KTT Laurel vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Laurel and HMX Swift are both linear switches that offer unique qualities for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Laurel is praised for its medium-light feel, short travel distance, and full POM housing, providing a perfect blend of responsiveness and comfort. With a subtly low-pitched sound profile, it appeals to those looking for a quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the Swift sets itself apart with its deeper sound profile and silky smooth feel, thanks to its full nylon housing. The Swift also boasts a delicate 42g actuation force, making it easy to press and bouncy to type on. While the Laurel is known for being snappy, the Swift is described as clacky, feathery, and creamy. 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
43g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22m spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Laurel and the HMX Swift, namely POM and nylon, both offer unique sound profiles to the switches. The POM top and bottom housings of the Laurel create a deeper and more muted sound, while the nylon housings of the Swift elicit a fuller and rounder sound due to its softer and more sound-absorbent nature. Despite these differences, both materials provide a pleasing typing experience that caters to individuals seeking a specific sound profile in their mechanical keyboards.
One key difference between the two housing materials is the material itself: POM is a harder plastic compared to nylon. This variance in material hardness contributes to the distinct sound profiles of the Laurel and Swift switches. While POM creates a more muted and deeper sound, nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a fuller and rounder typing experience. Additionally, the impact of each housing material on the switch's overall sound profile is evident when typing, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Laurel and Swift switches, both serve their purpose in providing a unique typing experience. Whether one prefers the deeper and more muted sound of POM or the fuller and rounder sound of nylon, there is a housing material option that caters to individual preferences. The choice between POM and nylon ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired sound profile for each user's mechanical keyboard setup.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, both switches have a light actuation force. The Laurel has an actuation force of 43 grams, while the Swift is slightly lighter at 42 grams. In terms of bottom out force, both switches have the same force of 50 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience that allows for longer periods of typing or gaming, either switch would be suitable. However, for those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Swift may be slightly preferable due to its slightly lower actuation force. Overall, the differences in actuation force between the two switches are minimal, indicating that users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Laurel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.9 mm. The Laurel provides a shorter travel distance compared to the Swift, offering a potentially faster response time for users, which may be preferred by gamers. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance to feel abrupt. On the other hand, the Swift's longer travel distance may provide a deeper key press experience that some users prefer, even though it may result in a slightly slower response time. Ultimately, choosing between the Laurel and the Swift depends on personal preference regarding travel distance and how it impacts the typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 KTT Laurel switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, which typically provides a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switch is described as producing a clacky sound, which is sharp, snappy, and percussive. The choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, as the Laurel provides a more subtle and gentle sound experience, while the Swift offers a crisper and brighter sound.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Laurel switch is known for being snappy, offering a super responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switch is described as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy. The Swift switch provides a lighter actuation force, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, and offers a smooth, buttery typing experience. The Laurel switch, with its snappy response, is ideal for those who prefer a more tactile feel during typing.
Overall, the KTT Laurel linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch offer different sound and feel experiences, catering to a variety of preferences. The Laurel switch provides a low-pitched sound profile and a snappy typing feel, while the Swift switch offers a deeper sound profile and a smoother, lighter typing experience. Both switches have their unique qualities, and choosing between the two will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel. Ultimately, both switches offer excellent options for those seeking a linear switch for their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the KTT Laurel linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it all comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a keyboard switch. If you value a medium-light actuation force, a low-pitched sound profile, and a snappy feel, the KTT Laurel switch may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer an easy-to-press switch with a deep sound profile, a feathery feel, and a bouncy sensation, the HMX Swift switch might be more suited to your typing style. Consider your typing habits, preferences, and the characteristics that are most important to you when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, the choice is yours to make based on what feels right for your typing experience.
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