SP-Star Meteor White vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor White and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the SP-Star Meteor White and the HMX Swift both offer unique characteristics worth considering. The Meteor White is a linear switch known for its gentle and subdued feel, providing a soft typing experience with a pitter-patter sound profile. On the other hand, the Swift, also a linear switch, stands out for its deep sound profile and silky smoothness, thanks to its full nylon housings and delicate 42g actuation force. While the Meteor White is categorized as neutral, mild, thocky, and polished, the Swift is described as clacky, easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, 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
N/A
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
Nylon
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
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The SP-Star Meteor White and the HMX Swift both use nylon as their housing material, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The similarities in housing material between the two switches suggest that users can expect comparable sound experiences when typing on both the Meteor White and the Swift switches.
However, while the Meteor White and the Swift both have nylon top and bottom housings, the distribution of these materials within the switches may affect the typing experience. The bottom housing of a switch typically has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This means that even though both switches share the same housing materials, the positioning of these materials within the switches could result in subtle differences in typing feel and sound between the Meteor White and the Swift.
In summary, the SP-Star Meteor White and the HMX Swift offer similar typing experiences due to their shared use of nylon as the housing material for both the top and bottom of the switches. While differences may exist in how the housing materials are distributed within the switches, leading to slight variations in typing feel and sound, users can expect a consistent level of depth and fullness in sound when using either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the Meteor White and the Swift may come down to personal preference and individual typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, we can see that the actuation force of the Meteor White is None grams, while the Swift requires 42 grams to actuate. This makes the Swift lighter in terms of actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Meteor White requires 57 grams, which is heavier compared to the Swift's 50 grams. The Meteor White provides a medium-light bottom out force, while the Swift offers a light bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may prefer the Swift due to its lower actuation force, while those looking for a more substantial feel may lean towards the Meteor White with its heavier bottom out force. In both cases, users can expect a different typing experience based on the actuation and bottom out forces of each switch.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch is 4 mm, while the travel distance of the HMX Swift linear switch is 3.9 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances, with the Meteor White being slightly longer than the Swift. A difference of 0.1 mm may not be noticeable to some users, but for those who are sensitive to keypress depth, it could make a difference in the typing experience. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the slightly shorter travel distance of the Swift, while those who prefer a bit more depth in their keypresses may opt for the Meteor White. Overall, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, so users can expect comparable results from both.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White for $5.00.
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 SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offers a neutral and thocky sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. It produces a moderate and satisfying sound when pressed, perfect for both beginners and advanced users. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch has a clacky sound profile, providing a sharper and snappier sound when pressed. This deep sound, paired with its smoothness and delicate 42g actuation force, gives it a unique and satisfying auditory experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Meteor White is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle and refined typing experience. Its smooth and middle-ground qualities make it approachable to most users, providing reduced friction and a sleek typing feel. In contrast, the HMX Swift is known for being easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy. These characteristics create a light and effortless typing experience, reducing finger fatigue and providing a smooth and buttery sensation with each keystroke.
Overall, while both the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, they cater to slightly different preferences. The Meteor White is best suited for those looking for a soft and subdued typing experience, while the Swift stands out with its deeper sound profile and light actuation force. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can expect a satisfying typing experience from both switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a gentle and soft typing experience with a moderate actuation force and sound profile, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper sound profile with a lighter actuation force and a smooth, silky feel, the HMX Swift linear switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a soft and polished typing experience with the Meteor White or a smooth and easy-to-press feel with the Swift. Consider your typing style and preferences to determine which switch would best suit your needs.
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