Bsun Kiki Red vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Bsun Kiki Red and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Kiki Red and HMX Swift both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Kiki Reds provide a nuanced typing experience with a high-pitched, clacky sound that is not overly loud, thanks to their POM housings and smooth actuation facilitated by Ly stems. With medium-light weighting, these switches are favored by enthusiasts who appreciate subtle auditory feedback and performance finesse. On the other hand, the Swift switches from HMX offer a deeper sound profile due to their nylon housings, paired with a silky smoothness and a delicate 42g actuation force. While both switches share characteristics such as being clacky and easy-to-press, the Kiki Reds are described as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press, while the Swifts are categorized as feathery and bouncy in addition to their clacky and creamy attributes. 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
N/A
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
Ly
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Kiki Red and the HMX Swift both offer unique sound profiles, with the Kiki Red utilizing POM for both the top and bottom housing, while the Swift uses nylon for the top and bottom housing. POM is known for creating a pleasing and deeper sound profile that is relatively more muted, whereas nylon produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. While both materials aim to enhance the overall typing experience, they achieve this in slightly different ways.
In terms of sound production, the POM housing of the Kiki Red emphasizes a deep and muted sound profile that is consistent across both the top and bottom housing. This creates a cohesive typing experience that is pleasing to the ear. On the other hand, the Swift's use of nylon for both the top and bottom housing also results in a deep and fuller sound, but with a slightly different tonality due to the unique properties of nylon. Despite these differences, both switches offer a satisfying sound experience that appeals to enthusiasts looking for a unique typing feel.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housing on the overall typing experience, it is clear that both the Kiki Red and the Swift prioritize sound quality. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing the key. This balance of sound production between the top and bottom housings ensures that each keystroke is accompanied by a distinct and enjoyable sound, making both switches appealing choices for those looking to enhance their typing experience with high-quality housing materials.
Weight
Both the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch have the same actuation force of 42 grams and bottom out force of 50 grams, making them equally light in terms of force required for key presses. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of force across both switches. The light actuation force allows for faster typing speeds and lighter touch, ideal for users who prefer a lighter feel when typing for extended periods. However, the bottom out force of 50 grams provides a bit of resistance for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Overall, both switches offer a balance between a light actuation force and a slightly heavier bottom out force for a versatile typing experience.
Travel distance
The Bsun Kiki Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it shorter than the HMX Swift linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. The Kiki Red offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for fast reactions. On the other hand, the Swift provides a bit more depth when typing, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more distinct feel when pressing down on a key. Both switches offer a comfortable amount of travel distance that falls within the range of preferences for many users, ensuring that regardless of choice, you'll get a satisfying typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Kiki Red has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Kiki Red for $3.83.
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, both the Bsun Kiki Red and HMX Swift switches are described as having a "clacky" sound profile. This means that they both produce a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory feedback. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Kiki Red switch is characterized by its "creamy" and "polished" typing experience. These descriptors indicate that the switch offers a smooth and buttery feel with reduced friction, resulting in a sleek and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Swift switch is known for its "easy-to-press" and "feathery" feel. This means that it requires minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable, particularly for extended typing sessions.
Overall, while both the Bsun Kiki Red and HMX Swift switches offer unique sound and feel characteristics, they ultimately provide a satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts. Whether you prefer the subtly high-pitched clack of the Kiki Red or the deep yet smooth sound of the Swift, both switches deliver on performance and quality. So, regardless of your choice between the two, you can expect a similar level of satisfaction in your typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, your choice should be based on your personal preference for typing experience. If you value a finely-tuned, high-pitched, clacky nuance with medium-light weighting for a subtle auditory feedback and smooth actuation, the Kiki Red may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper sound profile with silky smoothness and a delicate 42g actuation force for a comfortable typing experience, the Swift switch could be more suitable. Consider your typing style, desired sound, and tactile feedback when making your decision to ensure a satisfying mechanical keyboard switch experience.
Mentioned in this article
