Cherry MX Black vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Black and the HMX Swift mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches with their own unique characteristics. The MX Black is best known for its classic textured smoothness and deep sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a low-pitched and stiff typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Swift stands out with its deeper sound profile, silky smoothness, and light 42g actuation force, catering to those who enjoy a clacky, easy-to-press, and feathery typing feel. 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
60g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
Both the Cherry MX Black and the HMX Swift utilize nylon as the material for their housing components, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile when typing on the switches. Nylon, being a softer plastic, has the ability to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound. This common feature in both switches makes them ideal choices for users who prefer a quieter typing experience without sacrificing the tactile feedback.
While the MX Black and Swift share the same material for their top and bottom housing, the distribution of the housing qualities differs between the two switches. The bottom housing of a switch typically has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed, while the top housing affects the sound produced when a key is released. This variation in distribution means that the typing experience on each switch may have subtle differences in feedback and sound, depending on the specific design and construction of the switch components.
Overall, both the Cherry MX Black and the HMX Swift offer a similar sound profile due to their nylon housing materials. The softer nature of nylon allows for a quieter typing experience with a fuller sound, satisfying users who prioritize sound quality in their mechanical keyboards. Whether choosing the MX Black or the Swift, users can expect a consistent typing experience with minimal noise disruption, making them popular choices among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is clear that there are significant differences between the two. The Cherry MX Black switch has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, making it a heavier option. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switch has a lower actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option in comparison. The Cherry MX Black switch provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces, while the HMX Swift switch offers a lighter touch, ideal for those who prefer typing for longer periods of time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.9 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Cherry MX Black being slightly longer than the Swift. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the HMX Swift, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may find the Cherry MX Black more to their liking. Ultimately, both switches offer a decent travel distance that can provide a satisfying typing or gaming experience, depending on personal preference.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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
In terms of sound, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is characterized by its low-pitched profile, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone when typing. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch stands out with a clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy tone that is crisp and percussive. The MX Black provides a deep and familiar sound experience, while the Swift offers a unique and brighter sound signature. Whether you prefer a low-pitched bass-heavy sound or a clacky and sharp tone, both switches deliver distinct auditory experiences that can enhance your typing experience based on your personal preference, keyboard, and keycap choices.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is known for its textured and stiff qualities, offering noticeable friction when pressed and requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out. In contrast, the HMX Swift linear switch provides an easy-to-press and feathery typing experience, with gentle resistance, minimal force required to activate, and a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Swift switch has a bouncy and creamy feel, providing a spring-like feedback sensation and a smooth, buttery typing experience. Whether you prefer a textured and stiff typing feel or an easy-to-press and feathery sensation, both switches offer unique tactile experiences that can cater to different typing preferences and enhance your overall typing comfort and efficiency.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the MX Black provides a low-pitched sound profile with a textured and stiff typing feel, the Swift switch delivers a clacky sound with an easy-to-press and feathery typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound, feel, and typing performance, both switches can provide a satisfactory typing experience that aligns with your specific needs and preferences. If you are looking for a deep and mellow sound with a textured and stiff typing feel, the MX Black may be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a clacky sound with an easy-to-press and feathery typing experience, the Swift switch could be the perfect fit for you. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and can enhance your typing experience in different ways.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Cherry MX Black linear switch or the HMX Swift linear switch, you should factor in your typing preferences and needs. If you prefer a heavier actuation force and a deep, textured sound profile, the Cherry MX Black may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force, a silky smooth typing experience, and a deeper sound profile with a bright clacky tone, the HMX Swift switch may be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on which switch aligns better with your personal typing preferences and comfort level.
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