin may be the perfect fit for you. Its bottom-out force of 48 grams makes for an effortless typing experience, ideal for those long writing sessions or productivity tasks. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a deeper sound profile and an easy-to-press feel, the HMX Swift would be a wise choice. With its slight increase in bottom-out force at 50 grams, it balances responsiveness with a comforting tactile feedback—perfect for anyone who values both sound and a creamy, feathery action while typing or gaming. Ultimately, consider what aspects matter most to you: the buttery smoothness and acoustics of the Keylin versus the clacky, bouncy, and delicate feel of the HMX Swift, and let that guide your decision.
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