Haimu Orange Sea vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Haimu Orange Sea and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Haimu Orange Sea and the HMX Swift mechanical keyboard switches, users will find notable distinctions that may influence their typing or gaming experiences. The Haimu Orange Sea switches are renowned for their impeccably smooth typing feel and neutral sound signature, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a more subdued and refined experience. In contrast, the HMX Swift switches stand out with their deeper sound profile, attributed to their full nylon housings, which create a unique clacky yet smooth experience. With a delicate 42g actuation force, the Swift also offers a light touch that many users find appealing for both gaming and typing. While the Orange Sea provides a balanced, quiet efficiency, the Swift adds a bit of personality with its distinct sound. 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
37g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Haimu Orange Sea and the HMX Swift, a notable distinction lies in their top housing materials. The Orange Sea employs polycarbonate for its top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it particularly suitable for those seeking a vibrant auditory experience, especially when utilizing RGB lighting due to its translucency. Conversely, the HMX Swift utilizes nylon for its top housing, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer characteristics of nylon absorb more sound, generating a duller, rounder auditory experience. Thus, the two switches will inherently produce different sound profiles based on their top housing materials, impacting the overall typing experience.
When examining the bottom housings, both the Haimu Orange Sea and HMX Swift utilize nylon, resulting in similarities between them. As a classic switch housing material, nylon in the bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile that effectively absorbs sound, facilitating a muted, rounded typing experience. Since both switches rely on nylon for their bottom housing, users can expect a consistent auditory experience that focuses on the plushness of the sound, regardless of the differences present in the top housing materials. The nylon’s impact on the overall bottom-out sound and feel can be appreciated in both switches, enhancing their shared characteristics despite varying top housing designs.
Ultimately, the different material choices in the top housing of the Haimu Orange Sea and HMX Swift lead to distinct sound profiles that may appeal to varying preferences among users. The key to achieving similarity in their performance lies in their shared nylon bottom housing, which creates a foundation of softer, muffled sound. While the Orange Sea will provide a brighter sound when keys are released due to its polycarbonate top housing, the overall typing experience will be uniformly plush and cushioned through the nylon base in both switches. In essence, while the materials may differ fundamentally, each housing contributes to a unique yet complementary auditory experience when combined, allowing users to tailor their keyboard feel to their liking.
Weight
When comparing the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch to the HMX Swift linear switch, both are categorized as light switches, but they do differ in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Orange Sea requires an actuation force of 37 grams and reaches a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Swift demands a slightly higher actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Orange Sea the lighter option, appealing to users who favor prolonged typing sessions with less strain. In contrast, the Swift provides a firmer push feel with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, which might be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Consequently, while both switches cater to users looking for light forces, the distinct weights may influence user preference based on their typing style and comfort needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, the Orange Sea has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Swift features a longer travel distance of 3.9 mm. This means that users of the Orange Sea can expect a more responsive feel, which is often preferred by gamers seeking quicker response times. On the other hand, the Swift's 3.9 mm travel distance may cater to individuals who enjoy a deeper, more substantial keystroke, providing a different tactile experience. Thus, if a user prioritizes speed and responsiveness, the Orange Sea would be the better choice, whereas the HMX Swift may be favored for a more traditional and hearty typing experience.
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 Haimu Orange Sea comes in at $2.79 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
When it comes to sound, the Haimu Orange Sea switch features a neutral sound signature, providing a balanced auditory experience that doesn't overwhelm the senses. This makes it suitable for environments where noise could be a concern, as it won't create excessive distraction. In contrast, the HMX Swift switch delivers a deeper sound profile, characterized by a clacky sound that produces sharp and snappy auditory feedback. This clacky nature contributes to a more vibrant and engaging typing experience, appealing to users who appreciate pronounced acoustics from their keyboards. Ultimately, while the Orange Sea is more subdued, the Swift offers a lively and dynamic auditory experience.
In terms of feel, both switches boast impressively smooth typing experiences, though they cater to slightly different preferences. The Orange Sea is known for its impeccably smooth type feel, making it a great choice for users who prioritize seamless key presses. The HMX Swift, on the other hand, features a combination of tactile qualities that includes an easy-to-press action with gentle resistance, making typing feel light and effortless. The Swift also has a feathery texture, significantly reducing finger fatigue during prolonged use. Users will find the bouncy nature of the Swift provides a delightful rebound during key presses, while its creamy sensation offers a buttery smoothness, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across keys. Overall, the Swift may appeal more to those who enjoy a lively key feel.
In conclusion, both the Haimu Orange Sea and HMX Swift linear switches provide a smooth typing experience, yet they diverge in sound and tactile feedback. The Orange Sea’s neutral sound and seamless feel make it a solid choice for users preferring a quieter, more unobtrusive experience. In contrast, the Swift’s distinct clacky sound and a rich array of tactile sensations cater to those who enjoy a more vibrant auditory and physical feedback. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on whether you value a balanced auditory presence or a lively acoustics alongside a dynamic typing feel.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, your personal preference and intended usage will guide your choice. If you prioritize a smooth and neutral typing feel, along with a lighter bottom-out force of 45 grams, the Orange Sea will serve you well—especially if you desire a quieter experience that doesn't sacrifice performance. It's an excellent option for both typing and gaming, offering an effortless, comfortable experience. Conversely, if you favor a slightly firmer touch with a bottom-out force of 50 grams and enjoy a distinct, clacky sound profile, then the HMX Swift is the switch for you. Its deeper sound signature and easy-to-press design make it perfect for extended typing sessions and gaming alike, where you'll appreciate the lively and responsive feedback of the keys. Ultimately, evaluate your typing habits and the environment in which you’ll be using your keyboard; this will help you choose the switch that enhances your experience the most.
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