KTT Lightning vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Lightning and HMX Swift both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Lightning is a linear switch that is perfect for those looking for a speedy typing experience, especially in intense gaming situations where every millisecond matters. With a slick type feel and clacky sound profile, the Lightning is categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Chirpy', 'Subtle', 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Swift, also a linear switch, stands out for its deeper sound profile and silky smoothness, thanks to its full nylon housings and delicate 42g actuation force. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'Easy-to-press', 'Feathery', 'Bouncy', 'Creamy', the Swift offers a unique typing experience. 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
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
Both the KTT Lightning and the HMX Swift feature different housing materials for their top and bottom components, with the Lightning housing its switches in polycarbonate while the Swift opts for nylon. The polycarbonate top housing in the Lightning creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for those looking for a more crisp typing experience. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Swift produces a deeper and fuller sound, catering to those who prefer a more rounded sound profile. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique sound experiences based on their housing materials.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Lightning and the Swift utilize nylon, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile for the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches. This signifies that while the top housing of the switches may differ in material, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in determining the overall sound and typing experience of the switch. Whether it's the KTT Lightning or the HMX Swift, users can expect a consistent sound profile based on the nylon bottom housing, offering a familiar typing experience across both switches.
While the top housing of the Lightning and the Swift may create different sound profiles due to the varied materials used, both switches share the common feature of using nylon for the bottom housing. This consistency ensures that users will experience a similar deep, full sound when bottoming out the keys, regardless of which switch they choose. Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Lightning and the HMX Swift comes down to personal preference in sound profile, with the polycarbonate top housing of the Lightning offering a crisper sound and the nylon top housing of the Swift providing a fuller sound experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is evident that both switches have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces. The Lightning switch has an actuation force of 43 grams, while the Swift switch has an actuation force of 42 grams. Both switches share the same bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of force required for keystrokes and bottoming out on both switches. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of these switches make them ideal for prolonged typing sessions, ensuring comfort and reduced fatigue. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference for a slightly lighter actuation force in the Swift switch or choosing the Lightning switch for its slightly heavier actuation force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Lightning linear switch is 3mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.9mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking faster response times, especially gamers. The Lightning switch, with its shorter travel distance, may offer a more immediate and responsive feel, making it a popular choice among users looking for quick key presses. On the other hand, the Swift switch, with its slightly longer travel distance, might provide a bit more depth and cushioning upon key press, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41 per 10 switches.
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 KTT Lightning linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched profile, providing a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch also has a clacky sound, but with a deeper tone attributed to its full nylon housings. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience depending on personal preferences and setup.
In terms of feel, the KTT Lightning switch is described as subtle and polished, offering a gentle resistance with a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Swift switch is known for being easy-to-press and feathery, providing minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Swift switch also offers a bouncy and creamy sensation, making keystrokes feel lively and buttery smooth.
Overall, both the KTT Lightning and HMX Swift linear switches have their own unique sound and feel characteristics that can cater to different typing preferences. If you enjoy a sharper and brighter sound with a slick typing feel, the Lightning switch might be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper sound profile with a silky smoothness and low-impact typing feel, the Swift switch could be more appealing. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Lightning linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider your priorities. If you value speed and precision in every keystroke, especially for gaming or fast-paced tasks, the Lightning switch with its light and snappy feel may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and deeper typing experience with a focus on comfort and effortless key presses, the Swift switch with its silky smooth feel and low actuation force might be more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to what type of typing experience you are looking for.
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