Gateron Mars vs. HMX Swift

Overview

When choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves comparing different options based on their unique characteristics and feel. The Gateron Mars switches are celebrated for their innovative design, featuring a POK stem and a housing made from a durable blend of Nylon and POM, which delivers a smooth and consistent keystroke. In contrast, the HMX Swift switches are recognized for their distinctive deeper sound profile, thanks to their full nylon housing, combined with a silky smooth actuation and a gentle 42g actuation force. The Mars switches may appeal to those seeking a blend of performance and durability, while the Swifts are an excellent choice for users who prioritize acoustic feedback and a softer touch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Gateron Mars Linear

HMX Swift Linear

$6.10

$5.50 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Mars and HMX Swift share similarities in their top housing materials, as both feature nylon. This conventional choice for switch housings is well-regarded for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. Due to nylon's softer characteristics, both switches produce a sound that is notably rounder and duller compared to switches utilizing harder plastics. Consequently, users can expect a consistent auditory experience from both the Mars and Swift, reinforcing the idea that the nylon top housing significantly shapes the sound produced during both keystrokes and key releases.

However, the bottom housing material differs between these two switches, which introduces unique characteristics to their overall performance. The Gateron Mars features a POM bottom housing that is renowned for delivering a particularly distinct and muted sound profile, accentuating the deeper tones of each keystroke. In contrast, the HMX Swift employs a nylon bottom housing that remains consistent with the top housing, contributing to a uniform sound experience. While both switches maintain a deeper sound profile, the Mars differentiates itself with the muted qualities offered by its POM bottom, providing a contrasting auditory experience to the Swift's nylon pairing.

Ultimately, the impact of these varying materials on the typing experience is most evident during both the bottoming out and the release of a key. With the Mars's POM bottom housing enhancing the weight and depth of the sound when a key is pressed down, users might notice a more pronounced auditory feedback upon bottoming out. Meanwhile, the HMX Swift’s nylon bottom housing would result in a sound more closely mirroring its top housing, maintaining a consistent sound with less emphasis on the bottom-out experience. Thus, while users of either switch can expect a pleasing sound profile, the distinct combination of housing materials allows for nuanced differences in sound and feel that shape their overall typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Mars linear switch to the HMX Swift linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Mars requires an actuation force of 45 grams, whereas the Swift is lighter with an actuation force of 42 grams. This makes the Swift a better option for those who prefer a lighter typing experience that allows for extended use without fatigue, ideal for long gaming sessions or work environments. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Swift has a known force of 50 grams for bottoming out, while the Mars lacks this specification, leaving its bottom out force unknown. This means that users may experience a more substantial key feel with the Swift, as it requires a heavier force to bottom out. In summary, the Gateron Mars is the heavier switch in terms of actuation force, while the HMX Swift is lighter and offers a more defined feedback when bottoming out, making it suitable for those who appreciate a stronger tactile experience.

Travel distance

The Gateron Mars linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.9 mm. This difference of 0.3 mm means that the Mars switch provides a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times for their actions. Conversely, the Swift switch's longer 3.9 mm travel distance could be preferable for those who enjoy a more substantial feel when pressing keys, as it offers a bit more depth during activation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will hinge on personal preference: the Mars caters to those favoring speed and responsiveness, while the Swift appeals to users looking for a more pronounced tactile experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Mars switch has not been explicitly detailed, leaving its auditory characteristics somewhat vague. In contrast, the HMX Swift switch is noted for its deeper sound profile, which is attributed to its full nylon housings. This distinction makes the Swift a preferable choice for those who enjoy a more subdued, rich sound when typing, which may contrast sharply with the potentially less defined sound of the Mars switch. Sound quality can also be influenced by the keyboard frame and keycap material, meaning players will ultimately have some control over how both switches sound in practice.

When it comes to feel, the Mars switch is not clearly described in the available information, so we cannot make a direct comparison in this regard. However, the HMX Swift switch boasts several desirable tactile characteristics. It is characterized as easy to press, promoting a lightweight typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue. Furthermore, the Swift features a feathery quality, enabling effortless key presses with a light actuation force. Users will also appreciate the bouncy rebounding sensation that these switches provide, alongside a creamy, silky smoothness that enhances the overall typing experience. These qualities contribute to a very comfortable and responsive feel that many enthusiasts find appealing, particularly during extended use.

Overall, while the Gateron Mars switch has unclear qualities in terms of sound and feel, the HMX Swift switch stands out with its deep sound profile and an exceptional tactile experience characterized by ease of pressing, feathery lightness, and smoothness. For those seeking a well-rounded keyboard switch, the Swifts may provide a more defined and pleasant experience, while the Mars might still deliver satisfactory performance if you're open to exploring a less defined sound and feel. If both options aren't strikingly different in certain aspects, you might still find that they can offer a comparable typing experience depending on your preferences and the specific keyboard build.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the Gateron Mars linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prioritize a super light and responsive touch without knowing the bottom-out force, the Mars might be your go-to as it excels in providing an effortless typing experience that feels silky smooth. This can be particularly beneficial for extended typing sessions, where comfort and reduced finger fatigue are paramount. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a light yet defined bottom-out force of 50 grams, the HMX Swift offers a unique blend of deeper sound and engaging tactile feedback, making it an excellent choice for both typing and gaming due to its bouncy and creamy character. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a bit of resistance while still enjoying a remarkably effortless keystroke. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you favor a more tranquil, nearly weightless feel with the Mars, or the more tactile and rich acoustic experience of the Swift, each catering to different styles and preferences in your mechanical keyboard journey.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Mars Linear

$6.10

$5.50 per 10

Learn more

HMX Swift Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more