Cherry MX Orange vs. HMX Swift

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Cherry MX Orange and the HMX Swift can significantly shape your typing or gaming experience. The Cherry MX Orange switches, known for their revival of the original MX Orange design, offer a reliable linear action that appeals to users who prefer a steady, uninterrupted keypress without auditory feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switches are characterized by a unique deeper sound profile due to their full nylon housings, complemented by a silky smooth feel and a gentle actuation force of 42g. This switch tends to provide a more clacky and feathery typing experience that many find enjoyable for both casual and competitive settings. While both switches cater to the linear preference, their distinctions in sound, feel, and actuation force can influence your decision. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for you.

By the numbers

Cherry MX Orange Linear

HMX Swift Linear

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Cherry MX Orange and the HMX Swift are strikingly similar, as both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, characterized by its ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. With both switches sharing nylon as their primary material, users can expect to achieve comparable aural results, giving rise to a duller and rounder sound that is less harsh than other switch types. This shared characteristic in housing material not only supports a pleasing acoustic environment but also aligns seamlessly with users seeking a smooth typing experience.

While the housing materials of both switches are identical, the impact of each component's acoustic properties plays a significant role. The bottom housing significantly influences the perceived sound when the key bottoms out, while the top housing affects the sound and feel upon key release. Given that both the MX Orange and HMX Swift employ nylon for both components, the overall typing experience will be notably enriched as the softer plastic's inherent qualities are harmoniously integrated throughout. Due to the identical material choice, users will experience a consistent sound signature in both switches, giving them confidence that they are selecting a switch that will produce consistent auditory feedback and tactile performance.

In essence, the use of nylon in both the Cherry MX Orange and the HMX Swift solidifies their identity as switches that prioritize sound quality and user satisfaction. The shared characteristics promise to deliver a relatable experience for typists who cherish a sound profile that is both deep and full. It is this alignment in housing materials that allows users to switch between the two with minimal expectations of variance, thus ensuring a cohesive transition in their typing endeavors. The nylon composition in both cases underscores a dedication to creating a harmonious typing acoustic that will resonate well with users, regardless of which switch they ultimately choose.

Weight

The Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch offer distinct experiences when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. The Cherry MX Orange requires an actuation force of 55 grams, making it the heavier option, which provides a more substantial feel during typing and can be preferable for users who enjoy a firmer push. In contrast, the HMX Swift has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, making it easier to press, ideal for prolonged use during long typing sessions or gaming. The bottom out force for the Cherry MX Orange is unknown, while the Swift's bottom out force is specified at 50 grams. This indicates that though the HMX Swift is lighter in actuation force, it still provides a satisfying resistance when fully pressed down, whereas the MX Orange's bottom out characteristics remain undefined. Therefore, users who prefer a lighter feel may gravitate towards the HMX Swift, while those who favor a firmer typing experience would benefit from the Cherry MX Orange.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, the Cherry MX Orange has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Swift features a slightly shorter distance of 3.9 mm. This means that the MX Orange provides a more substantial depth, which may appeal to users who appreciate a more tactile experience and the feeling of bottoming out on keys. In contrast, the shorter 3.9 mm travel of the HMX Swift allows for quicker responses, which could be advantageous for gamers looking for faster actuation times. While the difference in travel distance is minimal, with only a 0.1 mm gap, it can influence user preference significantly; people who favor a more pronounced keystroke will gravitate towards the MX Orange, while those who prefer a snappier response may choose the Swift.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Cherry MX Orange switch has a relatively neutral sound profile that tends to be less pronounced compared to the HMX Swift. The MX Orange operates with a subdued acoustic signature that can be pleasant for quieter environments, allowing for a more focused typing experience. In contrast, the Swift has a more pronounced auditory feedback with a clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed, which can be both crisp and percussive. This makes the Swift a more lively option for those who enjoy a more engaging auditory experience when typing, though it’s important to remember that sound can vary significantly based on the keyboard construction and keycap choice.

When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Orange is generally smooth and linear, providing an easy actuation that many find consistent, though specific details about its tactile feedback were not provided. The HMX Swift, on the other hand, shines with an easy-to-press nature characterized by gentle resistance, making it a breeze to type on. This switch features an actuation force of just 42g, contributing to an effortlessly responsive typing experience. Users may also appreciate its feathery lightness that minimizes finger fatigue, making it comfortable for extended use. The bouncy and creamy aspects of the Swift add to its overall appeal, providing a lively, springy sensation that makes each keystroke feel satisfying and smooth.

In conclusion, both the Cherry MX Orange and HMX Swift switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The MX Orange leans towards a quieter operation, suited for users who prefer a less intrusive auditory experience, while the Swift offers a more pronounced sound and an incredibly light, lively typing experience. While they cater to distinct tastes, both switches can provide enjoyable typing experiences depending on individual needs, allowing users to choose based on their sound and feel preferences for an optimal keyboard setup.

Conclusion

To conclude, the decision between the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and typing needs. If you appreciate a smooth, effortless feel with minimal finger fatigue, especially during prolonged typing sessions, the HMX Swift may be your best choice thanks to its light actuation force of 42 grams and feathery, easy-to-press design. This can make tasks like gaming or lengthy writing much more comfortable and enjoyable. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more dynamic typing experience characterized by depth in sound and potentially more of that classic linear feel, the Cherry MX Orange switch could be the ideal fit for you. While it lacks specific bottom-out force data, its reputation for smoothness and reliability among enthusiasts makes it a solid contender. In essence, choose the Swift for a lighter, more responsive touch and the MX Orange if you desire a nostalgic, solid typing experience with that deeper sound profile. Weighing these attributes against your personal preferences will guide you to the switch that best enhances your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Orange Linear

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

Learn more

HMX Swift Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more