Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. HMX SU

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the HMX SU can greatly influence your typing and gaming experience. The Cherry MX Speed Silver is engineered for gamers seeking lightning-fast responses, offering a linear action with low spring resistance that allows for instant key registration, making it a critical asset in high-stakes environments where every millisecond counts. Its textured, thocky sound profile adds an engaging acoustic component without interfering with rapid keystrokes. In contrast, the HMX SU, with its full PA12 housing and T5 stem, provides a unique typing sensation and a subtler, deep sound profile, appealing to those who prioritize a balanced auditory experience over sheer speed. While the Speed Silver is coveted for its competitive edge, the HMX SU might attract users looking for a satisfying feel and sound when typing. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Cherry MX Speed Silver Linear

HMX SU Linear

$5.90

$4.00 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the HMX SU, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This shared material choice results in a similar performance characteristic: both switches elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The nylon construction, being relatively softer than harder plastics, contributes to sound absorption, creating a distinctively duller and rounder sound when keys are pressed or released. As such, users can expect a comparable auditory experience from both switches, reflecting the classic properties associated with nylon.

Examining the bottom housing of both switches, the use of nylon continues to play a crucial role in shaping the tactile experience and sound profile. In both the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the HMX SU, the nylon material helps to soften the bottom-out sound when a key is fully pressed. Since the bottom housing affects the impact during keystrokes, users will feel a similar sensation when activating these switches. This shared material choice suggests that key feel and acoustics will be consistent across both models, allowing for an enhanced typing experience that emphasizes a quieter environment.

However, while the similarities in material lead to comparable sound profiles and tactile feedback, it's important to consider how these qualities interrelate. Although both switches feature the same nylon construction, any differences in their internal design—such as spring strength or switch actuation mechanisms—could still influence performance nuances. Even with identical housing materials, the overall typing experience might vary slightly, but the foundational effects of the nylon housings will yield a shared core sound character and impact sensation. Thus, regardless of any minor differences, users can expect a harmonized sensory experience from both the MX Speed Silver and the HMX SU, rooted in their common use of nylon.

Weight

When comparing the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch to the HMX SU linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning that users will experience a similar effort needed to trigger a keystroke on either switch. However, the HMX SU differentiates itself with a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Speed Silver is unknown. This means that the HMX SU switch requires a bit more force to fully bottom out, resulting in a heavier overall feel compared to the MX Speed Silver, which could appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Conversely, the MX Speed Silver's lack of defined bottom out force implies it may offer a lighter sensation when bottoming out. Therefore, for those who prioritize a lighter key feel for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Cherry MX Speed Silver would be the preferable option, while the HMX SU would cater to those who enjoy a firmer push during use.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, it becomes evident that the Speed Silver offers a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HMX SU features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference of 0.2 mm can affect the feel and responsiveness of each switch. Gamers, who often seek quicker response times, may prefer the Cherry MX Speed Silver due to its shorter actuation, which provides a faster key response. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial feedback when typing might lean towards the HMX SU, as its longer travel distance could deliver a more satisfying tactile experience. Ultimately, your preference will dictate which switch best suits your needs based on their respective travel distances.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is characterized by a thocky quality, which creates a deep and rich auditory feedback with each key press. This low-pitched sound contributes to an overall more satisfying typing experience, reminiscent of a soft thud or knock. Such auditory characteristics can be particularly appealing to users who appreciate a deeper resonance while they type or game. On the other hand, details regarding the sound of the HMX SU linear switch are not specified. It's important to note that the overall sound experience will depend on other factors such as the keyboard construction and choice of keycaps.

When it comes to feel, the MX Speed Silver switches exhibit a textured sensation, which can add a tactile element to the typing experience. This texture may create noticeable friction when the switch is engaged, making it a point of preference for users who enjoy a bit of resistance while typing. In contrast, there is no information available about the feel of the HMX SU linear switch. Without this data, it's difficult to make a direct comparison.

In summary, while both the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the HMX SU linear switch cater to specific user preferences, they diverge considerably in terms of the information available. The Speed Silver excels with its satisfying thocky sound and textured feel, ideal for gamers seeking rapid response and auditory satisfaction. Unfortunately, the lack of detailed feedback regarding the HMX SU limits our ability to draw parallels or conclusions on its performance. If you are inclined towards faster response times and a rich sound profile, the MX Speed Silver may be more suitable, whereas further information on the HMX SU will be needed to evaluate its strengths.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the HMX SU linear switches, your personal preferences and intended use should guide your choice. If you're primarily a gamer or someone who values speed and quick responsiveness, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is ideal for you. With its linear action and low spring resistance, this switch caters specifically to fast-paced environments, ensuring that each keystroke registers instantly. Its thocky, low-pitched sound profile also adds a satisfying auditory experience while typing or gaming, which can be enjoyable for many users. On the other hand, if you're more inclined towards typing and appreciate a deeper, richer sound without compromising on the tactile experience, the HMX SU could be your go-to choice. Although it requires a slightly heavier bottom-out force, this switch offers a unique feel and sound that might cater well to your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should depend on whether you prioritize rapid activation for gaming or a pleasant auditory and tactile experience for general typing.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Speed Silver Linear

$5.90

$4.00 per 10

Learn more

HMX SU Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more