Durock Light Tactile vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Light Tactile and the HMX Swift offer unique experiences for users seeking different qualities. The Light Tactile switch from Durock stands out for its gentle tactility, providing a softer and more subtle experience compared to other tactile switches. On the other hand, the HMX Swift offers a linear switch option with a deeper sound profile and smooth actuation, making typing a silky smooth experience. While the Light Tactile is best known for its polished and mild tactility, the Swift stands out for its clacky and easy-to-press nature. If you prefer a softer and gentler typing experience, the Light Tactile may be the switch for you. However, if you enjoy a deeper sound profile and smooth actuation, the Swift may be more up your alley. 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
52g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and the HMX Swift, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon in their bottom housing. This material choice contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound and create a duller and rounder tone. While the Light Tactile and the Swift may share this similar quality in their bottom housing, the differentiation in their top housing materials sets them apart. The Light Tactile utilizes polycarbonate in its top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to polycarbonate's stiffer nature. On the other hand, the Swift employs nylon in its top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Light Tactile.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches, it becomes apparent that the choice of material for both the top and bottom housing plays a significant role. The Light Tactile's polycarbonate top housing contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, especially when combined with RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Swift's nylon top housing enhances the typing experience by creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The differentiation in top housing materials ultimately influences the sound produced when pressing down on a key and when releasing it, highlighting the importance of material selection in switch design.
While the Light Tactile and the Swift may offer differing sound profiles due to their choice of housing materials, both switches showcase the impact of material selection on overall performance. Whether it is the sharper, crisper sound profile of the Light Tactile's polycarbonate top housing or the deeper, fuller tones produced by the Swift's nylon top housing, each material brings its own unique qualities to the typing experience. Additionally, the utilization of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches emphasizes the importance of sound absorption and creating a rounded sound profile. Ultimately, the housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and the HMX Swift play a crucial role in shaping the overall feel and sound characteristics of these switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is evident that the Swift has a lighter actuation and bottom out force compared to the Light Tactile. The Light Tactile has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Swift has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which classifies it as a lighter switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience to prevent fatigue during long typing sessions or gaming marathons, the Swift would be the preferred choice. On the other hand, if someone desires a more substantial typing feel with a stronger push, the Light Tactile would be a better fit. Both switches provide different levels of resistance, catering to the preferences of different users.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, the Light Tactile has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Swift has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.9 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Light Tactile being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Swift for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Light Tactile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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 Durock Light Tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile, which is moderate and suitable for various settings and users. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switch provides a clacky sound with a sharp and percussive quality when pressed. Depending on your choice of keyboard and keycaps, the sound of the switch can be further influenced.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Light Tactile switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and refined feel to most users. In contrast, the HMX Swift switch is easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy, providing a light actuation force and a smooth, buttery typing sensation. These qualities enhance the typing experience by reducing finger fatigue and providing a responsive and comfortable feel during extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, if you prefer a gentler tactility and a softer sound profile, the Durock Light Tactile switch may be the right fit for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a deeper sound profile and a light, smooth typing experience, the HMX Swift switch could be a better option. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them ultimately depends on your personal typing preference and the overall typing experience you desire. While the switches offer distinct characteristics, based on the information provided, you can expect similar results in terms of quality and performance from either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a gentle and angelic tactility with a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Light Tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother typing experience with a deeper sound profile and silky smoothness, the HMX Swift linear switch would be more suitable. The Light Tactile is best suited for those who enjoy a more neutral sound profile and a mild, polished typing experience. Conversely, the Swift is perfect for those who prefer a clacky sound and easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, or creamy feel in their switches. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches would depend on your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel.
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