Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry, a tactile switch, and the HMX Swift, a linear switch. The NovelKeys Blueberry is beloved for its sharp tactile bump, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a pronounced tactile feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Swift stands out for its smooth linear feel and deeper sound profile, thanks to its full nylon housings. While the Blueberry switch is categorized as 'Snappy', 'Buttery', and 'Low-pitched', the Swift switch is characterized as 'Clacky', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Feathery'. Each switch offers a unique typing experience based on individual preferences. 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
55g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
3.00 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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the HMX Swift both contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile in their respective switches. The POM top housing of the Blueberry and the nylon top housing of the Swift both create a more muted sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a unique typing experience. While the Blueberry's POM bottom housing and the Swift's nylon bottom housing also contribute to the sound profile, the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Both the NovelKeys Blueberry and the HMX Swift utilize classic switch housing materials, with the Blueberry featuring POM housings and the Swift utilizing nylon housings. The softer nature of nylon compared to harder plastics allows for a more rounded and duller sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience. Additionally, the bottom housing material of each switch plays a crucial role in determining the tactile feedback and sound produced when pressing down on a key.
While the housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the HMX Swift may differ in terms of POM and nylon, respectively, both switches are designed to create a pleasing and unique sound profile. The characteristics of each housing material are carefully balanced to provide a satisfying typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound upon releasing a key. Overall, whether it's POM or nylon, users can expect a deep, muted, and full sound profile from both the Blueberry and the Swift switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is evident that the NovelKeys Blueberry requires a heavier force for both actuation and bottoming out compared to the Swift. The NovelKeys Blueberry has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, while the Swift has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. The heavier forces of the NovelKeys Blueberry provide a more substantial typing experience, preferred by those who enjoy a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the lighter forces of the Swift make it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch is 4.0 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. In this case, the NovelKeys Blueberry has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Swift. Generally, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for quicker response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth when typing. Both switches fall within a traditional range of travel distances, with the NovelKeys Blueberry being on the longer side and the HMX Swift being slightly shorter. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Blueberry for $6.25.
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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches offer a low-pitched and resonant typing experience, creating a bass-heavy and mellow tone with a clean and sharp sound profile. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switches produce a clacky sound, with a sharp and snappy tone that is crisp, bright, and percussive. Both switches will deliver distinct auditory experiences, with the Blueberry switches leaning towards a deeper sound and the Swift switches providing a brighter sound signature due to their nylon housings.
Moving on to the feel, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches are known for their snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff characteristics, offering a responsive and immersive typing sensation with a noticeable tactile bump. In contrast, the HMX Swift switches provide an easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy typing experience, with a silky smoothness and a delicate 42g actuation force. Both switches excel in providing a comfortable and effortless typing experience, with the Blueberry switches catering to those who prefer a more tactile feel, while the Swift switches offer a lighter actuation force for reduced finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switches and the HMX Swift linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Blueberry switches are characterized by a sharp tactile bump and a lower-than-average sound frequency, the Swift switches stand out with their delicate actuation force and smooth keystrokes. Depending on your preference for sound profile and typing experience, both switches provide excellent options in the mechanical keyboard market. Ultimately, choosing between the two will come down to your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider your preference for typing feel and sound. If you enjoy a sharp tactile bump and a lower frequency sound, the NovelKeys Blueberry may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a silky smooth typing experience with a lighter actuation force and a deeper sound profile, the HMX Swift could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences, so choose the switch that best suits your needs and enhances your overall typing experience.
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