Cherry MX Purple RGB vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, it's essential to understand the distinct qualities that different switches offer. The Cherry MX Purple RGB switch is renowned for its tactile feedback, providing users with a refined experience through a short, medium-strength bump. Developed in collaboration with keyboard enthusiast Glarses, this switch appeals to those who enjoy a responsive feel while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switch is characterized by its smooth linear action, featuring a delicate 42g actuation force that many users find easy to press. Known for its deeper sound profile due to the full nylon housing, the Swift combines a silky smoothness with a feathery touch that enhances the overall typing experience. While the MX Purple may cater to those who appreciate tactile feedback, the Swift stands out for users who prefer a quieter, more streamlined input method. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Purple RGB and the HMX Swift both utilize nylon as their housing material, which is notable for enhancing the auditory and tactile experience during typing. The nylon top housing in both switches contributes to a deep and full sound profile, allowing for a more enjoyable typing experience. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This characteristic is particularly beneficial for users who prefer a more muted acoustic response when typing, making both switches well-suited for those looking for a quieter typing experience.
In addition to their top housings, both the MX Purple RGB and HMX Swift feature nylon bottom housings as well. This shared material further establishes the overall sound profile of the switches, as the bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down. Again, the properties of nylon contribute to a deeper sound, ultimately creating a cohesive acoustic experience throughout the typing cycle. Since both switches employ nylon for their top and bottom housings, users can expect a consistent sound signature, ensuring similar auditory feedback regardless of which switch is chosen.
While both the MX Purple RGB and HMX Swift may utilize the same nylon materials for their switch housings, it's essential to recognize how each housing type influences the overall typing experience. The bottom housing primarily affects the feel and sound when the switch is bottomed out, while the top housing influences the sound on release. Since both switches utilize nylon in both housings, it can be inferred that those seeking a balanced and harmonious typing experience will find comparable results between the two. Ultimately, users can anticipate a similar deep and full sound profile across both switch types due to their shared nylon housing materials.
Weight
The Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch exhibit differences in their actuation forces and bottom-out forces, which cater to different user preferences. The MX Purple RGB has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Swift requires a slightly lighter actuation force of 42 grams. This minor difference makes the Swift a more suitable option for users who prefer a light touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Purple is unknown, while the HMX Swift has a specified bottom-out force of 50 grams, indicating that it provides a firmer feedback when fully pressed down. For those who enjoy a heavier feel, the HMX Swift is the better choice due to its defined bottom-out force, despite its lighter actuation. In contrast, users seeking a balance between tactile feedback and lighter actuation might find the Cherry MX Purple RGB appealing, though its bottom out force remains an unknown factor.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch features a travel distance of 3.9 mm. This places the Cherry MX Purple at a slightly longer distance compared to the Swift, making it ideal for users who prefer a more pronounced feel when pressing keys. The additional travel distance of the MX Purple can provide a sense of tactile feedback that some might find more satisfying, especially for typing, whereas the shorter 3.9 mm travel of the Swift may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times. Although the difference is minimal, those who favor faster actuation and responsiveness might lean towards the Swift, while those who prefer a more traditional and tactile experience would likely opt for the Cherry MX Purple.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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 Cherry MX Purple RGB switches provide a crisp auditory feedback that is characteristic of many tactile switches. Their refined tactile experience does not compromise on the pleasant acoustic presence that many enthusiasts appreciate. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switches are known for their deeper sound profile, which interestingly contrasts with the high-pitched sounds that are often linked to typical HMX switches. This deeper tone is primarily attributed to the full nylon housings, resulting in a more robust sound that can enhance the overall typing experience for those who prefer a less high-pitched auditory signature.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches deliver a defined tactile bump that strikes a balance between noticeable feedback and ease of activation. However, the HMX Swift switches stand out with their exceptionally light 42g actuation force, making them incredibly easy to press. Their design promotes a feathery and silky touch, allowing for a buttery and smooth typing experience that requires minimal exertion. The switches also exhibit a bouncy characteristic, providing a spring-like feedback that adds to the sensation of liveliness when typing. This combination of qualities makes the Swifts especially suitable for extended typing sessions, reducing fatigue significantly.
In conclusion, both switch options cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The Cherry MX Purple RGB offers a refined tactile experience alongside a pleasing sound profile, while the HMX Swift switches shine with their deep sound and ultra-light feel, which enhances comfort during usage. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize the tactile feedback and sound quality of the MX Purple RGB or the effortless, smooth, and lively characteristics of the HMX Swift. Each switch will bring its own unique qualities, ensuring that you can find a satisfying typing experience tailored to your needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch ultimately comes down to your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you appreciate the satisfying feedback of tactile switches and are looking for a refined typing experience, the MX Purple RGB is an excellent option. Its medium-strength bump provides a compelling tactile sensation without requiring excessive force, making it suitable for both gamers and typists who enjoy that tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer something lighter and more effortless, the HMX Swift linear switch is your go-to choice. Its gentle actuation force and creamy, silky feel make it incredibly comfortable for long typing sessions, reducing finger fatigue and allowing for rapid key presses—ideal for fast-paced gaming or extended work periods. Additionally, if you favor deeper sound profiles over harsher, high-pitched tones, the Swift’s unique acoustic characteristics may further enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, aligning the choice of switch with your personal preferences for feedback, sound, and actuation force will ensure that you enjoy every keystroke to the fullest.
Mentioned in this article
